A Return Nobody Saw Coming
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle are leaving California to settle back in the United Kingdom, according to reports from The Daily Telegraph and People magazine. The news broke on August 20, 2026 and has sent shockwaves through the royal family: King Charles III was reportedly informed just that Sunday, and Prince William is said to be ‘furious’ about the move.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex won’t be returning to official royal duties. They’ll remain private citizens, but will live in the European country with their children, Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5.
Why Now? The Reasons Behind the Move
The BBC spoke with people close to the couple, who said the decision was made recently. A visit to the UK in July was key: Harry, Meghan, and the children spent time with the King at Highgrove and with the Spencer family. The little ones met their uncles and cousins. Also, they’ve already chosen schools for Archie and Lilibet; the term starts the second week of September in England, so the family could be back within the next 10 days.
Other factors experts are considering:
- 👑 The King’s Health: Charles III is still undergoing treatment for cancer, though it’s in remission, and the desire to spend time with him weighs heavily.
- 🕊️ Diana’s Memory: The visit to Althorp, the Spencer family estate, was emotionally significant.
- 🇺🇸 US Political Pressure: Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized Meghan, and immigration tensions—Harry had to defend his visa status—may have played a role.
- 💼 Business: They’ve renewed a multi-year deal with Netflix, but on less lucrative terms than the US$100 million of 2022.
Where Will They Live?
The exact location hasn’t been announced yet, but sources point to the countryside: the Cotswolds or Northampton, near Althorp. They won’t be in London. They’re reportedly looking for an area with top-tier private schools.
Security: The Big Unknown
When Harry lost his legal battle against the Home Office in May 2025 to get state-funded police protection in the UK, he said he couldn’t see a way to bring his wife and children back. Now the issue is front and center again: It’s unclear if the private security team will relocate with them or if there’ll be a government shift in posture. Prime Minister Andy Burnham only wished them well.
What About the Family Feud?
The BBC reports that the relationship with Prince William remains broken. The heir has never forgiven Harry for his memoir Spare and the Oprah Winfrey interview. While the King is grateful for the chance to see more of his grandchildren, there’s no expectation that they’ll return to royal duties.
The British public is a huge part of this story. Harry’s favorability rating has sunk to 27% and Meghan’s to just 18%, according to data cited by El País. Many Brits still resent the couple’s departure to California six years ago. Yet, the move has already generated massive media buzz—and mixed reactions.
Archie and Lilibet: Their New School
The school names haven’t been disclosed for privacy, but it won’t be a boarding school or the same school as their cousins (Lambrook). Speculation points to Ludgrove, where Harry himself studied (fees around €16,875 per term), or Bedales, a co-ed school offering day and boarding options. Education Secretary Lucy Powell welcomed the news as a “strong endorsement of our education system”.
A New Chapter for the Crown
Royal historian Richard Fitzwilliams warned this “creates a crisis in the monarchy, but the institution has poor answers when you don’t know what to expect.” So far, King Charles III hasn’t spoken publicly, but sources indicate he’s pleased to have the chance to see his son and grandchildren more often in private.
This story is far from over—will this be a permanent return or a longer stay? As one of the couple’s friends put it: “I’m just thrilled to have them here.”
Sources: The Daily Telegraph, People, BBC, El País. The information reflects the original report of August 20, 2026.