Peter Phillips: Who Is the Queen's Eldest Grandchild?

Peter Phillips, born on 15 November 1977, is the eldest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, and the only child of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips. Unique among his royal cousins, Peter holds no royal title — a deliberate decision by his parents — making him the highest-ranking untitled person in the British line of succession. Despite his proximity to the Crown, he has built a private, largely commercial career far from the palace spotlight.

Why Does Peter Phillips Have No Royal Title?

When Peter was born, Queen Elizabeth II offered titles to Princess Anne's children, but Anne and Mark Phillips declined on purpose. They wanted their children to grow up as normally as possible, outside the formal constraints of royal life. Under Letters Patent issued by King George V in 1917, the title 'Prince' or 'Princess' would have been available to grandchildren of the sovereign through the male line — but not automatically through daughters. The Queen's offer was therefore a special dispensation, and Anne's refusal was a conscious parenting choice that Peter has said he respects. His sister Zara Tindall (née Phillips) similarly has no title.

Peter Phillips' Career and Personal Life

Peter studied sports science at the University of Exeter, graduating in 2000. He worked in sports management and event marketing, including roles with Williams F1 and RBS. He later served as Commercial Director of the Silverstone motor racing circuit. In 2008, he married Canadian Autumn Kelly in a ceremony at St George's Chapel, Windsor — the same chapel later used for Prince Harry's 2018 wedding. The couple had two daughters: Savannah (born 2010) and Isla (born 2012). Peter and Autumn announced their separation in 2020 and their divorce was finalised in 2021. Peter attracted controversy in 2020 when he appeared in a Chinese milk advertisement, a move criticised as exploiting his royal connections for commercial gain.

Peter Phillips' Place in the Royal Family Today

Peter Phillips stands 17th in the line of succession to the British throne as of 2024. He is a regular presence at royal events — seen at Trooping the Colour, Royal Ascot, and prominently walking alongside Prince William and King Charles III in Queen Elizabeth II's funeral procession in September 2022. He was one of eight grandchildren who held a vigil around the Queen's coffin at Westminster Hall. Although he undertakes no official royal duties, Peter is considered a trusted family member who bridges the working royals and private life. He currently manages Gatcombe Park events, the Gloucestershire estate owned by Princess Anne.