Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may be returning to Britain, but not to a quiet, isolated life. Their expected move to the Cotswolds places the Duke and Duchess of Sussex in one of England’s most sought-after rural enclaves, where privacy and celebrity often go hand in hand. The area, spread across five counties northwest of London, has long drawn royals, media figures and entertainment stars. If the couple settle there with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, they would be exchanging Montecito for another high-profile community with deep personal links.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have history in Oxfordshire
The region is far from new territory for the Sussexes. Meghan spent time at Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire before her 2018 wedding, and the couple also rented a home there while Frogmore Cottage was being renovated. Harry later reflected on that period in his memoir. "While the work was being done, we thought we could move into Oxfordshire full time. We loved it out there. The air fresh, the verdant grounds—plus, no paps," said Prince Harry according to Hello Magazine. That memory helps explain why the area still holds appeal.
Ellen DeGeneres and David Beckham live nearby
The Cotswolds has become a magnet for famous residents who want space without giving up access to elite social circles. Among those with homes in the area are David and Victoria Beckham, Princess Beatrice, Kate Moss and Simon Cowell. Meghan and Harry also have friends nearby, including Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi. According to Hello Magazine, the couple are expected to keep their Montecito mansion even if England becomes their main base. Their dogs, Pula and Mia, are said to be making the move, while their chickens will stay in California.
King Charles and Princess Beatrice are closer from there
A home in the Cotswolds would also place Harry nearer to parts of his family. King Charles has his private residence at Highgrove in Gloucestershire, and Harry and Meghan reportedly spent time there with the King and Queen Camilla shortly before news of the move emerged. Harry’s cousin Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi also have a farmhouse in the area. That makes the location practical as well as personal, offering easier access to family connections while still allowing the Sussexes a degree of separation from central royal life.
Soho Farmhouse remains a key draw for the Sussexes
The social pull of the area may be just as important as its countryside calm. Soho Farmhouse remains one of the best-known private clubs in the region, and Meghan is still said to be friendly with Soho House executive Markus Anderson. Property experts also point to the area’s enduring appeal for wealthy buyers seeking charm and discretion. One local detail even echoes the Sussexes’ California lifestyle: David Beckham keeps chickens at his estate. "It's beautiful there, so beautiful," he told Queen Camilla in 2025. "We love it. We are very happy there. We’ve got chickens…
