Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are reportedly planning a permanent return to Britain with their children, Archie and Lilibet, potentially within the next two weeks. Sources close to the couple suggest this move, once considered unlikely, signifies a significant shift in their pursuit of the "American Dream."
The Sussexes are expected to arrive in the UK ahead of the September school term, with plans for their children's education having been underway since May. Archie, who will be starting Year 1, is expected to attend as a day student at a mixed preparatory school, with his sister Lilibet joining the pre-prep program at the same institution. The location is rumored to be in the Cotswolds, an area the couple has previously favored.
A friend of Prince Harry stated that the Duke "never fell out of love with Britain" but rather with the circumstances he was living in, and that these circumstances have now changed. This sentiment is echoed by others who believe the "American Dream" may not be as fulfilling as initially perceived. The same friend indicated that Meghan is "fully behind" the move, wanting to "rekindle with and reconnecting with Harry's English side."
The family's recent visit to the UK in July is understood to have been pivotal in these decisions. During the visit, they spent time with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Highgrove and also visited Althorp, the ancestral home of Harry's mother, Princess Diana. Although the children may not have reconnected with their uncle Prince William or cousins, they reportedly met other relatives on their father's side.
While the couple has been exploring property in the UK at a "serious level" and is reportedly looking to buy, they are expected to retain their Montecito mansion in California. Initially, they are said to be staying with individuals in the UK.
This potential move comes six years after Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties in 2020. Since then, their lives have been marked by significant media attention, including their interview with Oprah Winfrey, Harry's memoir "Spare," and the "Harry & Meghan" Netflix docuseries, which have reportedly strained relationships with the Royal Family. There have been legal challenges regarding Harry's security arrangements in the UK.
The timing of the potential return has also been noted by financial experts. Accountant Nimesh Shah pointed out that achieving six full tax years of non-UK residency would allow the Sussexes to manage capital gains tax rules, suggesting they have received astute tax advice. However, the Royal Household is reportedly not interested in a "half-in, half-out" arrangement regarding royal duties.
Sources indicate that personal reasons are driving the move, including Harry's desire to ground his children in the UK and impart its values. His father's recent cancer diagnosis is also said to have influenced his perspective on the importance of family time. Despite past critical remarks about Queen Camilla in his memoir, Harry has reportedly maintained regular contact with his father and stepmother via video calls with his children.