Prince Harry and Meghan return to the United Kingdom after six years in California

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle flew to the United Kingdom on Wednesday, accompanied by their children Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, marking the couple's first return after six years living in California. The family travelled on a private aircraft and brought their dogs, while leaving their chickens in Montecito, where they have resided since 2020.

A spokesperson for the Sussexes declined to comment on the couple's future residence, citing privacy and security considerations. A source close to the family told NBC News that the move is intended for an "extended period" of time.

The Duke and Duchess, who stepped down as working royals in 2020, remain non-working members of the royal family. Reports indicate that their children have been enrolled in schools in the United Kingdom.

Security arrangements for the couple have not been disclosed. When asked about the issue, Prime Minister Andy Burnham said, "This is a private matter, it’s a matter for Harry and Meghan, and we wish them well in the moves that they’re making."

The return follows a series of legal disputes involving the couple and the British press, including a recent High Court judgment requiring Harry and other claimants to pay £34.5 million to a newspaper publisher.