Monarchy is built on tradition, and naming is no exception. In Britain’s royal family, clear patterns and customs have guided the names of those crowned king.
Despite the fact that when they're born future monarchs have no power over the names they are given, they do have some say over their regal name – the name they use as king or queen.
A monarch can choose any of their given names. For example, Queen Victoria was christened Alexandrina Victoria but chose her second name, Victoria.
Some names carry historical weight or signal continuity with past rulers. Edward VII chose Edward, a name with a long history in England. George VI chose George to maintain continuity with his father, George V.
Today, monarchs often pick a name by which they are already widely known to avoid confusion. King Charles III kept his first name as his regnal name, despite Charles being historically an unlucky name for a king.
Charles I is best remembered for being overthrown by Oliver Cromwell and executed. Charles II was considered unlucky as he had no legitimate heir, and his reign saw both the Great Plague of 1665 and the Great Fire of London in 1666.
What are the most common names for a king?
Henry – 8 kings
The name Henry has been one of the most popular in English and later British history. From Henry I, the youngest son of William the Conqueror, to the infamous Henry VIII.
Edward – 8 kings
Edward is a long-favoured royal name. From Edward I 'Longshanks', famous for his lofty height, to Edward VIII who abdicated to marry American divorcée Wallis Simpson.
James – 7 kings
There have been two Kings named James of England, but seven Kings of Scotland named James. The two countries shared a monarch when James VI of Scotland also became James I of England in 1603.
George – 6 kings
Since the Hanoverian succession in 1714, George has been the dominant name for British kings. Will Prince George of Wales someday be the seventh King George?
William – 4 kings
Starting with William the Conqueror in 1066, the name William has been associated with conquest and strong leadership. Will the Prince of Wales be the fifth King William?
- What will the Prince of Wales be known as when he is King?
- What will the Princess of Wales be known as when she becomes queen?
Charles – 3 kings
Charles is less common but historically notable, with Charles I’s turbulent reign ending in execution and Charles II presiding over the Restoration. Charles III's reign so far seems relatively peaceful in comparison.
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