Prince Harry and Meghan are set to return to the UK, with their children starting school in September. Learn about the King's response and the couple's plans.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are making preparations to relocate back to the United Kingdom. This move comes after a period of living in California, following their decision to step back from royal duties in early 2026. The couple’s children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, are set to begin attending a British school in September.
The King was informed of this decision last weekend and has welcomed the opportunity to spend more time with his grandchildren in a private capacity. However, there are no current plans for Prince Harry or Meghan to resume their roles as working royals.
The King’s Reaction and Family Dynamics
The Sussexes visited the King at his Highgrove home in Gloucestershire in July this year, but the move was not discussed during that time. The King was reportedly unaware of the couple’s plans before last weekend.
The Prince and Princess of Wales have also been informed of the Sussexes’ intentions.
This relocation marks a significant development in the family’s dynamics, as it has been over four years since the King last saw his grandchildren in person. The couple’s last joint visit to the UK was in 2026 for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.
Security Concerns and Legal Battles
Security for the couple has been a contentious issue, with Prince Harry previously stating that concerns over safety have hindered his ability to bring his family to the UK. During his July visit, the duke promoted the Invictus Games, which will be hosted in Birmingham next year. David Wiseman, chief programmes and strategy officer at the Invictus Games Foundation, expressed his delight at having Prince Harry back in the country.
“I will be really pleased to have him back in the country. Moving is stressful for anyone so I hope it all goes well and the children settle well at school,” Wiseman added. He also noted that the move had taken everyone by surprise but would greatly benefit the foundation.
Prince Harry’s July visit was overshadowed by his High Court loss in a privacy case against Associated Newspapers, the publisher of the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday. The duke has been vocal about the press intrusion into his relationship with Meghan, stating in court that “They’ve made my wife’s life an absolute misery.”
The Future of the Sussexes in the UK
As the Sussexes prepare for their move, the focus remains on their children’s education and the couple’s integration back into British life. While they will maintain their status as private individuals, their return signifies a new chapter in their relationship with the royal family and the public.
The couple’s decision to return to the UK comes amidst ongoing discussions about their security arrangements. A Home Office spokesperson reiterated that decisions on the security of royals are taken by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec), and the UK government’s protective security system is “rigorous and proportionate.”
As the Sussexes navigate this transition, the world watches to see how this new phase will unfold for the royal family.
