This fulfilled a long-held wish of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Consequently, their only son now carries the courtesy title of James, Earl of Wessex. However, the 1917 Letters Patent issued by King George V offer the possibility of Lady Louise being known as "Her Royal Highness Princess Louise."
These letters patents were intended to reduce the number of family members holding royal titles, restricting the use of HRH (Her Royal Highness) and Prince or Princess to children and grandchildren of monarchs in the male line. While this may seem incongruent with 21st-century notions of equality, it opens the door to having a princess ranked at number 15 in the line of succession.
Lady Louise Windsor, aged 19, was recently seen enjoying the final days of her summer break before returning to the University for her second year. The eldest child of the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh participated in the Windsor Carriage Driving event, where she demonstrated her skill by leading a horse around the arena. Dressed smartly in a long gray jacket with a white collared shirt underneath, she wore a riding helmet and glasses.
Lady Louise, who studies English at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, follows in the footsteps of her grandfather, the Duke of Edinburgh, who was an accomplished carriage driver. She inherited his driving ponies and carriage following Prince Philip's passing in April 2021.
Prince Philip was instrumental in bringing the sport of carriage driving to the UK, transitioning from polo in 1971. He represented Britain in three European championships and six World championships. Lady Louise, in her first television interview in September 2021, expressed her love for the sport and discussed the close bond she shared with her grandfather. She mentioned that Prince Philip had been actively involved in her carriage driving, which she found both lovely and slightly intimidating since he was essentially the sport's pioneer. She cherished the opportunity to learn directly from him, strengthening their relationship.
In a May 2020 interview, Prince Edward praised Lady Louise's natural talent for carriage driving, highlighting her remarkable aptitude for the sport.
