ROYAL FAMILY NEWSPrince Harry Is Returning to U.K. With Meghan Markle After Years Away Because He 'Never Really Stopped Missing Home'
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle prepared for a return to Britain as their family entered a new chapter.
Aug. 26 2026, Updated 3:01 p.m. ET
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are returning to the U.K. with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, after six years of leaving royal life behind.
"Harry never really stopped missing home. He’s missed that sense of connection and belonging. Britain is still home in many ways," a source told People.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Planned a New Life in Britain
Prince Harry showed his connection to Britain as a source revealed he 'never really stopped missing home' and his family prepared for a new chapter.
Per reports from People, the family was due to arrive in late August, with Archie and Lilibet set to begin school in September. Their new base was expected to be a private, nonroyal home outside London, although they had not purchased a property.
The move had reportedly been in the works for about a year and became more practical as the children reached school age. The couple planned to spend an extended period in Britain while keeping their Montecito, California, home.
Harry and Meghan's return did not signal a comeback to royal duties. King Charles had maintained that the couple would remain private, nonworking members of the royal family, following their decision to step back from official duties in 2020.
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s work plans also shaped their potential return.
Meghan was reportedly also in talks for a role on Netflix's The Gentlemen, which was filmed in the U.K., while Harry remained involved with his patronages and preparations for the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham.
"He will be in the weeds on it every day," a source said.
One source described the couple's approach to spending more time in Britain as gradual.
"Step by step, they want to be in the U.K.," the insider said.
"They want to have the time and give the kids the opportunity to be here," a source close to Harry said.
Per People, Harry had also shown interest in what life in Britain could offer children before the move was announced. At the WellChild Awards last September, he spoke with British singer Joss Stone about her family's return to the country.
"He asked about how we were settling back in and was genuinely interested in our move home," Stone said at the time.
"He was saying how wonderful the schools are here and how important community is for children," she added.
- Inside Prince Harry and Meghan Markle U.K. Return: Pair Have 'Secured a Private, Non-Royal Home in Britain' Outside of London
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- Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Moving Back to the U.K. After Successful King Charles Visit
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Harry's Connection to Britain Played a Major Role
Prince Harry remained connected to Britain as he missed the friendships and community he built there.
Sources in California said Harry struggled to build the same social circle and community he once had in Britain.
His relationship with his children also appeared to factor into the family's plans.
During their summer visit, Archie and Lilibet spent time with Charles at Highgrove and visited Althorp, Princess Diana's childhood home and final resting place, with members of Diana's family.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle prepared to give their children a closer connection to both sides of their family.
A source explained why Harry wanted his children to know more about their family's history.
"He wants them to understand the world he grew up in and where their family comes from," the source said.
"Meghan feels very fortunate that they’re able to give Archie and Lilibet the opportunity to experience both worlds," they concluded.
