Figures from 2024 have confirmed that The Princess Royal is the hardest-working member of the Royal Family, having undertaken an impressive 474 engagements across the UK and overseas. Renowned for her unwavering dedication and commitment to public service, Princess Anne’s position at the top of the list comes as little surprise to royal watchers and commentators.
The year 2024 has proven to be particularly challenging for the Royal Family, marked by significant health issues affecting two senior members. His Majesty The King and the Princess of Wales have both been undergoing treatment for cancer, necessitating a redistribution of royal duties among other family members. This shift has underscored the importance of collaborative effort within the monarchy, as various royals have stepped in to support the King and Catherine during their recovery.
The King and The Princess Royal after the Coronation. (Royal Family).
In second place in the 2024 hardest working royal engagement tally is The King himself, who managed to complete 372 engagements despite his health challenges. Diagnosed with cancer at the beginning of the year, His Majesty reduced his public-facing appearances but maintained his constitutional responsibilities, including receiving his daily red box of government papers. The only days King Charles refrains from official duties remain Christmas Day and Sundays, reflecting his steadfast dedication to his role.
Here’s the full list of the Royal Family ranked to see who was the hardest working royal:
– 1st: Princess Anne undertook 474 engagements
– 2nd: The King performed 372 engagements
– 3rd: The Duke of Edinburgh carried out 293 visits
– 4th: The Duchess of Edinburgh had 257 engagements
– 5th: The Duke of Gloucester undertook 216 engagements
– 6th: Queen Camilla carried out 182 engagements
– 7th: The Prince of Wales completed 166 engagements
– 8th: The Duchess of Gloucester carried out 98 engagements
– 9th: The Duke of Kent carried out 97 engagements
– 10th: The Princess of Wales completed 13 engagements
Image Licensed to i-Images Picture Agency. 15/06/2024. London, United Kingdom. King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince George, Princess Charlotte ,Prince Louis, Prince Edward and Sophie and Lady Louise on the balcony of Buckingham Palace at Trooping the Colour in London. Picture by Stephen Lock / i-Images
A notable shift in this year’s engagement rankings has been the increased presence of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh. Their expanded schedule reflects their growing prominence in royal affairs, stepping in for The King when he was unable to attend events. One significant example was their participation in the parade at Buckingham Palace commemorating the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale, highlighting their evolving roles within the Firm.
Meanwhile, the Princess of Wales has maintained a limited public profile in 2024, focusing on her recovery from cancer treatment. Despite this, she made select appearances at key events, including Trooping the Colour and her annual Together at Christmas carol service, reassuring the public of her gradual return to royal duties.
Royals attend the Christmas Day church service at Sandringham
Other members of the Royal Family have also increased their public engagements, ensuring continuity and stability during a turbulent year. The Prince of Wales has played a pivotal role, balancing his royal responsibilities with providing support to his wife and young family. William became the first member of the Royal Family to meet US President Elect Donald Trump following his election win in November.
As the Royal Family navigates these personal and public challenges, their collective resilience and commitment to service continue to resonate with the public, reinforcing the institution’s enduring relevance in modern Britain.
The research was conducted by Tim O’Donavan for his annual assessment in The Times.
