21 of the Most Ridiculously Strict Rules the Royal Family Must Follow
Being part of the British royal family isn’t all tiaras and travel, you know. In fact, there are some pretty stringent—and strange—etiquette guidelines and traditions that the Windsors adhere to. Here, 21 of the most bonkers rules that the royal family follow.
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They Must Accept All Gifts Graciously
While the royal family has to accept every gift that they receive (even if it’s something super lame), it’s up to Queen Elizabeth who gets to keep which gift.
Prince Philip Is Required to Walk Behind the Queen
Since their marriage, Her Majesty’s husband must walk a few steps behind her at all times. Who run the world?
There’s a Strict Dress Code
Members of the royal family are expected to dress modestly and never overtly casual. (Serious question: Can you imagine a life without sweatpants?) That doesn’t mean that they can’t have some fun, though.
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They Can’t Just Propose Willy-Nilly
According to the Royal Marriages Act of 1772, royal descendants must seek the monarch’s approval before proposing. (Ahem, Harry and Meghan.)
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Two Heirs Cannot Fly Together
That’s in case something tragic were to happen. Once Prince George (who is third in line to the throne after Prince Charles and Prince William) turns 12, he will have to fly separately from his dad.
And They Always Travel with an All-Black Ensemble
The royal family is nothing if not prepared. A respectable all-black outfit is packed with them on their travels in case of a sudden death and they must attend a funeral.
PDA Is Frowned Upon
Although there is no formal law that forbids future monarchs from showing affection, Queen Elizabeth II set a precedent that encourages royals to keep their hands to themselves. Which is why you rarely see Prince William and Kate Middleton smooching in public, or even holding hands. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, on the other hand, are not under as much pressure to adhere to this protocol.
No Politics Allowed
Members of the royal family are not allowed to vote or even publicly express their opinion on political matters.
When the Queen Stands, So Do You
And don’t even think about sitting until Her Majesty has done so.
But the Queen is Not Allowed to Sit on a Foreign Throne
Even if the throne is from the Seven Kingdoms.
They Leave the Table Discreetly
If a royal must use the restroom during a meal, they don’t announce it to the table. Instead, they apparently simply say “Excuse me,” and that’s that. (If only your toddler would do the same.)
You Must Address Royals Properly
This one’s a little confusing. Apparently, when you first meet the queen, you should address her as “Your Majesty” and then “Ma'am.” For other female members of the royal family, you should use “Your Royal Highness,” and then again “Ma'am” in later conversation. For male royals, it's “Your Royal Highness” and then “Sir.” And under no circumstances should you address the queen as “Liz.”
There Are No Autographs or Selfies Allowed
So put that selfie stick away.
Tiaras Are Only Worn by Married Women
No ring? No tiara.
They Rarely Eat Shellfish
This isn’t a requirement, but a wise rule that many royals, including Queen Elizabeth, adhere to because of the increased likelihood of food poisoning.
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Curtsies Are Encouraged
While the official website for the British Monarchy says that there are “no obligatory codes of behaviour when meeting the queen or a member of the Royal Family,” it also states that many people wish to observe the traditional forms. That means a neck bow (from the head only) for men and a small curtsy for women.
When the Queen Finishes Eating, Then So Must You
Dining with royalty? No extra portions for you.
The Queen Signals When a Conversation Is Over
If you see Her Majesty move her purse from her left arm to her right, then it’s time to stop talking. That apparently signals to her staff that she’s ready to move on.
Six Ravens Must Live at the Tower of London
According to legend, at least six ravens must remain at the giant fortress or else the monarchy will fall. But no one actually believes that, do they? Well, apparently so, since there are indeed seven (one spare) birds living at the Tower currently.
Royal Wedding Bouquets Contain Myrtle
This tradition started with Queen Victoria and continued with the Duchess of Cambridge's marriage in 2011. This pretty flower symbolizes good luck in love and marriage. Aww...
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They’re Not Allowed to Play Monopoly
When the Duke of York was presented with the board game, he revealed that it’s forbidden in the royal household because “it gets too vicious.” Royals—they’re just like us.
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