Prince Harry and Meghan Markle: New UK Living Arrangement and Future Plans

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have recently moved to a new property on the estate of a wealthy friend, halting their house hunting in Britain. This choice provides them with flexibility regarding their future living arrangements. Previously, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex resided in California for six years before moving back to Britain in August. Currently, they maintain ownership of their Montecito mansion in the US without committing to a specific timeframe for their stay in the UK.

Current Living Situation

The couple resides with a wealthy friend near the Cotswolds, according to reports. Media outlets have refrained from disclosing the exact location to respect their privacy. The British newspaper, Daily Mail, reported that they have relocated within the estate to another property, ceasing their active search for a new home. Newsweek contacted the Sussex representatives, who declined to comment on their private accommodations.

Reasons Behind the Move

Their return to Britain remains somewhat enigmatic, as the couple had previously expressed feeling driven out of the country. Prince Harry mentioned the intention to enroll their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, in British schools. However, they have not confirmed if they will remain until their children complete their education in 2039. Videos shared by Meghan offered glimpses of their new lifestyle, contrasting with their life in sunny California. Their children currently attend British private schools, having switched due to security concerns about traffic congestion near their first choice.

Future Considerations

Buying property in the UK would suggest the Sussexes plan a long-term stay. Initial plans reportedly included searching for homes with a £10 million budget. Rumors suggest a potential return to California after Christmas, but there are several reasons the couple might extend their stay in Britain.

For instance, Harry’s Invictus Games for veterans is scheduled for July in Birmingham, providing him a chance to promote the event. He attended the inaugural Invictus Spirit Awards in September, which raised $2.2 million for the Invictus Games Foundation.

August 2027 will mark the 30th anniversary of Princess Diana’s passing. Harry is planning a tribute project to commemorate this. A Netflix documentary about his mother’s legacy is one potential option. Staying in Britain would facilitate filming and interviewing UK-based individuals involved in the project.

Relationship with the Royal Family

Reconciliation with the royal family is another aspect. In a 2025 interview with The Guardian, Harry expressed his intention to focus on his relationship with his father, King Charles III, over the next year. He met with the king in July and had a phone conversation shortly after their return to Britain. Opportunities for direct interaction with the king are limited; even Prince William, who fulfills royal duties, finds them rare. Although Harry and Meghan plan to spend Christmas in California, missing a key royal family gathering, it spares King Charles from potential tensions, particularly concerning Prince William, who is not on speaking terms with Harry.

Contact Newsweek editors on this story: Daniel Orton and James Debens.