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The royal family has been around for thousands of years with there being 63 monarchs of England and Britain over a period of about 1,200 of those.

Nowadays, the monarchy is more modernised with King Charles III reigning.

Royal family standing on the Buckingham Palace balcony at Trooping the Colour
The royal family is known worldwide (Credit: Cover Images)

Senior members of the royal family

Over the years, the royal family has slimmed down with now only a select few considered as senior royals.

Of course, King Charles is head of the monarchy and his wife became Queen Camilla after Queen Elizabeth II’s death in September 2022.

Charles’ son Prince William and his wife Kate, Princess of Wales, are also senior members of the family.

The king’s only sister, Princess Anne, is also a senior royal.

Charles’ youngest brother Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, make up the senior royals.

Outside view of Buckingham Palace
The royals have many residences dotted around the UK (Credit: Cover Images)

Royal residences

There are several royal residences owned by the monarchy.

From the famous Buckingham Palace – of course known worldwide – to Windsor Castle, the palaces and castles have been around for hundreds of years.

We’ve seen them host some of the royal family’s most historic events including weddings and funerals.

Balmoral Castle has also become a significant residence after Queen Elizabeth II died there.

King Charles and Queen Camilla waving on palace balcony at Trooping the Colour
The royals attend many events across the year (Credit: Cover Images)

Royal diary

Across the 12 months of the year, several big events take place in which the royal family attends.

From Royal Ascot and Trooping the Colour to Remembrance Day, the monarchy celebrates and marks a string of historical events annually.

And they are the perfect time for fans to get a good glimpse at the monarchy – and enjoy mischievous moments from younger members of the family (*cough* Prince Louis *cough*).

Royal family’s worth

The royal family is said to be worth billions. Estimates online suggest the monarchy could be worth around £22billion.

The royal family receives an annual payment from the government – known as the Sovereign Grant – that funds the monarch’s official duties and the maintenance of the royal palaces.

Meanwhile, King Charles and his son Prince William earn incomes through the Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall – which are private estates.

Royal family health

Over the years, some members of the royal family have dealt with health issues.

In 2024, King Charles and the Princess of Wales were diagnosed with cancer and underwent treatment. The princess announced she had completed her treatment in September of that year.

At the time of writing, the king is still undergoing treatment.

Elsewhere, some of members of the family have had health problems including Princess Anne who suffered a horse accident in 2024 and Queen Camilla who battled pneumonia the same year.

Members of the royal family on palace balcony at Trooping the Colour
Prince William is heir to the throne (Credit: Cover Images)

Royal family line of succession

The royal family line of succession has many, many family members included.

King Charles III is the current monarch and his eldest son Prince William is the current heir to the throne.

William and Kate’s three children follow with Prince George being second in line, Princess Charlotte third and Prince Louis is fourth.

Meanwhile, Charles’ youngest son Prince Harry is fifth in line followed by his children – Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

You can view the full royal line of succession here.