Prince William and Kate Middleton recently visited Scotland, where many people noticed they were being referred to by different titles. During their engagements in Stirling and Falkirk, they were introduced as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay instead of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
The change follows another important royal update. Earlier this year, King Charles III granted William and Kate the role of Grantors of Royal Warrants, allowing them to officially recognize brands and companies that have supplied goods or services to their household over a qualifying period.
According to the Royal Warrant Holders Association, Royal Warrants are awarded to individuals or companies that have provided goods or services to the Grantor’s Household for at least five years within the previous seven years. Warrant holders are then permitted to display the Royal Arms on their products, packaging, advertising, stationery, premises, and vehicles for five years.
The title Duke and Duchess of Rothesay has a much older history. It is traditionally used when the heir to the British throne is in Scotland.
Royal author Robert Jobson explained that north of the English border, the Prince and Princess of Wales are known as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay. The title dates back to a time when Scotland was a separate kingdom before its union with England.
Created in 1396, the title has traditionally been passed to the heir apparent of the Scottish Crown. Under the traditional rules, it passes to the eldest male heir, meaning Prince George is expected to inherit it when Prince William becomes king.
In addition to being the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate also hold the titles Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and Earl and Countess of Chester.
When Prince William eventually becomes king, the couple’s titles will change once again as they become King William and Queen Catherine, continuing the long tradition of the British royal family.