5 Royal Traditions King Charles Has Passed Down to William So Far

The royal crown comes with its own responsibilities, and while Prince William has always voiced his intention to modernize the monarchy when he becomes King, some traditions cannot be overruled. From important royal titles to estates and military roles, William has already inherited several traditions and responsibilities that once belonged to his father, King Charles. Some of these changes happened when Charles became king in 2022, while others are part of a much longer royal tradition. Here are five things Charles has passed down to William so far.

While palaces and private estates look luxurious, they are quite hard to manage, and when William takes over the throne, he will also have to shoulder the responsibilities for the Duchy of Cornwall. It is a huge private estate that provides income to the heir to the throne. Charles managed the estate for more than 50 years and used its income to support his work and charitable interests. After Charles, William is to now manage the estate, properties, and finances, which is one of the most crucial aspects of his financial independence as the future King.

Charles was known for holding the title of Prince of Wales for more than 60 years before becoming king. After his accession, he passed the title to William, making him the new Prince of Wales. The title comes with more than just a royal name. It gives William an important public role and connects him with Wales, where he and Princess Kate have carried out official visits and engagements. It is also a clear sign of William's position as the next in line to the throne. While William already has the title, in the future he is deemed to inherit several more such titles with the crown.

Along with traditional titles, William has also inherited important military connections from his father. In 2024, Charles appointed him as the Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps, a role which was previously held by Charles himself. While the appointment was a natural transition, it is also fitting because William served in the Royal Air Force and trained as a search-and-rescue pilot. His military background has always been an important part of his royal identity, making the role a natural continuation of his father's connection with the armed forces.

William also became Colonel of the Welsh Guards, another role that Charles previously held. The Welsh Guards have a long association with the Royal Family, and the position allows William to maintain a close relationship with the regiment. For William, it is another responsibility that connects his royal duties with the British military and with Wales.

Whenever William is in Scotland, he is known by a different title: the Duke of Rothesay. This title was previously used by Charles when he was heir to the throne. This title is a reminder that William's role changes slightly depending on where he is carrying out royal duties. By taking on the title, he has continued a tradition that has linked generations of British heirs to Scotland. While William will eventually create his own path as king, much of the foundation has already been passed down by his father.