The Line of Succession Explained

The Royal Library / Succession

The Line of Succession Explained

Prince William is first in line to the British throne. His children, George, Charlotte and Louis, follow him. Prince Harry and his children come next. The order is about who could inherit the Crown, not who carries out the most royal engagements.

Order checked against the Royal Household on September 27, 2026.

The first seven places

  1. Prince William, The Prince of Wales
  2. Prince George of Wales
  3. Princess Charlotte of Wales
  4. Prince Louis of Wales
  5. Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex
  6. Prince Archie of Sussex
  7. Princess Lilibet of Sussex

For the complete, current list, consult the Royal Household’s succession page.

What is the line of succession?

It is the order in which eligible members of the Royal Family stand to inherit the throne. Family descent matters, but the rules are also shaped by Acts of Parliament. The order can change, which is why a dated list is more useful than a chart presented as permanent.

Why do William’s children follow him?

William is the eldest son of King Charles III and the heir to the throne. His children follow him in birth order: George, Charlotte and Louis. Harry, the King’s younger son, follows that branch of the family. Harry’s children, Archie and Lilibet, come after him.

Why is Charlotte ahead of Louis?

Older succession rules could place a younger son ahead of an older daughter. The Succession to the Crown Act 2013 ended that preference for people born after October 28, 2011. Charlotte therefore stays ahead of her younger brother Louis. The Royal Household’s explanation of succession sets out that change.

Does being a working royal affect the order?

No. A place in the line of succession and a public role are separate things. Harry and his children remain on the official list even though he does not carry out duties as a working member of the Royal Family. A title, by itself, is not a guide to someone’s position in the order either. Our royal titles guide explains the distinction.

When can the order change?

Births, deaths, the accession of a new monarch and changes in law can alter the list. Before relying on an older article or graphic, check the Royal Household’s current version. Royally Inspired will update this guide when a meaningful change occurs.

Frequently asked questions

Who is next in line after King Charles III?

Prince William, The Prince of Wales, is first in line.

Are Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis all in the line of succession?

Yes. They currently hold the second, third and fourth places, in that order.

Is Princess Anne ahead of Prince Harry?

No. The official list places Harry fifth and Anne farther down the order. For the full sequence, including the wider family, use the Royal Household’s current list.

Sources and updates

This guide was checked on September 27, 2026 against the Royal Household’s succession list and explanation of the rules. Titles and the order can change, so the source should be checked again whenever this page is updated.

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