Prince Harry, Meghan Markle 'arrive' in UK to embrace new mission

Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and their children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet left the US for the UK on Wedenesday to begin a new chapter defined by purpose, family and independence.

The Sussexes' arrival has captured headlines as Meghan steps forward with her own team, renewed vision and greater control over her career to lead a special mission beyond royal life.

Those close to the former actress say her support network is “stronger now than it ever was.”

Returning to Britain does not mean returning to royal life. The Sussexes  will remain private, non-working members of the royal family, with King Charles making clear there will be no change to the arrangement established when they stepped back from official duties in 2020.

However, Prince Harry and his children have the full blessing of the British monarch. The Palace has already offered them royal accommodation for their stay in the UK.

Six years ago, they left Britain after a tumultuous period as a working royals, when intense tabloid coverage compounded the pressures teh former Suits star faced behind palace walls.

The 45-year-old has since spoken openly about how isolated and unhappy she became, including revealing that she experienced suicidal thoughts.

This time, however, Meghan returns without the palace hierarchy that once allegedly governed her life, and with her own career, team and support system.

“She has been vocal about how she felt about it before, but that doesn’t mean things are going to be exactly the same again,” an ally tells PEOPLE in this week’s cover story. “It doesn’t mean it can’t be different and can’t change.”

The couple's surprisng move could help them improve their popularity in Harry's homeland as the recent polls have placed both of them near the bottom, just above the former Prince Andrew.

Last week, it was revealed that the couple would be moving to the UK in August, likely to base themselves at a private property near london in the Cotswolds.

In a statement shared with The New York Times, a spokesperson for the Sussexes said, "On the heels of a wonderful trip with family and friends this summer, Harry and Meghan have decided to spend an extended period in the U.K. this autumn.

 "They are excited to have their children spend more time in the country that’s such an important part of their family’s story."

Meghan will continue running her lifestyle brand. Just hours before taking the flight, she announced As Ever’s latest product: Spiced Apple Butter, inspired by her grandmother’s recipe and first shared on her now-defunct lifestyle blog, The Tig.