The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, is poised for another significant return to British soil. His upcoming trip to give evidence in a court case against Associated Newspapers Limited marks the latest chapter in a series of visits since his and Meghan Markle's dramatic exit from royal life in 2020. While now based in California, Harry has made numerous journeys back to the UK, often for poignant family events or charitable commitments, but notably without plans to see his father, King Charles, on this occasion.
A Solemn Start: Early Returns for Family Farewells
Harry's first trip back to his home country after the 'Megxit' announcement came over a year later, in April 2021. He travelled solo to attend the funeral of his grandfather, Prince Philip. This set a pattern for subsequent visits, which have frequently centred on major family milestones, both celebratory and sombre.
In July 2021, he returned to join his brother, Prince William, for the unveiling of a statue dedicated to their mother, Princess Diana. The following year saw two major family events. In April 2022, en route to the Invictus Games in the Netherlands, Harry and Meghan had a private meeting with the late Queen and then-Prince Charles at Windsor. Then, in June 2022, the couple made a rare family visit, bringing their children Archie and Lilibet to the UK for the late Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Periods of Mourning and Duty
The death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022 prompted an extended stay. The Sussexes, who were already in the UK for charity work, remained for around two weeks. They joined Prince William and Princess Kate for a walkabout at Windsor Castle and attended the state funeral at Westminster Abbey. It was the last time Meghan has visited the UK.
Harry's subsequent trips have been largely solo. He returned in May 2023 for his father's coronation, and in February 2024 he made a swift visit to see King Charles at Clarence House following the monarch's cancer diagnosis. That meeting lasted approximately 30 minutes.
Charity, Court, and Clarence House
Alongside family obligations, Harry's UK schedule has been punctuated by philanthropic work and legal battles. He is a regular attendee at the annual WellChild Awards, having travelled for the event in September 2023, September 2024, and September 2025. The 2025 visit included a 50-minute private tea with King Charles at Clarence House, which was their last meeting.
Legal matters have also drawn him back. In May 2025, he came to London for an appeal regarding the withdrawal of his UK security detail, a case he ultimately lost in the High Court. His imminent visit is for another court appearance, this time to give evidence against Associated Newspapers Limited.
Other notable trips include attending a thanksgiving service for the Invictus Games in May 2024 and the funeral of his uncle, Sir Robert Fellowes, in Norfolk in August 2024. Looking ahead, Harry is planning a further UK visit in July 2026 to promote the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham.
This pattern of brief, purpose-driven visits underscores the Duke's changed relationship with the UK. Each return is tightly scheduled around specific events, with family time often limited to formal meetings rather than extended stays, highlighting the ongoing complexities within the Royal Family since his departure.
