Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly returning to Britain with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, to begin a new life in the country. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to arrive today after flying privately from California.
This move marks a significant development six years after the couple stepped down from royal duties and purchased a home in Montecito. Sources suggest they plan to reside in a non-royal residence outside of London. Both Archie and Lilibet have reportedly been enrolled in UK schools and are expected to begin classes next month.
The Sussexes' return comes a month after they visited their grandfather, King Charles, at his Highgrove home in July, marking the first time their children had seen him in four years. While the couple did not appear to raise the prospect of a permanent return to the UK during that visit, the King was informed of their relocation plans three days before the news became public.
Some reports indicate that their stay in the UK could be temporary, potentially lasting only through the autumn, with the family maintaining their residences in Montecito and Portugal. The couple has not officially commented on the reports, with a spokesperson telling the BBC that it was not something they would comment on.
Meanwhile, Meghan Markle has launched a new product for her lifestyle brand, As Ever, with the unveiling of "Spiced Apple Butter." The product, described as a blend of "orchard apples and fragrant spices," is being released in time for the fall season. Markle also shared a lighthearted moment on Instagram, reacting to a tea towel with a humorous message about chicken tenders, while their chickens remain in California.
Reports have also touched upon the dynamics within the royal family, with suggestions that the King desires to see his estranged sons, Harry and Prince William, reconcile over time. This comes in the context of ongoing estrillment between the brothers, which reportedly intensified following Prince Philip's funeral in 2021. Harry's autobiography detailed a plea from their father during a tense meeting at the time, asking them not to make his final years miserable. The relationship between the brothers is said to have further deteriorated following the Sussexes' departure from royal duties, their subsequent interviews, and Harry's memoir.