Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrived in the United Kingdom on Wednesday, marking their return after six years in the United States. The family, including their two children, Prince Archie (7) and Princess Lilibet (5), landed at Birmingham International Airport via a private charter flight from Van Nuys, California, at 11:56 a.m., according to flight tracking data.
The Sussexes will reside in a private property outside London, specifically in the Cotswolds area, and will live as private citizens without resuming royal duties. Their children have already been enrolled in British schools and are scheduled to begin classes in September.
Flight details and arrival confirmed
A spokesperson for the couple stated that the family’s relocation was not a topic for public comment. The BBC and The Telegraph reported the arrival, with the latter noting the plane touched down around noon. The family’s move follows their decision to step back from official royal roles in early 2020 and relocate to Montecito, California, where they established a residence.
Children’s education and living arrangements
Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet were enrolled in schools prior to the family’s return, with their first day of term set for next month. The couple’s residence in the Cotswolds was confirmed by The Telegraph, though the exact location remains undisclosed. The family retains ownership of their California home despite the move.
Context: Six-year absence and relocation
The Sussexes left the UK in 2019, shortly after Prince Archie’s birth, to pursue independent careers in media and entertainment. They secured high-profile contracts with Netflix and Spotify during their time in the U.S. Their return to Britain has been framed as a fresh start, with no indication of renewed involvement in royal obligations.