In a surprising turn of events, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have announced their intention to return to the United Kingdom. On Wednesday, 26 August 2026, they are expected to arrive in England, bringing their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, along with them. This decision comes just days after news broke that the couple was transitioning back to Harry’s homeland.
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Details regarding their new residence and the schools their children will attend remain undisclosed. Sources have indicated that their private home will not be official or royal and that they intend to keep the location confidential. Harry, aged 41, and Meghan, aged 45, are anticipated to land in the UK imminently, a sentiment echoed by various reputable media outlets.
In light of the couple’s plans, it has been reported that King Charles was informed about their move on Sunday, 16 August. The King has reportedly welcomed the chance to see more of his son and daughter-in-law in a private, personal capacity. The Sussexes will also maintain their home in Montecito, California, alongside a vacation property in Portugal, allowing them to balance their time between the UK and their existing residences.
It is important to note that this relocation does not signal a return to royal duties for Harry and Meghan. The pair stepped back from their roles as working members of the royal family in early 2020, before settling in California. Importantly, King Charles has made it clear that there will be no alteration to Harry and Meghan’s current status as private individuals outside of royal responsibilities, respecting an agreement established with the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Establishing a base in the UK is expected to enable Harry to engage more closely with charitable efforts. He is likely to dedicate his time to organisations such as Scotty’s Little Soldiers and WellChild, as well as the Invictus Games community, with the next Games scheduled to take place in Birmingham in 2027. Meanwhile, Meghan will continue her work with her lifestyle brand, As Ever, and pursue various forthcoming projects.
Interestingly, sources suggest that the couple did not discuss their plans with King Charles during their recent reunion at Highgrove. However, hints about returning to the UK may have been dropped as far back as September 2025. At that time, Harry spoke with singer Joss Stone during the WellChild Awards. Stone, who had recently relocated back to the UK from Nashville, Tennessee, shared with Hello! that Harry expressed a keen interest in her experience and the educational possibilities available in the UK for children.
This move back to England appears to be a significant step for Harry, particularly after years of strained family relationships. Although he has been working to mend his relationship with King Charles, reports indicate that his connection with his older brother, Prince William, remains fraught. A close source revealed that despite hopes for improved relations, contact between the brothers has been minimal and distant.
In a previous interview, Harry expressed his desire for reconciliation within his family, stating, “I would love reconciliation with my family. There’s no point in continuing to fight anymore.” As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex embark on this new chapter of their lives, it remains unclear how their re-entry into the UK will impact their relationships, particularly with other high-profile family members.
The couple’s decision to move back may reflect their desire to provide their children with the experience of growing up in close proximity to family and friends, as well as a sense of belonging in a familiar environment. As Harry and Meghan’s return to the UK unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how this new arrangement plays out and whether it heralds a new era of family dynamics.