Monarch
King Charles III (reigned 2022–present)
King Charles III became the UK's monarch on 8 September 2022 following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, after serving as heir apparent for more than 70 years.
Succeeding Queen Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth II died on 8 September 2022 at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. Her son Charles immediately became King as King Charles III, in accordance with the rules of succession. He was the oldest person ever to accede to the British throne.
Charles III was formally crowned at his Coronation at Westminster Abbey on 6 May 2023, alongside his wife, Queen Camilla.
The Line of Succession
The heir apparent to King Charles III is his son William, Prince of Wales. William is married to Catherine, Princess of Wales, and they have three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
The title of Prince of Wales is traditionally given to the heir apparent to the British throne. William became Prince of Wales in 2022 following his father's accession.
The Role of the Monarch
The UK is a constitutional monarchy. The monarch is the head of state, but the day-to-day running of the country is carried out by the elected government. The monarch's role includes opening Parliament, granting Royal Assent to bills passed by Parliament, and representing the country at home and abroad.
King Charles III is also the head of the Commonwealth, an association of 56 countries, most of which were formerly part of the British Empire.
Key facts for the test
- • Queen Elizabeth II died on 8 September 2022
- • Her son Charles III immediately became King on that date
- • The heir apparent to King Charles III is his son William, Prince of Wales
- • The UK is a constitutional monarchy — the monarch is head of state but does not govern
- • The monarch grants Royal Assent to bills passed by Parliament
- • The King is head of the Commonwealth
Test yourself
Questions about the current monarchy appear in the Life in the UK Test.
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