Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are turning from West Coast life to embrace the English countryside as they prepare for their children’s schooling in the UK this fall. Rather than settling in London, the family is searching for privacy and pastoral beauty in the Cotswolds or Northamptonshire, signaling a fresh chapter close to family and nature.
- Sussexes target private estates away from London.
- Cotswolds and Northamptonshire top the shortlist.
- Plan to keep Montecito as a second home.
What happened
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are preparing to spend more time in the United Kingdom with their children, Archie and Lilibet, who are expected to start school there in September. They are not looking to settle in London but are instead focusing on private countryside estates in either the Cotswolds or Northamptonshire. These locations provide a quieter, more private lifestyle compared to the bustling capital city.
The couple has history in the Cotswolds, where they rented a farmhouse shortly after their wedding in 2018. Northamptonshire holds personal significance as well, being home to Althorp, the Spencer family estate related to Princess Diana. Despite this move, Harry and Meghan intend to keep their home in Montecito, California, ensuring their British property becomes a second base rather than a replacement.
Why it feels good
Choosing the English countryside aligns with the Sussexes’ desire for privacy and connection to nature. The Cotswolds and Northamptonshire offer picturesque settings that combine traditional British country charm with accessibility to London and family estates. The areas are also favored by celebrities, creating a subtle sense of community among well-known figures seeking tranquility.
This move reflects a balance between maintaining ties to their heritage and creating a peaceful family environment. For Meghan, especially, it marks a comfortable return to British rural life after years in California, and offers a chance for the family to experience the best of both worlds—country calm and urban convenience.
What to enjoy or watch next
While details about their specific new residence remain private, those interested can explore the classic English countryside aesthetic through various design inspirations. Books and guides inspired by the Cotswolds lifestyle celebrate a blend of rustic charm and refined interiors, making it easier to bring this tranquil style into any home.
Keep an eye on how this transition unfolds for the Sussex family, as their choices continue to reflect an evolving blended life between two continents. Their dual homes in Montecito and England promise a unique family rhythm and fresh stories ahead.