The Princess Royal is the title given to the eldest daughter of the British monarch. Anne, Princess Royal, born 15 August 1950, currently holds the title and is in her early 70s. This guide explains the origins of the title, lists every Princess Royal, outlines key biographical details and royal duties, and describes the line of succession should Anne step down or pass away. It draws on publicly available biographies and official palace sources to provide a long‑form, evergreen reference.
What the Princess Royal title means
The Princess Royal is not a hereditary peerage but a personal title conferred by the sovereign. It is typically awarded to the monarch’s eldest daughter and is held for life. There is no automatic inheritance, so each new monarch may bestow the title on their eldest daughter, if they have one. The title does not carry legal powers but signals a senior, working role within the royal family, with a history dating to 1642, when the title was first conferred in the British monarchy.
Princess Royal list: every holder and their ages
Since the title’s formal adoption, 12 individuals have held the title Princess Royal. The first was Mary, Princess Royal, daughter of Charles I, followed by subsequent generations of queens, princesses, and working royals. Below is a factual summary with verified years of holding the title and ages at key points. Dates and ages are drawn from authoritative biographies and official records.
Table of Princesses Royal and key ages
| Princess Royal | Birth date | Became Princess Royal | Age when title began | Died / Ended (if applicable) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mary, Princess Royal | 4 November 1631 | 16 August 1642 | 10 | 24 December 1660 |
| Anne, Princess Royal | 15 August 1950 | 8 January 1987 | 36 | Incumbent |
Full list of Princesses Royal (simplified)
- Mary, Princess Royal (1631–1660)
- Anne, Princess Royal (born 1950, current holder)
Note: Earlier medieval holders existed informally; this list reflects the modern, formally recognized line since the 17th century.
Anne, Princess Royal: biography and status
Anne Elizabeth Alice Louise was born on 15 August 1950, making her the first child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Her title of Princess Royal was conferred on 8 January 1987. She is the seventh person to hold the title and the only living Princess Royal. Anne, now in her early 70s, has long undertaken public duties, including military and charitable roles, and is known for a disciplined, low‑key public life.
Key biographical data and current status
As of 2025, Anne remains the Princess Royal and continues royal engagements on behalf of the Crown. No announcement has been made regarding a successor. Her official duties include engagements with charities, armed services, and public bodies. Below are her clearly documented biographical attributes.
Profile data
| Attribute | Verified detail | Source type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Anne Elizabeth Alice Louise | Official palace biography |
| Date of birth | 15 August 1950 | Official birth record |
| Title conferred | 8 January 1987 | Royal Household announcement |
| Current status | Incumbent Princess Royal | Official court circulars |
The line of succession and future of the title
The Princess Royal is not in the line of succession to the throne, as the title does not confer any constitutional role. However, public interest often links the role to succession questions. Should Anne step down or predecease the monarch, the next eldest daughter of the monarch would typically receive the title, if the sovereign chooses to bestow it. At present, no successor has been announced, and the decision remains at the sovereign’s discretion.
Princess Royal vs Princess of Wales: relationship explained
The Princess Royal is distinct from the Princess of Wales, which is held by the wife of the Prince of Wales. The Princess Royal is a personal title tied to the monarch’s eldest daughter, while the Princess of Wales is a courtesy title for the spouse of the heir. There is no familial requirement connecting the two titles; they derive from different traditions within the royal household.
Royal duties and public role
Anne’s workload includes military and nursing charities, international visits, and public service. She holds a number of patronages and presidencies, and she frequently represents the Crown at home and abroad. Her longevity in the role is notable: she has served for over 35 years, offering a model of continuity and professional engagement characteristic of senior royals.
Clarifying common misunderstandings
- The Princess Royal is not in the line of succession to the throne.
- The title is personal and for life; it is not inherited.
- Not every monarch’s daughter automatically becomes Princess Royal; it is at the sovereign’s discretion.
- Anne remains the only living Princess Royal as of 2025.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who is the current Princess Royal and how old is she?
Anne, Princess Royal, born 15 August 1950, is the current Princess Royal and is in her early 70s.
Will the title pass automatically upon Anne’s death?
No. The title is at the sovereign’s discretion and would likely be offered to the monarch’s eldest daughter at that time, if they choose to bestow it.
Is the Princess Royal in the line of succession?
No. The Princess Royal does not hold a place in the line of succession to the throne.
How does the Princess Royal differ from the Princess of Wales?
The Princess Royal is a personal title for the monarch’s eldest daughter; the Princess of Wales is the spouse of the Prince of Wales and heir’s consort.
How long has Anne held the title of Princess Royal?
Anne has held the title since 8 January 1987, spanning over 35 years of service.