Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly house hunting in the Cotswolds, a posh rural area in southwest England, for an extended period of residence. The move comes as the couple aims to bring their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, closer to their grandfather, King Charles.
According to royal commentator Tom Sykes, Harry had expressed interest in house hunting in the Cotswolds earlier this year. Sykes told Page Six that Harry has "happy memories" of the area, where he spent much of his childhood with his father and brother, Prince William, at Highgrove House. The couple also previously rented a country home in the Cotswolds shortly after their 2018 wedding.
Sources confirmed to Page Six that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex plan to move back to the UK by the end of the month for "an extended period." Their decision is partly motivated by a desire for their children to build stronger relationships with Charles, who revealed his cancer diagnosis in 2024. Charles was reportedly made aware of their upcoming move on a Sunday prior to the reports.
The Cotswolds is known for attracting A-listers and is characterized by its affluent and scenic countryside. If the couple secures a property in the area, their residence would be approximately two hours away from Prince William and Kate Middleton, who live in Windsor. Relations between the brothers have been strained since Harry and Markle stepped down from royal duties in 2020 and moved to California.
An insider indicated that Prince William is reportedly still not speaking to his younger brother, and their estrangement persists following comments made in interviews and in Harry's 2023 memoir, "Spare."
Despite ongoing tensions with William, there appear to be signs of reconciliation with their father. Harry, Meghan, and their children reunited with King Charles and Queen Camilla for the first time in four years last month, suggesting an effort to mend family ties.