Since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped away from full-time royal duties in early 2020, speculation surrounding their relationship with the United Kingdom has rarely ceased. From the couple’s high-profile move to California, to Prince Harry’s sporadic visits back to his homeland, countless reports have circulated regarding the Prince’s alleged longing for a permanent return, and Meghan’s purported reluctance to set foot in the UK again. Media outlets worldwide have offered variations on this story, often sourced from so-called royal “insiders” or “experts.” However, much of this remains unverified or based on rumor, given that the couple themselves have not publicly confirmed or denied these claims in detail.
In an effort to capture the spirit of the original reporting while removing unfounded rumors, the following article delves into the broader context and what has been publicly observed about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex—Prince Harry and Meghan Markle—and their evolving relationship with Britain. We will revisit the timeline of their departure, examine the potential motivations behind Harry’s occasional visits, and explore the reported stance of Meghan Markle about returning (or not returning) to the UK. Throughout, the aim is to maintain a reflective tone while clarifying which parts of the narrative remain speculative, leaving readers with a balanced understanding of this ongoing conversation.
The Move from the UK to California
In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced that they intended to step back from their roles as senior members of the Royal Family. The news reverberated around the globe, primarily because it marked a rare occurrence: a high-ranking royal couple relinquishing day-to-day duties in exchange for the pursuit of financial independence and personal autonomy. At the heart of their decision, according to their official statements, was a desire to balance time between North America and the UK while supporting causes close to their hearts.
Eventually, their base shifted entirely to the United States. Choosing California as their home, the couple settled in Montecito, a region known for its mild climate, scenic coastline, and a celebrity community that includes figures such as Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres. They began new ventures, like forming Archewell (an organization encompassing charitable work and media production), and signing deals with entertainment giants to produce documentaries, podcasts, and more.
From the start, observers in the media and the public wondered whether this move was meant to be permanent. Some predicted that Harry and Meghan would eventually return to royal duties after a transition period. Others opined that, given the tensions they expressed with certain elements of royal life—particularly regarding privacy and mental health—they were unlikely to ever come back for good. Thus began the swirling speculation over the couple’s future ties to the UK.
Prince Harry’s Visits to Britain
In the years since their relocation, Prince Harry has indeed returned to the UK on multiple occasions. For instance, he traveled back for Prince Philip’s funeral in April 2021, an event that momentarily reunited him with his father, now King Charles III, and his brother, Prince William. He also attended the unveiling of a statue dedicated to his late mother, Princess Diana, in July 2021.
Additionally, Prince Harry made appearances in Britain for court cases and certain royal family events, though sometimes these visits were brief. During each of these trips, media outlets scrambled to piece together any details that might signal Prince Harry’s renewed closeness to his family—or conversely, further strains in their relationships. Meanwhile, Meghan’s absence from many of these events sometimes fueled speculation that she was not interested in returning or did not feel welcome.
It is important to note, however, that these interpretations come largely from outside commentary. The Sussexes themselves have only occasionally offered clarifications, often via official spokespersons or carefully worded interviews. Meghan’s choice to remain in California during many of Harry’s visits could be attributed to a range of practical considerations, such as caring for their two young children, Archie and Lilibet, who were born in May 2019 and June 2021, respectively. Without direct confirmation from the couple, it is difficult to conclude whether Meghan categorically refuses to travel to the UK or if there are logistical factors at play.
Rumors of Conflict and Alleged Disagreement
Some royal commentators assert that Prince Harry “misses his homeland” and longs for a life back in the UK, while Meghan Markle is described as never wanting to set foot there again. Typically, such declarations cite unnamed sources or revolve around interpretations of the couple’s past interviews. A few commentators speculate that the couple’s revelations—most famously shared in their 2021 televised conversation with Oprah Winfrey—would make it uncomfortable, or even untenable, for them to fully reintegrate into royal circles.
Critics of these reports point out that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have, at times, highlighted positive aspects of their family ties and British heritage. They note that in public statements, Prince Harry has repeatedly affirmed his love for his family, indicating that he still cherishes aspects of royal tradition. Furthermore, Meghan has spoken about respecting the Queen (while she was alive) and other members of the Royal Family, suggesting that there may be more nuance to her personal feelings than the tabloids imply.
The Question of Reconciliation
A central storyline in these rumors is the question of whether the Duke and Duchess of Sussex might reconcile with the rest of the Royal Family. Media speculation often paints their relationship with the institution as deeply strained, primarily due to the couple’s public airing of grievances. Yet, royal watchers emphasize that family conflicts—especially those involving global public figures—are rarely straightforward. There are behind-the-scenes conversations and private gestures that never reach the front page.
If Prince Harry genuinely wishes to restore stronger ties with the monarchy, the process would likely involve a series of discussions, a rebuilding of trust, and an acknowledgment of past hurts. Whether Meghan would or would not play an active role in such reconciliation remains uncertain, as the couple has publicly maintained a united front in most matters. Some experts predict that any significant reconciliation, if it happens, will be years in the making, shaped by personal growth and shifting family dynamics.
Balancing Public Life and Personal Freedom
The dilemma for Harry and Meghan—if it indeed exists as rumored—is how to balance personal freedom with a desire for family connections and a re-immersion into British society. With two young children rooted in American life, the logistics of moving back, even part-time, are not simple. Schooling, friendships, and the sense of belonging for Archie and Lilibet in California may be factors that weigh heavily in any family decision.
Conversely, Prince Harry’s identity is strongly tied to the UK. He grew up in the public eye, formed deep relationships through his military service, and devoted years to charitable ventures under the patronage of the Crown. It is plausible that a significant part of him yearns for a deeper connection with his homeland, particularly when it comes to raising his children in an environment that includes British culture and extended family members.
Meghan Markle’s Perspective
Reports suggesting that Meghan Markle “never wants to set foot in England again” tend to rely on emotional language and unverified sources. In reality, Meghan has not offered any categorical statements denying a future visit or indicating a perpetual aversion to the UK. Her presence at Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in September 2022 demonstrated a willingness to return under significant circumstances. Observers note that the formality and solemnity of the occasion might have overshadowed any personal hesitations she could have had. Therefore, concluding that she refuses to visit the UK in general may be an overreach.
Moreover, Meghan has expressed, on various platforms, an appreciation for British culture and traditions. She had, after all, embraced numerous royal duties early in her marriage, from charity engagements to official tours. Without direct, confirmed statements otherwise, claims that she adamantly refuses to visit the UK remain speculative.
Looking Ahead
For now, the question of whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will return to live in the UK—either permanently or more frequently—remains unanswered. What is clear is that their public image and personal decisions continue to be a focal point for both the media and the wider public. With each new trip Harry makes to Britain, the rumor mill churns. With every invitation from the palace that goes unanswered, speculation spikes again.
At the heart of this saga is a young family navigating life between two continents, intertwined with the complexities of a centuries-old institution. Prince Harry has, on several occasions, emphasized that while his love for his country remains intact, his priority is protecting his family’s well-being. Meghan, likewise, has indicated through various interviews that her mental health and the security of her children are paramount.
