Prince Harry will return to the UK on September 8 for the WellChild Awards, marking his first visit home in 20 months. The Duke of Sussex is expected to come face-to-face with his father, King Charles, for the first time since their last meeting in early 2024.
The timing carries particular significance as September 8 marks the third anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's death. Harry's extended absence from Britain represents one of the longest periods away from his homeland since stepping back from royal duties.
The WellChild Awards ceremony will see Harry in his role as patron, a position he has held for 17 years. He has attended 14 previous ceremonies, supporting the charity that assists seriously ill children and their families across the UK.
Security and legal challenges
Harry's return comes after losing his security court case in May 2025, which challenged the government's decision to reduce his police protection. His last UK visit was following this court defeat three months ago.
A former senior judge described the Court of Appeal ruling as "preposterous" and "hopeless", according to GB News reports. The security concerns remain a significant factor in Harry's limited UK visits.
Family reconciliation efforts
Relations between Harry and King Charles have begun to ease following an informal peace summit with Buckingham Palace officials, the Mirror reports. Senior aides meeting images suggest steps toward restoring the royal family relationship.
However, Prince William appears unlikely to attend any reunion with his brother during the visit. The Prince of Wales has maintained his distance from reconciliation efforts.
Meghan Markle and their children will remain in California during Harry's UK trip. The Duchess has not visited Britain since Queen Elizabeth's funeral in September 2022.
Sources used: "Express", "Sky News", "GB News", "The Standard", "Mirror", "Daily Record"
Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
