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Meghan Markle's Friend Reveals How the UK Has Welcomed the Sussexes, and What Meghan 'Missed'

There was a lot of apprehension, it seems like Meghan Markle’s return to Britain appears to be getting a warmer response than she may have expected.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry attend the 75th NBA All-Star Game at Intuit Dome on February 15, 2026, in Inglewood, California. (Cover Image Source: Getty Images I Ronald Martinez)
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry attend the 75th NBA All-Star Game at Intuit Dome on February 15, 2026, in Inglewood, California. (Cover Image Source: Getty Images I Ronald Martinez)

While there was a lot of apprehension, it seems like Meghan Markle’s return to Britain appears to be getting a warmer response than she may have expected. Recently, one of her oldest friends has offered a glimpse into how the Duchess of Sussex has been feeling about the move, and the revelation might come as a shock to many. Kelly McKee Zajfen, who has been close to Markle for decades and is known as one of her best friends, reportedly has been living with the Sussexes in the UK for the past few weeks. 

Kelly
Kelly McKee Zajfen and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, attend The Alliance for Children's Rights 34th Annual Champions for Children at Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, on March 19, 2026, in Beverly Hills, California. (Image Source: Getty Images | Leon Bennett)

In a recent Instagram post, Zajfen shared how Britain was extremely warm and welcoming to all of them. From quiet moments in the Cotswolds to encounters with members of the public, the new carousel suggests Markle has been getting some very personal reminders of her years in the UK. The photos included glimpses of Markle holding baby Jack inside a country pub. There was also a snap of Harry laughing while playing on the floor with the little boy.

Sharing the photos, Zajfen added, "Having the best time. 🤍 There’s something so special about getting a taste of this magical place with my bestie, and having my sweet Jack along for the adventure." The Alliance of Moms founder continued, "I’ve loved seeing this sweet chapter through her eyes and daily adventures! Especially getting to experience so many little firsts with Jack by my side. Family time is just what the heart ordered. With a side of mashed peas and fish n chips! All of it has filled my heart." You can check out the post here

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex with baby Jack. (Image Source: Instagram | (L) & (R) @heartmom)
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, and Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, with baby Jack. (Image Source: Instagram | @heartmom)

Further sharing Markle's UK reception, she added, "You’ve been so good to us. We’re leaving with full hearts and definitely leaving a piece of ours here. To everyone we’ve met or bumped into, thank you for being so loving to my friend. It’s been beautiful to witness. She missed you too!"

In the carousel, we could also see the friends enjoying a pub lunch, with Kelly revealing that she had fish and chips in the garden, and Jack had a taste too. While Markle's move across the Atlantic might be a difficult transition, it seems like her friends are there to support her. 

Prince Harry attends the Time100 Sports Gala in New York City. (Image Source: Getty Images| TheStewartofNY/FilmMagic)
Prince Harry attends the Time100 Sports Gala in New York City. (Image Source: Getty Images
| TheStewartofNY/FilmMagic)

Previously, Harry, during a conversation with PEOPLE!, revealed, “There is a lot to do. They have just moved halfway across the world, and it’s been really busy getting the kids settled," updating fans about how he and his family are adjusting to their new life in the UK.

He continued, "Their focus has been on that, and will remain on that, for the time being. They are happy to be back.” 

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