Prince Harry and Meghan are planning an extended return to the United Kingdom with their two children this autumn, but they will not resume their roles as working members of the Royal Family.
According to a person close to the Sussexes, their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, are expected to begin attending British schools in September. The family plans to live at a private residence outside London that is not associated with the Royal Family.
The couple will reportedly retain their home in Montecito, California, as well as their holiday property in Portugal. Meghan is also expected to continue running her lifestyle business, As Ever, while Harry plans to spend more time supporting his UK-based charitable organisations.
King Charles III was reportedly informed of the family’s plans on Sunday. The development comes amid signs that Harry has been seeking to improve his relationship with his father, who is undergoing treatment for cancer.
Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties in 2020 and subsequently relocated to California, where they established commercial partnerships and pursued independent projects.
After stepping away from royal duties, Harry and Meghan spoke publicly about their experiences, raising concerns about royal life and alleging that Meghan received insufficient support from palace officials.
Relations were further strained by Harry’s legal disputes with British media organisations over alleged unlawful information gathering and privacy violations. He has lost several cases, including a recent legal battle involving the publisher of the Daily Mail.
The Duke of Sussex has also challenged the British government’s decision regarding his security arrangements when visiting the UK. Harry has argued that he and his family require police protection because of the risks associated with his royal status.
Despite the disputes, Harry has repeatedly expressed a desire for reconciliation with his family. During a BBC interview, he said he wanted to end the ongoing conflict and spend more time with his father.
Harry visited Britain last month for several charity engagements, with Meghan and the children joining him for part of the trip. They also spent time with King Charles at his Highgrove estate.
The latest plans could give the Sussexes greater opportunities to maintain family connections while continuing their independent lives outside the formal structure of the monarchy.
