Princess Charlotte Set to Receive Historic Title When Prince William Becomes King As the British royal family continues to evolve, much attention has turned to the next generation of royals-particularly Princess Charlotte, the daughter of Prince William and Princess Catherine. Born in 2015, Charlotte is already a beloved figure both within the royal family and among the public. But as her father, Prince William, prepares for his future as king, Charlotte herself is poised to make royal history with a rare and meaningful title: Princess Royal.
A Family in Transition
The past several years have brought monumental changes to the House of Windsor. From Prince Andrew’s public controversies to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepping away from royal duties, and most notably the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, the monarchy has entered a new chapter. King Charles III has taken оп the crown during a time of change and modern redefinition. Yet at 75 years old, his reign is widely viewed as transitional, with many anticipating that Prince William will one day take the throne.
When that happens, William’s immediate family will undergo significant title changes and Princess Charlotte stands to gain one of the most prestigious.
Princess Charlotte Today
Princess Charlotte is currently third in line to the British throne, following her father Prince William and her older brother Prince George. Her full title is Her Royal Highness Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana of Wales, a name that honors her great-grandmother Queen Elizabeth II and her late grandmother Princess Diana. Since birth, Charlotte has been a visible and adored member of the royal family. Whether attending Trooping the Colour, the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, or other public events, she has consistently impressed royal watchers with her poise, confidence, and charm. But her future holds even greater significance. When Prince William ascends to the throne, Charlotte’s place within the royal hierarchy will shift-not in terms of succession, but in terms of symbolism and legacy.
The Title of Princess Royal
One of the most coveted and historic titles in the royal family is Princess Royal, traditionally granted to the eldest daughter of the reigning monarch. Importantly, it is not an automatic designation; it must be bestowed by the monarch. The title is held for life and can only be held by one person at a time, which is why Charlotte cannot be named Princess Royal until the current holder, Princess Anne, passes away or the title otherwise becomes vacant. Princess Anne, the daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, has held the title since 1987 and is widely respected for her tireless royal duties and advocacy work. Upon her eventual passing or the end of her tenure, Princess Charlotte will be in line to inherit this prestigious title from her great-aunt.
A Title Steeped in History
The title of Princess Royal dates back to the 17th century, first used by Princess Mary, the eldest daughter of King Charles I and Queen Henrietta Maria. It was inspired by the French royal title “Madame Royale.” Since then, only seven other royal women have held the designation, reflecting its exclusivity and the honor it carries.
Past holders include:
, Princess Lovisa Maria (daughter of King James II and VII)
, Princess Anne (daughter of King George II)
, Princess Charlotte (daughter of King George III)
, Princess Victoria (daughter of Queen Victoria)
, Princess Lovise (daughter of King Edward VII)
, Princess Mary (daughter of King George V)
, Princess Anne (daughter of Queen Elizabeth II)
Each of these women has contributed to the monarchy in different but impactful ways, and the title of Princess Royal has come to represent a legacy of service, dignity, and dedication.
Charlotte’s Future Role in the Monarchy
If Charlotte does become Princess Royal, she will be the eighth woman in British history to carry the title joining a rare and distinguished group. More than a ceremonial name, it is a mark of recognition and respect for a royal daughter who embodies strength and grace. Given Charlotte’s already evident confidence and presence at public events, many royal watchers believe she will embrace the role with great success.
Her future responsibilities could include more public appearances, official engagements on behalf of the crown, and charitable leadership-much like Princess Anne’s current duties. With her parents’ guidance and example, Charlotte is likely to continue developing the attributes that make her a fitting heir to this title.
A Symbol of Continuity
The conferring of the Princess Royal title to Charlotte would also symbolize continuity within the monarchy. As Queen Elizabeth II once bridged generations with calm leadership, Princess Charlotte’s growing role in the royal family hints at a future that blends tradition with modern sensibilities.
In many ways, she represents the best of both worlds-grounded in royal heritage, yet growing up in an era where openness, accessibility, and relatability are increasingly important to the institution’s survival.
Conclusion
While her future is still unfolding, one thing is certain: Princess Charlotte is on course to leave a lasting mark on royal history. The title of Princess Royal, should it be granted to her when Prince William becomes king, will not only celebrate her status as the monarch’s eldest daughter but also acknowledge her potential as a powerful and inspiring figure in the years to come.
As the royal family continues to evolve, Princess Charlotte stands as a shining symbol of its future graceful, grounded, and ready to carry the legacy forward
