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Harry and Meghan return to England
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Prince Harry and Meghan will move back to the UK this fall with Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5. The move signals a possible family reconciliation after years of estrangement.
Background
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex left the UK in 2020, stepping back from royal duties and later settling in California. Their return, first reported by the Daily Telegraph, comes after a period of estrangement from the royal family, though they have recently spent time with King Charles. The couple will not resume working royal roles.
How it unfolded
- 2020Harry and Meghan step back from royal duties and move to the US.
- 2022Archie and Lilibet last saw their grandfather at Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee.
- Jul 2026Harry visits the UK for charity engagements; Meghan and children join him and meet King Charles at Highgrove.
- Aug 19, 2026Daily Telegraph reports the couple's plan to return to the UK; BBC and AP confirm.
- Aug 20, 2026UK front pages cover the news; details emerge about a private residence outside London and school enrollment.
- Aug 21, 2026Commentary and analysis pieces discuss the implications for the royal family.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Buckingham Palace has not commented on the move, but King Charles was informed on Sunday.
- Public
- The news has dominated British conversation, with many asking 'why now?'
- Analysts
- Some royal experts speculate the return is partly to raise their children in Harry's home country.
Still unverified
The exact reasons for the move have not been publicly confirmed; a source close to the couple only remarked on their enjoyment of the July visit.