If you want to stay up-to-date on everything royal, you’ve come to the right place. From the new King of England to the latest news and gossip surrounding the monarchy, you’ll find all the information you need here. The British monarchy has been around for centuries, and there is much to learn about the Royal Family. From their iconic homes to the traditions they’ve upheld, the lives of the Royals are endlessly fascinating.
With the recent ascension of King Charles to the throne, the spotlight on the monarchy has only grown brighter. In this article, we’ll explore the new King and all the details of his reign, as well as the history and customs of the Royal Family. So if you’re a fan of the Royal Family or just curious to learn more, read on to learn everything you want to know about The Royals.
The History of the British Monarchy
The history of the British monarchy is long and storied, dating back to the 10th century. The monarchy was established when King Edward the Confessor died without an heir. His successor, Harold Godwinson, was the last Anglo-Saxon King of England. William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 ended the Anglo-Saxon period and the Norman period of the monarchy.
The Normans were descendants of Viking raiders who had settled in France and adopted the French language and culture. William I, also known as William the Conqueror, became King of England after his victory at Hastings. William was the first monarch to rule England and Normandy as one country. After his death, his son, William II, also known as William Rufus, became King. The first two kings of England were buried in the newly built Westminster Abbey, but William II was buried in Winchester Cathedral.
The Line of Succession
The British monarchy is a constitutional monarchy, which means the sovereign is the Head of State but wields little power or authority in government. The British Parliament, which consists of the House of Commons and House of Lords, makes the laws in the country, while the Monarch is the Head of State.
The Monarch has a largely ceremonial position, but they are also the Defender of the Faith, meaning they are the head of the Church of England. The role of the Monarch and the Royal Family changes slightly depending on the current monarch’s age. In the case of the death of the reigning Monarch, a new Monarch is required; the person who ascends to the throne is called the successor.
King Charles: The New King of England
King Charles’ coronation will take place on May 7, 2023. He is the oldest son of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. Charles and Camilla were married on May 9, 2005, at Windsor Castle. The ceremony was a very modern affair and was broadcast on television. Charles was born on November 14, 1948, in Buckingham Palace. He was educated at the Scottish Universities, Edinburgh and St. Andrews, and is known for his interest in the environment and architecture. He is the longest-waiting heir to the British throne and the oldest living heir when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died.
The Royal Family’s Homes and Palaces
The Royal Family spends a lot of time at their various palaces in London, Windsor, and Edinburgh. There are 16 royal residences in the United Kingdom, but the Royal Family regularly uses only five. These are Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Kensington Palace, the Tower of London, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Monarch and the official residence of the British Royal Family. It is also where the Monarch’s formal Staterooms are located. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. It is the official residence of the King and the Royal Family when they are in the town of Windsor. Kensington Palace is the official residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
Traditions and Customs of the Royal Family
The Royal Family has many old ceremonial traditions that have been upheld for hundreds of years. These traditions have a rich history and often mark important milestones for the monarchy.
- The State Opening of Parliament: The State Opening of Parliament marks the beginning of a new Parliamentary year and is one of the most critical events in the British legislative calendar. It is held in Westminster Hall and involves the Monarch, the Prime Minister, and other members of Parliament. It is one of the rare occasions when the Monarch wears all their formal regalia.
- The Trooping of the Colour: This colorful parade marks the official birthday of the current Monarch and is one of London’s most famous events. It is also known as “the Queen’s Birthday Parade” or the “Annual Inspection of the Queen’s Guards.”
- The Royal Ascot: The Royal Ascot is a horse race meeting annually at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire. It is held over a week in June and according to London tourism statistics, it is one of the world’s most famous horse racing events.
- Garter Day: Garter Day is an annual June event at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle. It is the day when new members of the Order of the Garter are installed.
The Current Royal Family
The current line of succession to the British throne is as follows: Prince Charles, Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, Prince Henry of Wales, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward, Princess Beatrice of York, Princess Eugenie (of York), Prince Philip, Prince James, Princess Anne (of Edinburgh), Prince William of Gloucester, Princess Mary, Prince Edward of Kent, Princess Alexandra, Prince Michael of Kent.
There are 15 members of the Royal Family. They are the reigning Monarch and their immediate family: Prince Philip, Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla, Prince William, Duchess Catherine and their children, Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and her son, and Prince Philip’s children.
Conclusion
The British Monarchy has a long and storied history. While the crown has passed through many hands since its inception, it is still one of the most important and recognizable institutions in the United Kingdom. The Royal Family are a constant source of fascination for people around the world, and as a result, there is a lot of information about them. From the various palaces that the Royals call home to their many traditions, the lives of the Royals are endlessly fascinating.