Skip to content
25 August 2026

The Sussexes’ Return to the UK: Life in the Cotswolds

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are set to return to the UK, settling in the picturesque Cotswolds. Discover their plans for charity work, acting, and family life.

The Sussexes' Return to the UK: Life in the Cotswolds

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are preparing to embark on a new chapter in their lives, returning to the UK after several years abroad. Their decision to settle in the Cotswolds a region known for its charm and tranquility, has sparked considerable interest and speculation about their future plans.

This move marks a significant shift for the couple, who have been residing in California since stepping back from their roles as senior royals. As they prepare to resettle, their priorities and activities in the UK are becoming clearer.

The Cotswolds: A New Home

The Cotswolds, with its rolling hills and picturesque villages, has long been a favored retreat for celebrities and high-profile individuals. The Sussexes are no exception, having previously rented a property in the area in 2018. Their decision to return to this region is seen as a strategic choice, offering both privacy and proximity to key locations.

The couple’s new residence will be kept secret for security reasons, but reports suggest they have been scouting the area for some time. The Cotswolds’ proximity to Highgrove House the country home of King Charles III, is also notable. This location allows the Sussexes to maintain a close relationship with the king while keeping a respectful distance from other members of the royal family.

Charity Work and Public Engagements

For Prince Harry, the focus will be on charity work and patronages he has maintained despite living thousands of miles away. He has recently completed his final charity engagements in the US and is set to resume his public work in the UK. One of his first engagements will be at the WellChild Awards in London, an event that honors the bravery of seriously ill children.

Harry’s commitment to supporting military veterans and their families is also expected to continue. His recent visit to Arlington National Cemetery, where he met the widow and daughter of Sergeant Michael Verardo, highlights the impact he aims to make through his charitable efforts. This work is likely to be a central part of his activities as he resettles in the UK.

Meghan’s Return to Acting

Meghan Markle, known for her acting career before joining the royal family, is reportedly exploring opportunities to return to the screen. Speculation has mounted about her potential involvement in the next series of The Gentlemen on Netflix, created by British director Guy Ritchie. While talks are in the early stages, this move could be financially lucrative for the family, helping to cover expenses such as school fees and international travel.

In a recent interview, Meghan hinted at her desire to return to acting, expressing her love for being on set and working with a crew. However, scheduling and compensation negotiations are likely to play a significant role in any decisions she makes. Her business ventures, including her lifestyle series With Love, Meghan will also continue to be a focus as she settles into life in the UK.

Family Life and Education

The Sussexes’ two children, Archie and Lilibet, will be enrolling in British schools, with the autumn term beginning shortly after their arrival. Meghan is expected to concentrate on settling her children into their new routines, with any public engagements likely to be minimal initially. The couple will maintain their home in Montecito, California, ensuring a continued connection to their life in the US.

Their decision to return to the UK comes at a time of significant change for the royal family. While the specifics of their relationship with other members of the family remain uncertain, their move to the Cotswolds signals a new chapter in their lives, one that balances privacy, public service, and personal interests.

Beatrice Mitchell
Author

Beatrice Mitchell

Beatrice Mitchell, Manchester-rooted and classically elegant, famously commissioned a rebuttal series after a controversial council planning meeting in Stockport, insisting on community testimony. Holds a firm editorial line on accountability and narrative fairness, and collects vintage city planning maps as an idiosyncratic hobby.