Harry & Meghan Return to UK: 6 Years After Megxit Explained

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have returned to the United Kingdom, six years after stepping back from royal duties and moving to Montecito, California. British media reported on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex landed at Birmingham Airport with their two children, Archie and Lilibet, aboard a private jet. A spokesperson declined to comment, citing privacy and security concerns.

Why did Harry and Meghan leave the UK?

Harry and Meghan's return to the UK marks a significant reversal of the so-called Megxit royal exit that shook the monarchy in 2020. The couple stepped down as working royals, later saying they had no choice and wanted to lead 'a quieter life'. Their public criticism of the royal family and British tabloids created a deep rift, particularly between Harry and his father, King Charles III, who went years without seeing his grandchildren, Archie and Lilibet.

How the Sussexes arrived in Birmingham

According to the BBC and CNN, the family flew privately from California into Birmingham Airport on a Bombardier Global Express XRS business jet. The airport is about 70 miles north of the Cotswolds royal homes, where the couple are reportedly house hunting. Their dogs, Mia and Pula, made the journey, while their chickens remained at their $14 million Montecito mansion. Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, have already been enrolled in British schools for the September term.

Will they resume royal duties?

No. The Sussexes will live as private citizens and remain classified as non-working royals. The stay is described as an 'extended period' — possibly six months, a year, or longer. Meghan is expected to continue her lifestyle brand, As Ever, from the new UK home, while the couple keep properties in Montecito and Portugal. Security remains an unresolved issue: Harry lost a Court of Appeal challenge last year over the downgrade of his publicly funded police protection and has pressed Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood for a pending risk assessment.

What the return means for royal relations

The move follows the family's July reunion with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Highgrove House — the monarch's first time seeing his daughter-in-law and grandchildren in four years. The Sussexes are reportedly seeking a home near the King's residence to help the children build family relationships. However, the relationship with Prince William and Kate Middleton remains strained; royal expert Duncan Lanscombe said 'William feels he and Kate are owed an apology.' This week marks the first time Harry and Meghan have been in the UK together since Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in 2022.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Harry and Meghan moving back to the UK permanently?

No official permanence has been announced. Reports suggest an extended stay of at least six months to a year, with the possibility of longer.

Will they resume royal duties?

No, they will remain non-working royals and live as private citizens.

Where will the family live?

The couple are believed to be house hunting in the Cotswolds, near King Charles's Highgrove residence.

What about Archie and Lilibet's education?

Both children have been enrolled in British schools and are expected to start in September 2026.

What security will the family have?

Harry's publicly funded UK police protection was downgraded; he continues to challenge the decision legally.