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Their arrival represents the first time the couple have based themselves in the UK since stepping back from royal duties in 2020

Prince Harry and Meghan touched down at Birmingham Airport around midday on Wednesday, accompanied by their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

Both youngsters are set to begin attending a British school when the autumn term commences next week.

The move marks a significant moment for the family, who departed the working Royal family six years ago.

It follows a brief visit to Britain in July, during which the Duchess of Sussex posted photographs from their time at Althorp on her Instagram account.

The Sussexes are describing their relocation as an "extended stay" rather than a permanent return, though the duration remains uncertain.

The couple intend to maintain an "international" lifestyle, holding on to their properties in both California and Portugal.

One telling detail about the family's long-term intentions: their dogs Mia and Pula have made the journey across the Atlantic, but their chickens remain at the Montecito estate rather than being rehomed.

The decision to leave the birds in place suggests the Sussexes have not ruled out an eventual return to the United States.

The arrangement reflects the couple's stated ambition to split their time between countries rather than settle permanently in any single location.

Despite allies of the Sussexes signalling a desire for a "half-in, half-out" arrangement mirroring the approach taken during their Australian tour earlier this year both the King and the Prince of Wales are reportedly standing firm on the principles established at the Sandringham summit.

The late Queen Elizabeth II determined at that gathering that the couple could not combine part-time royal duties with their commercial ventures.

During July's visit, the King and Queen welcomed Harry, Meghan and their children for tea at Highgrove, a meeting described as having gone well, though the substance of conversations between father and son remains undisclosed.

The Duke and the Prince of Wales are understood to have no direct personal communication.

Prince Harry is anticipated to undertake charitable work next month, including the WellChild awards, while Meghan plans to continue running her As Ever brand.

The family's security arrangements have yet to be formally updated, with protection continuing to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.