The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have relocated to Britain with their children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five. The family flew into Birmingham Airport via private jet on Wednesday before reportedly heading to their new private, non-royal residence.
The move comes six years after Harry and Meghan left the country for America, quitting royal duty in the process. A former friend of the duchess believes life in the UK will be more “manageable” for her now, as she will be able to do things “on her own terms” – a benefit she did not necessarily have before as a working royal.
Mixed emotions and a new approach
Speaking about Harry and Meghan’s return, brand and culture expert Nick Ede said: “I imagine Meghan would approach it with very mixed emotions. Britain was the setting for her wedding and one of the most extraordinary chapters of her life, but it is also associated with intense scrutiny, negative headlines and a period she has described as deeply painful.”
“She would not be arriving as a new royal expected to learn an unfamiliar system; she would be coming back as an independent woman with her own businesses, profile and boundaries. That could make the experience feel much more manageable,” Ede added.
Private life and schooling
“She may never feel entirely relaxed about the British media, but a private home and clearly defined separation from royal duties could allow her to engage with the UK on her own terms.”
Despite relocating, Harry and Meghan are not set to become working royals again. Only very few details have been confirmed about their UK return, including the fact that Archie and Lilibet have been enrolled in a British school.
It was also reported that the family are living in a home outside of London, though the exact location has not been revealed for security reasons. The location of the school the children will attend has also been kept private. The family are keeping hold of their home in Montecito, California, and their holiday home in Portugal.
