Who Is King Charles III?

Charles was a little boy and, just like any other little boy, loved toy cars! But he was not just like any other little boy as he was born to a Princess and was, himself, a Prince!

1. King Charles III was born at 9.14pm on 14 November 1948

to parents Queen Elizabeth II (then Princess Elizabeth) and Prince Phillip, the Duke of Edinburgh, at Buckingham Palace, London. 

2. He became King on 8 September 2022

after his mother the Queen (below, left) sadly passed away in Balmoral, Scotland. Aged 73, King Charles III is the oldest monarch ever crowned in British history, having been heir apparent (the next person to be crowned) since he was 3 years old. 

3. From 1967 to 1970, he studied history at Cambridge University 

making him the first monarch in UK history with a university degree! 

4. King Charles III can speak Welsh

after spending two months learning the language as he prepared to become the Prince of Wales in 1969. He still speaks it today, while visiting and addressing the country.

5. The King is a qualified pilot and diver

while serving in the military, King Charles III trained as a jet and helicopter pilot and became an accomplished diver. He’s even explored shipwrecks like The Mary Rose –  King Henry VIII’s flagship! 

6. Plus, he’s a keen watercolour painter

as well as a published author and music lover, playing the cello in his university orchestra.

7. As Prince of Wales, he founded nearly 20 charities

which together raise £140 million each year for good causes! He’s also passionate about the environment – as Prince, he spoke out about plastic pollution as early as 1970, drove an electric car and planted many trees during royal engagements.

9. King Charles III is no stranger to an audience

having featured in UK TV show Coronation Street, participated in stage magicians’ group the Magic Circle and presented the BBC weather forecast.

10. His son, Prince William, is next in line for the throne

The King has two children – Princes William and Harry – and five grandchildren. Prince William (below, right) is next in line to become King, and was named the Prince of Wales in 2022. 

Oh, what a week we have in store!

The King’s Coronation will take place on Saturday, 6th May!