Prince Harry is set to make a rare return to the UK next week, and this time, it’s not just about public appearances.
Sources say the Duke of Sussex, 40, wants to bring his children back to Britain and show them the places where he grew up.
His four-day visit will include a series of charity events, marking his longest stay in the country since attending Queen Elizabeth’s funeral in 2022.
A Long-Awaited Return
Harry hasn’t been back for an extended period since moving to the United States five years ago.
While he made a brief visit in April for a High Court hearing about his security arrangements, this trip promises a fuller schedule, even as King Charles remains at Balmoral in Scotland.
His wife, Meghan Markle, has not returned to the UK since September 2022, and their children—Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four—haven’t been back since the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee that same year.
Showing His Children Where He Grew Up
Although Harry previously admitted to missing the UK but couldn’t imagine moving his family back, a friend now says he hasn’t given up hope.
“He wants to bring his family back to the UK to show them where he grew up,” the source told The Times.
“He wants them to know their family here and really hopes to spend more time back in Britain in the future.”
Charity Appearances Packed Into Four Days
The Duke’s schedule is busy. On Monday, coinciding with the third anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s passing, he will attend the WellChild Awards in London.
Tuesday sees him heading to an event supporting young people affected by violence, and the rest of the week will include various receptions and meetings, including engagements for his Invictus Foundation.
Life in Royal Residences Before Leaving
Harry and Meghan originally lived in Nottingham Cottage at Kensington Palace and later Frogmore Cottage near Windsor after their 2018 marriage.
Though modest by royal standards, Nottingham Cottage offered access to royal amenities, but Meghan reportedly disliked the small space.
Author Tom Quinn has described Meghan’s early frustrations in his book Yes Ma’am, claiming she felt Harry was being belittled by the royal family and noticed that he wasn’t as central as Prince William.
Challenges During Palace Life
While living at Kensington Palace, sources allege Meghan could be demanding, with concerns raised about her treatment of staff.
After moving to the larger Frogmore Cottage in 2019, incidents reportedly continued, including complaints from staff that reached the late Queen, who intervened in one case involving an under gardener.
Meghan has also been described as challenging in other professional settings, although some colleagues insist she is warm and generous.
Looking Forward
Despite past controversies, this upcoming trip represents a chance for Harry to reconnect with his roots and give Archie and Lilibet a sense of the family history and life in the UK.
Whether this signals a more permanent return for the Sussex family remains to be seen, but the Duke clearly values showing his children where he grew up and strengthening their connection to their British heritage.