Succeeding to his father's titles at the age of six, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, has held his dukedom for over 84 years. Born at Belgrave Square in 1935, the eldest son of Prince George and Princess Marina, he occupies a central position within the British royal family as a grandson of King George V.
Formative Years and Early Titles
The Duke's education began at Ludgrove, followed by studies at Eton College and Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland. In August 1942, his father was killed in a plane crash in Scotland, an event that instantly elevated the young prince to the positions of Duke of Kent, Earl of St Andrews, and Baron Downpatrick. He soon began participating in public ceremonial roles, including walking behind the coffin of his uncle, George VI, at the 1952 state funeral.
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Graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1955, Edward entered the Royal Scots Greys as a second lieutenant. Over a two-decade tenure, he attained the rank of lieutenant colonel. His postings included service in Hong Kong and Cyprus, the latter involving participation in the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus. In 1971, he was deployed to Northern Ireland, though his presence there was restricted following security concerns. He retired from active duty in 1976 and was later granted the honorary ranks of major-general and field marshal.
Public Life and Appointments
Beyond his military service, the Duke has maintained extensive associations with over 140 charitable organizations. He served as president of the Royal Television Society and currently holds the presidency of the Royal United Services Institute and the Royal Institution of Great Britain. Since 1967, he has functioned as the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England. Additionally, he has been the Chancellor of the University of Surrey since June 1976.
Personal Life and Residence
In 1961, Edward married Katharine Worsley at York Minster. The couple resided at Coppins, Anmer Hall, and York House before settling at Wren House in Kensington Palace. They have three children: George, Helen, and Nicholas. Katharine passed away in 2025, leaving the Duke as the oldest living member of the British royal family.
Fast facts
- Born: 9 October 1935, Belgrave Square
- Current Title: Duke of Kent
- Education: Eton College, Institut Le Rosey, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst
- Military Rank: Field Marshal
- Marriage: Katharine Worsley, 1961
- Languages: English, French
- Royal Connection: Grandson of George V
- Residence: Wren House, Kensington Palace
Questions readers ask
How long has Prince Edward held his dukedom?
He has held the title of Duke of Kent since 1942, a period exceeding 84 years.
Did Prince Edward serve in the military?
Yes, he served for over 20 years in the Royal Scots Greys, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel and later receiving honorary promotions to field marshal.
Achievements
- Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order
- Knight Grand Cross of the Order of St Michael and St George
- Educated at Eton College, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and Ludgrove School
- Worked as military personnel, aristocrat and military commander
