When Prince William and Kate Middleton travel to Scotland, they don’t just switch locations, they also adopt new names and titles steeped in Scottish history and tradition. This unique practice dates back centuries and reflects Scotland’s distinct royal heritage.
Before ascending to the throne, King Charles bestowed upon Prince William and Kate Middleton the titles of Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. These titles, familiar to many, represented their status in England. However, in Scotland, the couple assumes entirely different roles and titles.
In Scotland, Prince William becomes the Duke of Rothesay, a title reserved traditionally for the heir apparent to the Scottish throne since 1469. Catherine, in turn, assumes the role of Duchess of Rothesay. These titles reflect Scotland’s unique royal lineage and are part of a broader array of honors bestowed upon the couple.
King Charles formally declared Prince William as the holder of these Scottish titles during his inaugural speech on September 9th, 2022, following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. “As my heir, William now assumes the Scottish titles which have meant so much to me,” the king stated in his address to the nation, highlighting the significance of these titles within the royal family.
Beyond their roles as Duke and Duchess of Rothesay, Prince William and Kate Middleton hold several other Scottish titles. They are also known as Earl and Countess of Strathearn, reflecting their ties to specific regions within Scotland. Moreover, Prince William holds titles such as Earl of Carrick, Baron of Renfrew, Lord of the Isles and Prince and Great Steward of Scotland, further emphasizing his integral role within Scotland’s royal lineage.
The adoption of these Scottish titles garnered attention and curiosity as the Royal Family prepared for Holyrood Week events in Scotland. Prince William, alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla, participated in the Thistle Service at St Giles’ Cathedral on July 3, marking a significant cultural event in Scotland’s royal calendar.
Prince Harry also received Scottish titles prior to his marriage to Meghan Markle in 2018. He was granted the titles Earl of Dumbarton and Duke of Sussex, with Meghan poised to become the Countess of Dumbarton. However, the couple relinquished these titles when they chose to step back from their royal duties.
The adoption of Scottish titles by members of the Royal Family when visiting Scotland underscores the nation’s rich history and distinct cultural traditions. These titles not only honor Scotland’s heritage but also symbolize the enduring ties between the Royal Family and the Scottish people. This unique practice serves as a reminder of the multifaceted roles and responsibilities carried by members of the Royal Family across different regions of the United Kingdom.
