Meghan Markle & Prince Harry Return to UK—Kids Will Miss California

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have reportedly announced plans to return to England this fall, after spending the last four years living in Montecito, California. The move would allow their son, Prince Archie, and daughter, Princess Lilibet, to enroll in British schools as they prepare for the new academic year.

The couple’s relocation comes after a quiet period of business ventures and a legal battle over security arrangements that ended in court.

The couple stepped down from senior royal duties in 2020 and set up a home in the Los Angeles area, where they managed their own production company and lifestyle brand.

In earlier interviews, Meghan explained that she would handle school pick‑ups for her children because the intense media presence in London made it difficult for the family to maintain privacy. The decision to stay in the U.S. was driven by concerns about the safety and well‑being of their young heirs.

While neither Markle nor Prince Harry has issued a public statement about the move, several reports from major outlets claim that they intend to settle back in England before the school year begins.

The reports also note that the family will keep their Montecito property, allowing for a flexible arrangement should future circumstances change.

## Background & Context

The royal couple’s departure from the UK began in 2020, following public comments about their desire to protect their children from relentless media scrutiny. Over the next few years, they pursued entrepreneurial projects—Markle’s lifestyle label and a joint production company—while remaining absent from official engagements.

Their legal dispute over enhanced security measures was ultimately dismissed by the court, leaving the family without additional protective provisions.

In late 2023, Meghan and Prince Harry took their children on a short visit to England, the first time Archie and Lilibet had been in the country in four years. The trip included a private gathering at the royal estate, where the grandchildren spent time with King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Sources close to the family noted that discussions during the visit were limited to family matters and that no topics related to their legal case were broached.

The announcement of a return home follows a period of speculation about the couple’s future. Earlier this year, Prince Harry expressed in an interview that he could not foresee a comfortable return to England with his family.

Those remarks, coupled with the recent reports, suggest a shift in strategy that prioritizes their children’s schooling and stability.

## What People Are Saying

Reactions among royal watchers have been mixed. Some commentators argue that the move will ease the public’s scrutiny on the young royals and give them a more normal upbringing. Others see it as a return to the traditional role of the Sussex family within the monarchy, potentially opening doors for future involvement in official duties.

Within the media, analysts note that a relocation could signal a new phase in the couple’s relationship with royal protocol. The decision to retain their California residence provides flexibility, allowing the family to maintain ties across both countries.

Some observers point out that the move may also affect ongoing business projects and streaming deals, which are largely based in the U.S.

Public sentiment on social media has remained largely supportive, with many expressing hope that Archie and Lilibet will benefit from a British education.

A small segment of fans, however, continues to voice concerns about the influence of media coverage on the children’s development, echoing earlier comments from Meghan about safeguarding privacy.

## What Happens Next

The next steps for the Sussex family involve logistical arrangements such as finding a suitable residence in England and enrolling their children in local schools.

The couple will also need to navigate the administrative aspects of moving a household across international borders, including shipping personal effects and managing visa or residency requirements for their children.

Because no official statement has been released, details about the exact timeline remain uncertain. It is expected that any formal announcement from the couple will appear through a traditional media channel, potentially accompanied by a brief press release outlining key dates and expectations.

Meanwhile, the Sussex family’s ongoing business ventures—particularly the streaming platform and lifestyle brand—will likely continue to operate remotely from either location. Their legal team may also review any outstanding matters related to their prior security lawsuit, ensuring compliance with court decisions.

In short, the reported return to England marks a significant shift for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, one that prioritizes their children’s education while preserving their business interests.

As the family prepares for the transition, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this move shapes their future role within the royal landscape.