Growing up as a royal child isn’t as easy as it seems. The youngest members of the British Royal family must navigate endless rules, protocols, and dress codes for their entire lives. Discover some of the weirdest rules and hidden truths that shape their daily existence, unless they choose a dramatic exit like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
Strict No-Nonsense Training at Two
Royal children are introduced to numerous customs from a young age, including the tradition of curtseying to the sovereign, which begins as early as two years old. Their etiquette training covers public behavior, formal greetings, posture, handshakes, and even appropriate conversation topics, with the training lasting for years. Despite the extensive training, maintaining impeccable behavior can be challenging, as evidenced by a public moment where Prince Louis playfully thumbed his nose at Kate Middleton, suggesting that etiquette lessons may not always go smoothly.
They are required to receive gifts but do not always retain them
While it may not appear significant, there’s a stringent protocol for how royal children should respond when receiving gifts. Despite being showered with numerous presents from unfamiliar individuals, they are obliged to accept the offerings to avoid appearing impolite. However, there’s a condition attached – they can only retain gifts from unknown individuals if the value is up to $200.
Royal kids have different dietary restrictions than regular children
Despite having access to skilled chefs, being part of the Royal Family comes with dietary restrictions. Royal children are not permitted to indulge in processed or pre-packaged foods. While they may enjoy the occasional box of organic apple juice, their diets are carefully curated, shaping a refined palate from an early age. Despite their wealth, the notion that royal kids can eat whatever they desire is not accurate.
The Queen prohibited the children from playing Monopoly due to frequent arguments
Children in the Royal Family engage in various games, but there’s one exception – Monopoly is strictly forbidden. The ban is attributed to the numerous disputes it has sparked within the family. With lying, cheating, and accusations leading to conflicts, the monarchy decided to draw a clear line. Consequently, the new generations are prohibited from playing this particular board game. If a ban is necessary over a board game, it raises questions about how more serious issues are managed within the royal household.
Knee-length dress for girls
Royal girls, like Princess Charlotte, are consistently impeccably dressed, adhering to a strict dress code. They are typically expected to wear dresses that conclude around the knee, with shorts or pants generally discouraged. While there may be exceptions for special occasions or private settings, public events and photoshoots demand the traditional attire of smocked knee-length dresses paired with Mary Jane shoes, a practice that has been upheld for generations.
Public behavior
Even as young children, royal offspring are held to high behavioral standards, as they might ascend to the throne one day. Their conduct is expected to surpass that of an average child, with any public meltdowns being disapproved. Etiquette training becomes crucial, requiring the children to recall and exhibit the impeccable manners they’ve been taught, demonstrating utmost respect. These expectations extend beyond public appearances and persist behind closed doors. Daily reminders and lessons reinforce how they should carry themselves, emphasizing the significance of maintaining a positive public image in the realm of royalty.
Two heirs are not allowed to travel together, ensuring constant protection of the throne
Due to the inherent risks of air travel, a rule prohibits two direct heirs from flying together on the same flight to safeguard the lineage. This protocol ensures that if an heir were to tragically perish while traveling, the next in line can assume their role. Prince William sparked controversy by breaking this tradition, flying with his son, Prince George. Despite past exceptions, as Prince George grows older, he is expected to start flying separately from his father, adhering to the established protocol.
Even the youngest members are anticipated to attend the most tedious events
While the youngest royals may not have schedules as hectic as their parents and older family members, they are still required to participate in various events. Princess Charlotte and Prince George, for instance, have joined their parents on official royal tours. As they grow into pre-teens and young adults, a consistent involvement in walkabouts and charity events will be expected, adhering to a guideline for all royal children. Regardless of age, their attendance at the annual Trooping the Colour ceremony is obligatory, symbolizing their respect and commitment to their country.
Wearing black during the day is not permitted for royal children
While it might appear peculiar to restrict children from wearing a certain color, it’s a tradition upheld for generations. Black attire is exclusively reserved for mourning during the day, with only one exception noted when Prince George wore an all-black military suit to a wedding. Typically, black is reserved for funerals unless it’s a special occasion. The children are required to have a black outfit prepared in case of an unexpected death, adhering to this unusual yet steadfast custom.
Upon Archie’s birth, there were expectations that he would receive a title
The absence of an immediate title for Prince Harry’s first-born son, Archie, sparked controversy. While William and Kate’s children have titles, Archie, known as Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, initially did not. Harry and Meghan claimed they requested a title but were not granted one. With Charles ascending to the throne, Archie is expected to become His Royal Highness, Prince Archie, although this remains unconfirmed, deviating from the typical practice for royal children.
Royal boys are expected to wear only shorts as a sign of their high-class status
While the Royal Family’s adherence to a strict dress code isn’t surprising, the specific details regarding children’s attire might be lesser-known. Royal boys are required to wear shorts until the age of eight, after which they can switch to trousers. This seemingly arbitrary rule is rooted in tradition, symbolizing class and the transition to manhood. Wearing trousers is considered middle class and is typically associated with older boys. Despite potential weather considerations, the dress code remains intact.
They’re not allowed to eat shellfish
Despite enjoying treats like ice cream and dining out, young members of the British Royal Family are prohibited from consuming shellfish. This restriction is not only imposed on royal children but is discouraged for the entire Royal Family. The aversion to shellfish is rooted in the higher risk of bacterial contamination and the potential for food poisoning. As a result, royal children are unlikely to experience the taste of shrimp, prioritizing safety over culinary exploration.
Young princesses are not allowed to wear tiaras until they are married
In the British Royal Family, the tradition dictates that only married individuals are allowed to wear tiaras. Despite being the Princess of Cambridge, Charlotte is prohibited from wearing these ornate headpieces until she is married. The same rule applies to Lilibet, who, with the passing of the Queen and Prince Charles becoming King, is now technically a princess. This means that both Charlotte and Lilibet cannot don tiaras for fun, as they have to wait until they are married to do so, adding a unique aspect to royal traditions.
All royal children are required to wear a gown dating back to the 19th century
One of the earliest events in a royal baby’s life is their baptism, and even for this occasion, there is a prescribed dress code. A longstanding tradition in the Royal Family, dating back to the era of Queen Victoria, is to baptize infants in the Honiton christening gown. The significance of this garment is so profound that a replica has been created, ensuring that future generations can continue this tradition. It’s a timeless ritual that each royal child is expected to uphold when baptizing their own children, marking the continuity of this meaningful practice.
Playdates for royal children come with top-notch security
While royal children, like any other kids, enjoy spending time with their friends, the process of arranging playdates involves additional precautions due to their status. Before inviting friends and their parents for a playdate, thorough security vetting is mandatory. Despite the added protocols, playdates are not out of the question for royal kids, as long as the necessary security measures are followed. The utmost priority is to ensure the protection of the royal children, allowing them to socialize with others as long as there is no perceived security threat.
Royal children are not permitted to express personal opinions
An essential rule for members of the royal family is to maintain impartiality, but occasional breaches occur, despite being discouraged. Prince William and Princess Kate faced criticism when they dressed Prince George in an England soccer jersey, revealing their apparent favoritism for the team, contrary to royal protocol. This incident highlighted a deviation from the expected neutrality, emphasizing the challenge of adhering to numerous protocols within the royal environment.
Young royals are required to greet the public with a distinctive wave
The Windsor wave is a notable tradition upheld by the British Royal Family, even among the youngest members. Children in the family are taught this specific wave for public greetings, aimed at preventing strain on their wrists from constant waving. The gesture, accompanied by a smile, is designed to convey just the right amount of attention without excessive excitement, maintaining an image of class and sophistication.
The royal boys are expected to fulfill military service as part of their responsibilities
Traditionally, boys in the Royal Family are expected to join the military, a tradition followed by Prince Harry, Prince William, and their father, Prince Charles. This expectation extends to Prince William’s sons, George and Louis, who, despite being young, are anticipated to serve once they reach the appropriate age. This commitment to military service is seen as a demonstration of dedication to their country. Following the pattern set by the men before them, it’s likely that they will attend university before joining the armed forces, adhering to strong family traditions.
The royal kids do not open any presents on Christmas Day
The Royal Family adheres to the German tradition of opening presents on Christmas Eve rather than Christmas Day, a practice maintained for generations. While unconventional to many, it means the royal children open their gifts earlier than most children who wait until Christmas Day. Additionally, all royal children are expected to attend a church service and have lunch on Christmas Day, where they have a designated table specifically for the junior royals. This differs from the typical family meals at home, highlighting the unique customs observed by the royals during the holiday season.
7-year-old Charlotte could receive the Princess Royal title in the future
Charlotte holds a unique position in the Royal Family. The Princess Royal title is reserved for one person at a time, and the current holder is Princess Anne. However, Charlotte is next in line for this title, which would mark a historic moment as Princess Anne has held it since 1987. If Charlotte eventually becomes the Princess Royal, she would be only the eighth person to do so. While she may not be fully aware of the responsibility and honorary role she might assume, for now, she remains a Princess, a distinction not many people can claim.
Despite residing in California, Archie and Lilibet are still eligible to receive royal treatment
Despite Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepping back from their royal duties, Archie and Lilibet are still considered part of the royal family and in the line of succession for the throne. While they currently live far from royalty in California, the expectation remains that, if necessary, they could be called upon to fulfill royal responsibilities. Although the future is uncertain, there is the possibility that Archie and Lilibet might one day be asked to return to Buckingham Palace as they grow older.
The youngest royals have their own security guards
The privilege of being part of the Royal Family comes with inherent risks, especially for the children. Due to past incidents of attempted kidnappings, the security of young royals, such as Prince George and Princess Charlotte, is of utmost importance. They already have dedicated personal security personnel who accompany them wherever they go. This stringent protocol prioritizes the safety of the youngest members of the royal family, and it’s a measure that will likely continue as they grow older.
Learning to curtsy is a skill expected from a very young age
Despite typical expectations for toddlers to engage in playful mischief, young members of the Royal Family are held to higher standards. From the age of five, they are required to learn and perform a curtsy when greeting the king or queen, mirroring the formalities expected from other family members. The situation might seem unusual when they’re addressing a family elder, such as their great-grandpa, with such formality, raising questions about how comfortable they may feel in these situations.
Royal children are expected to be proficient in multiple languages
While it’s not a strict rule with consequences, most royal children are encouraged to study multiple languages besides English. This practice is influenced by the late Queen’s fondness for the French language. Prince Charles, Prince William, and Kate are among those who also speak French. This tradition extends to the younger generation, as Prince George started learning Spanish at around two years old. Although there are no strict repercussions for not learning another language, it would be considered highly unusual within the royal family.
Calling the Queen “Grandma” is not allowed for royal children
Until very recently, when Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8th, 2022, royal grandchildren and great-grandchildren were prohibited from using the term “grandma” to refer to her. This tradition extends back to when Prince William and Prince Harry were children, and they, too, were not allowed to use the term. Instead, the Queen’s great-grandchildren and grandchildren affectionately referred to her as “Granny” or “Gan-Gan,” as noted by royal sources. It’s also known that Prince William used the playful term “Gary” for her. While it’s unclear if the current generation of royal kids uses the same nickname, it adds a personal touch to their relationship with the Queen.
Royal children often spend their childhood in the most luxurious properties
Royal children experience a childhood surrounded by opulence in some of the most sought-after properties. They are born in grand hospital rooms, and their luxurious lifestyle continues when they return home. For instance, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their children call Kensington Palace home. With over 20 rooms, including grand playrooms reminiscent of those enjoyed by Prince William and Prince Harry, the royal kids have access to a wealth of amenities, including numerous bedrooms, tennis courts, swimming pools, and more, ensuring an impressive and comfortable living environment.
Royals are required to obtain a driver’s license to drive, just like anyone else
In the United Kingdom, even members of the royal family, including the Queen, were once exempt from holding a driver’s license. However, this has changed, and currently, all family members, including the children, are required to study and take a driving test to obtain a license. This means that when Prince George and Prince Louis come of age, they will have to pass a driving test like any other UK citizen. While they enjoy numerous privileges, obtaining a driver’s license is a customary requirement that they must follow, just like other residents of the kingdom. Despite being part of the royal family, they will still go through the process of obtaining their licenses, possibly with access to the best driving lessons available.
Sending royal kids to school can be extremely expensive
Royal children follow the tradition of attending specific private schools, and this education can be exceptionally expensive. Instead of the previous tradition of private tutors, Prince Charles initiated the custom of sending royal children to actual schools. Notably, Princess Charlotte, Prince George, and Prince Louis attend such a school, which comes with substantial fees that their parents must cover each semester. The choice of private schools is driven by the need for enhanced security, ensuring that protection is provided at all times with security accompanying them daily. This lifestyle comes with its unique challenges and privileges.
The likelihood of Princess Charlotte becoming Queen
The line of succession is a significant aspect as it determines who could potentially ascend to the throne. Traditionally, any male family member would take precedence over female siblings, regardless of age. However, the Succession to the Crown Act, enacted in 2013, altered the rules for the British throne. As a result, Princess Charlotte now has a chance to inherit the throne before her younger brother, Louis. While the prospect of becoming Queen may seem like a weighty responsibility for a young royal, it is a customary aspect of their lives.
Even royal children need passports to travel
Despite the numerous privileges afforded to the children of the Royal Family, including frequent international travel, they are not exempt from the requirement of having a passport. Unlike the Queen and King, who can travel without passports, royal children are issued these documents from the moment they are born. While they may have the luxury of flying on private jets for their travels, proper documentation remains crucial, especially when accompanying their parents on global tours
The ranking of the Queen’s great-grandchildren in the line of succession
Prince Charles as the current monarch, followed by Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The specific position of individuals in the line of succession can change with events such as births and deaths within the Royal Family.
Regarding Prince Harry’s children, as of January 2022, Archie and Lilibet are in the line of succession, but their positions are further down due to the birth of other relatives. The line of succession does extend to Prince Harry’s children, but their chances of ascending to the throne are more remote, especially as additional heirs are born.
Diana made deliberate efforts to give her children a more ordinary upbringing
Princess Diana, a member of the Royal Family, emphasized the significance of providing her children, Prince William and Prince Harry, with a relatively normal childhood. She took them on excursions to theme parks and skiing, allowing them to experience a taste of normalcy and shielding them from certain pressures. This commitment to a balanced upbringing is evident in Prince William and Kate’s efforts to do the same for their children. Additionally, Prince Harry and Meghan stepped down from their royal duties to prioritize a normal childhood for their kids outside the UK.
Royal children can anticipate changes to their titles
Over time, the titles of children in the Royal Family can undergo continuous changes. The proximity to the throne often determines the number of titles they receive. In the case of Prince William, being next in line for the throne, his firstborn, Prince George, is likely to inherit titles like Duke of Cambridge. It’s customary for these children to use their titles rather than their last names. Alongside the titles, their position in the line of succession and associated royal duties may also evolve. While British nobility traditions may seem traditional, adherence to these practices is still expected for these royal children.
William and Kate encourage their children to embrace nature and experience a childhood like ordinary kids
Amidst the numerous rules and traditions that royal children are expected to follow, William and Kate believe in providing their kids with opportunities for a semblance of normalcy. While George, Charlotte, and Louis lead lives filled with honor and privileges, their parents strive to introduce elements of a typical childhood. Recognizing that, at their core, the children are kids first, William and Kate encourage outdoor activities and let them experience the joy of playing in nature without hesitation. It’s a small way of fostering a balance between their royal responsibilities and the simple pleasures of childhood.
Royal kids enjoy a multitude of perks while traveling that become a permanent part of their experiences
As royal children grow older, there’s a tradition of traveling separately from their father, but this transition comes with excellent perks. The privileges of royalty include first-class travel and the option to use private jets, a distinction that sets them apart from ordinary individuals who typically don’t have access to private air travel.
While the royal kids deserve the royal treatment, it’s worth noting that they are not strictly prohibited from opting for commercial flights if they ever choose to do so. The flexibility in travel arrangements reflects the blend of tradition and practicality within the Royal Family.
The birth of a royal child is a significant event that must be officially announced to the public
Upon the birth of a royal baby, there’s an immediate expectation to announce all the details to the world. This involves placing a sign outside Buckingham Palace revealing crucial information such as the birth details, the baby’s name, and gender. These guidelines are strictly followed, and it’s a tradition that has persisted.
While Prince William and Princess Kate adhered to this protocol seamlessly, Prince Harry and Meghan chose to keep the information hidden for a longer duration than the customary timeline. This departure from the norm garnered attention and added a unique twist to the usual royal birth announcements.
30+ Surprising Rules Only the Royal Children Have to Follow
Eduardo Gaskell
11.27.23
Growing up as a royal child isn’t as easy as it seems. The youngest members of the British Royal family must navigate endless rules, protocols, and dress codes for their entire lives. Discover some of the weirdest rules and hidden truths that shape their daily existence, unless they choose a dramatic exit like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
Strict No-Nonsense Training at Two
Royal children are introduced to numerous customs from a young age, including the tradition of curtseying to the sovereign, which begins as early as two years old. Their etiquette training covers public behavior, formal greetings, posture, handshakes, and even appropriate conversation topics, with the training lasting for years. Despite the extensive training, maintaining impeccable behavior can be challenging, as evidenced by a public moment where Prince Louis playfully thumbed his nose at Kate Middleton, suggesting that etiquette lessons may not always go smoothly.