A royal return, a quieter chapter and a new home in the Cotswolds

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, have returned to the UK with their children, Archie and Lilibet, marking the family’s first return to Britain in six years, according to The Telegraph.

The Sussexes reportedly arrived at Birmingham Airport around lunchtime on Wednesday after travelling privately from California. Unlike their previous life in Britain, however, this return is expected to look distinctly different: the family is set to live as private citizens rather than working members of the Royal Family.

A New Base in the Cotswolds

The family is expected to make a home in the Cotswolds, with Archie and Lilibet reportedly enrolled at a UK school ahead of the new academic term.

How long the family intends to remain in Britain is still unclear. A source quoted by The Telegraph suggested that the stay could be considerably longer than a brief visit, saying:

“How long will they stay? I don’t know, but it will be for an extended period.”

The source added that the timeframe could range from six months to a year—or potentially two years.

The development marks a significant change from the Sussexes’ post-royal life in California. Harry and Meghan left the UK in early 2020 after stepping back as senior working members of the Royal Family, eventually establishing their home in California later that year.

Keeping the Royal Family Informed

According to the report, King Charles was informed of the family’s plans earlier this month. Harry, Meghan and their children also met the King at Highgrove during their visit to the UK last month.

The Prince and Princess of Wales have reportedly been informed of the family’s plans as well.

While the return does not signal a return to royal duties, the family’s presence in Britain inevitably brings their relationship with the Royal Family back into focus.

Security Remains a Key Question

Harry’s security arrangements in the UK are also expected to attract renewed attention.

The Duke lost a legal challenge last year concerning the decision to reduce his publicly funded security after he ceased being a working royal and moved to the United States.

For now, though, the headline is less about royal duties and more about family life: Harry and Meghan are back in Britain, their children are expected to attend school in the UK, and the Sussexes appear to be preparing for a considerably longer chapter on British soil.