Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Return to UK

Prince Harry and his family will leave Southern California and return to the United Kingdom, according to a source familiar with their plans. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, along with their children Archie and Lilibet, have been residing in Montecito, Santa Barbara County. King Charles was informed of their move recently, the source told NBC News.

Though the decision wasn’t discussed during the Sussexes’ July visit, King Charles welcomes the opportunity to see them more privately while noting they will remain private individuals and nonworking royal family members. Aaron Chown captures the couple in a music class at the QuestScope Youth Center in Jordan.

After stepping back from royal duties in 2020, they took refuge in California. Reports of their move emerged Wednesday night with Archie and Lilibet’s enrollment in British schools starting in September, suggesting relocation soon. They will not resume royal duties, nor reside in a royal home, preferring privacy. Security arrangements remain uncertain.

“It is our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on those arrangements, as doing so could compromise their integrity and affect individuals’ security,” a U.K. Home Office spokesperson said.

Meghan plans to continue her lifestyle brand, As Ever, while in the UK. A Sussexes spokesperson did not dispute the move reports.

Harry’s past UK visit in July had security-related issues, impacting plans to travel with family. Harry and Meghan last attended Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022. Tensions in the royal family involve Harry’s relationship with King Charles and Prince William, as aired in Harry’s memoir “Spare.”

Harry met with King Charles last year, discussing reconciliation. Desire to reconnect with family persists, highlighted by Harry’s wish to reunite in May 2025 amidst family health concerns.

India McTaggart, a royal correspondent, noted Harry’s longstanding intent to bring children back to meet King Charles and reconnect with the Spencer family. Despite strained relations with Prince William, Harry’s communication with King Charles has improved.

Returning to the UK benefits Harry’s charity initiatives, like Invictus and WellChild, and aligns with personal connections. McTaggart conveyed that Meghan supports the family’s decision, indicating their move has been considered a long-time goal.