London, UK – Was it only a matter of time before Prince Harry returned to England? According to a source, the Duke of Sussex never stopped missing his old home.

According to People, an insider said the move is something he has been "thinking about for a while."

Even though he and wife Meghan Markle have built a new life in California, it apparently never fully clicked for him there.

He found it difficult to establish a close circle of friends, and at the same time, he missed the long‑standing friends and community he had in the UK.

Prince Harry Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and their kids have arrived back in the UK for surprise move

The insider explained, "Harry never really stopped missing home. He's missed that sense of connection and belonging. Britain is still home in many ways."

Accordingly, the decision to move wasn't as abrupt as it may have seemed to fans. The plans have been in place for about a year, and the choice was made together as a family.

Now that Prince Archie (7) and Princess Lilibet (5) are of school age, the timing for a temporary relocation is especially appropriate.

It has also been rumored that Meghan received an acting offer in England, which would have made the decision easier. Gossip suggested this was for a role in Netflix's The Gentlemen, but recent reports claim that the offer has since been rescinded.

Harry and Meghan arrived in the UK with their children earlier this week.

The couple reportedly plans to take up a private, non‑royal residence, likely outside London. Another insider explained: "Step by step, they want to be in the UK. They want to have the time and give the kids the opportunity to be here."

Archie and Lilibet now have the chance to learn about the traditions and family history their father grew up with.

However, the return may not be a cause for celebration for everyone.

Alisa Anderson, former press secretary to the late Queen Elizabeth, warned, "I don't think they will be welcomed back with open arms. They will have to rebuild that trust and affection – with the family and the public."

Even though the Sussexes now intend to move back to the UK for the time being, their relocation is not expected to be permanent: Harry and Meghan plan to keep their home in California.