Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's return to the UK spotlight has renewed questions about public attitudes towards the monarchy, following their first joint public appearance in the country since moving back with their children. Their visit to Nottingham on 15 October 2026 drew supporters and media attention, bringing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex back into the public eye after years away from official royal duties.
The couple's return has renewed attention on their position in British public life, while existing polling offers a broader picture of public attitudes towards the monarchy. While some supporters continue to welcome the Sussexes, their return has also attracted criticism, reflecting the divided opinions that have followed their departure from royal duties in 2020.
Claims that the monarchy is losing public loyalty remain difficult to establish from a single appearance. However, the couple's continued ability to attract attention has renewed debate about the relationship between the Royal Family, its public image and the people it represents.
Harry and Meghan Return to the UK
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle returned to the public spotlight in the UK with a visit to Nottingham on 15 October 2026. Their appearance brought the Duke and Duchess of Sussex back into contact with British communities after years of living in California.
The couple visited local organisations focused on youth support and community welfare. Their engagements attracted supporters and media attention, renewing interest in their relationship with Britain and the Royal Family.
Public Reaction to the Sussexes
Harry and Meghan's return drew attention from supporters and critics alike. The couple have maintained a public profile through charitable projects and independent engagements since stepping back from official royal duties in 2020.
Comment
by u/Timbucktwo1230 from discussion
in RoyaltyTea
Their reception in Nottingham, however, does not establish whether public attitudes towards the monarchy have changed. Support for the Sussexes and support for the institution are separate measures of public opinion.
Comment
by u/Timbucktwo1230 from discussion
in RoyaltyTea
What Polls Say About Monarchy Support
An Ipsos survey published on 19 June 2026 found that 55 per cent of Britons favoured Britain remaining a monarchy, while 27 per cent preferred a republic. The remaining 18 per cent were undecided. The survey's fieldwork took place from 5 to 11 March 2026.
The results varied by age group. Among respondents aged 18 to 34, 33 per cent supported retaining the monarchy, compared with 45 per cent who preferred a republic. Among those aged 55 and over, 74 per cent supported the monarchy, while 14 per cent favoured a republic.
A separate Ipsos survey published on 16 September 2026 examined attitudes towards a possible reconciliation between Harry, Meghan and other members of the Royal Family. It found that 38 per cent of Britons considered a reconciliation a good thing, while 17 per cent viewed it negatively. Another 33 per cent said it would make no difference.
Harry and Meghan's Position Outside the Royal Firm
Harry and Meghan stepped back from their roles as senior working royals in 2020 and subsequently established their lives in the United States. They continue to pursue charitable and commercial projects independently of the Royal Family.
Their UK appearances do not constitute a return to official royal duties. Relations between Harry and other members of the Royal Family have also remained a subject of public interest, although the extent of any reconciliation remains unclear.
The Nottingham visit has brought Harry and Meghan back into the British public eye, but its significance for the monarchy remains uncertain. Existing polling shows that support for the institution varies considerably by age, while opinions about a possible reconciliation between the Sussexes and the Royal Family remain mixed.
