Prince Harry and Meghan are reportedly preparing for a significant life change, packing up their Montecito, California, residence for an imminent return to the United Kingdom. The move, described by a friend as happening at a "cracking pace," is primarily motivated by Prince Harry's wish for his children, Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, to receive a British education.
Sources close to the couple indicate that the idea of sending their children to UK schools has been discussed for years, with serious consideration given over the past year, including obtaining prospectuses and speaking with headteachers. The plan is for Archie to begin as a day boarder at a leading private preparatory school in September, with Lilibet joining the pre-preparatory or infants' school of the same institution. This move marks a "15-year plan," with Harry intending to remain in the UK for at least the next decade to be actively involved in his children's lives, including attending their weekend sporting events.
While Harry is expected to be the primary at-home parent during school terms, Meghan is anticipated to travel between the UK and California, where her business ventures, including her lifestyle brand As Ever and their production company Archewell, are based. Archewell has offices in Los Angeles and continues to develop film and TV projects, with the couple maintaining a "first look" deal with Netflix.
Friends state that the relocation is not driven by a desire for royal status or engagements, but by Harry's commitment to raising their children within British culture. King Charles was reportedly informed of their intentions prior to the news breaking, and Prince William has been aware for approximately six months, dispelling any notion of the family being blindsided.
Rumors have circulated regarding the state of the Sussexes' marriage, with some reports suggesting the move is an attempt to reconcile. However, a friend of the couple has refuted these claims, stating their marriage is strong and the decision was mutually agreed upon as being in the best interest of their children.
In the interim, the family is expected to stay with friends or family while house hunting for a country property near the Cotswolds, with an estimated budget of around £8 million. Harry's connection to the Spencer family is noted, with suggestions that embracing this side of his heritage may help in reconciling with his own family in the UK.
Questions regarding security and its funding remain, with Harry reportedly finding the cost of living in California, estimated at $2 million annually for security, to be substantial. The move to establish a new household in the UK is expected to require significant financial resources.