Prince Harry, Meghan, and their children, Archie and Lilibet, have reportedly relocated to the UK from California for an extended stay, according to multiple sources close to the Duke of Sussex. The family is said to have arrived approximately ten days ago via private jet.
Unofficially, news of their presence has spread rapidly in the Cotswolds, their reported new area of residence. Sources indicate that the children have been enrolled in local schools, with Archie, seven, starting at a traditional British prep school and Lilibet, five, attending pre-prep at the same institution. Harry's friends suggest this move reflects his desire for his children to experience a childhood similar to his own happiest days at Ludgrove prep school.
The stated plan is for Harry to be a "full-time dad" while Meghan commutes between the Cotswolds and their Montecito home to pursue her business and media interests. However, the specifics of their new life remain fluid, partly due to the apparent haste of their decision to move.
Housing and Security Concerns
Significant questions surround their current accommodation and long-term housing plans. Insiders suggest it could take between 12 to 18 months before the Sussexes settle into a new property. They are reportedly staying on the estate of a friend, but finding a suitable home that is move-in ready, especially one with land and historical features that require complex renovations, is proving challenging. Their budget is reported to be over £8 million.
Security Re-evaluation
A major focus for Prince Harry has been regaining state-funded security, a point of contention he has pursued through numerous court battles. Until now, the couple has relied on a police phone number for assistance, as a review by the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec) concluded they were not entitled to more. However, sources indicate that a police liaison officer has been assigned, and Ravec is re-evaluating the situation given the children's new routines and the family's presence in the UK. An announcement regarding a potential amendment to their security status is anticipated in the coming weeks. While they have some security at their current location and also pay for private security, the re-evaluation suggests a shift in the approach to their protection.
Familial Relationships
Beyond security, there are hopes for an improved relationship with Harry's father, King Charles. The idea of monthly tea meetings with the King has been floated, with a desire for the children to know their grandfather better. Harry's friends express a belief that he aims to manage these arrangements without extensive involvement from the Palace.
Relations with his brother, Prince William, are described as considerably more complicated. While some friends of Harry express a hope that they might one day appear in public together, altering the narrative, other royal sources dispute the existence of current communication between the brothers.
Public Perception and Future Plans
Public opinion in Britain is reportedly resistant to Harry following recent events, but some close to him suggest a gradual shift in sentiment may be occurring. The Sussexes' commitment to their UK life is seen as crucial, though reports indicate plans to spend Christmas and potentially half-term holidays back in Montecito, alongside exploring a base in Portugal.
Meghan's friends maintain she is "100 percent all-in" with the move, though the contrast between maintaining an aspirational Californian social media presence and daily life in the UK is noted as a potential challenge. House hunting is seen as a significant project for her.
Despite the growing speculation, the family has maintained a low profile since arriving, avoiding public sightings. Harry is reportedly committed to remaining a private citizen, with plans to attend work events such as the WellChild Awards but avoiding public social media of their British life. This approach aims to adhere to an agreement made prior to their July visit, which stipulated no briefings or photographs of visits with the King.
Strategic Motivations
Some observers suggest a strategic motive behind the move, linking it to the Invictus Games in July. Author Tom Bower posits that Harry may be planning for the King to open the games, hoping a photograph with his father will facilitate a reintroduction into the Royal Family and re-establish his status in England while maintaining his American base. This remains a point of speculation, with potential challenges for the King given the involvement of servicemen in the competition.