Princess Anne’s decision to decline royal titles for her children, Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall, has long intrigued fans of the British royal family. Born to Princess Anne and her ex-husband Captain Mark Phillips—Peter in November 1977 and Zara in May 1981—both siblings have carved out successful careers without the honour of royal titles.
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The choice not to bestow titles upon her children was made in line with Princess Anne’s views on the potential drawbacks of royal status. When Peter and Zara were born, they were ineligible for royal titles by birth, as such honours typically extend only to the monarch’s grandchildren through sons. Although Queen Elizabeth II offered Princess Anne royal titles for her children, she chose to decline.
In a candid interview with Vanity Fair in May 2020, Princess Anne remarked, “I think it was probably easier for them. Most people would argue that there are downsides to having titles. So I think that was probably the right thing to do.” This perspective has resonated with both Peter and Zara, who have embraced lives away from the constraints that often accompany royal titles.
Currently, Peter Phillips ranks 19th, while Zara Tindall is 22nd in the line of succession to the British throne. Notably, they are not the only royal family members without official titles. Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, Queen Elizabeth’s granddaughters, also did not receive titles at their weddings, meaning their children likewise lack royal titles.
In their personal lives, both Peter and Zara have pursued successful careers. Peter has worked in sports management for several high-profile organisations, including Williams F1 and Jaguar, before establishing his own firm in 2012. He shares two daughters, Savannah and Isla, with his former wife Autumn Phillips and is now engaged to Harriet Sperling.
Zara Tindall, on the other hand, is well-known in the equestrian world, having won a silver medal in the equestrian team event at the 2012 London Olympics. She married ex-rugby player Mike Tindall in 2011 and is a devoted mother to their three children, Mia, Lena, and Lucas.
Despite the absence of titles, both siblings have remained active participants in royal functions. They have made appearances at significant events such as Trooping the Colour—an annual celebration honouring the monarch’s birthday—and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. Their shared love of equestrian activities has also made them familiar faces at horse racing events, including Royal Ascot.
Expressing gratitude for their upbringing without titles, Zara Tindall has openly stated that she feels “lucky” to have had such freedom. In an interview with The Times, she reflected on how the absence of an official title allowed her and Peter to pursue their individual passions. Zara reiterated her appreciation for her mother’s decision during an appearance on the Seven: Rob Burrow podcast, emphasising that it allowed them to “do it a bit, our own way.”
Family value is a hallmark of the Tindall household, as highlighted by Mike Tindall’s comments regarding royal titles. He stated in April 2025 that if he were to be offered a title, he would “definitely turn it down,” further illustrating the family’s commitment to living life authentically, beyond royal protocols.
As for the next generation, neither Peter Phillips nor Zara Tindall’s children hold royal titles, as titles do not descend unless granted. Nevertheless, they participate readily in significant royal events, contributing to the family’s longstanding traditions. Zara expressed hope that the work ethic instilled by their family would carry on to her children, emphasizing a desire to raise them with values that transcend royal titles.
In summary, Princess Anne’s choice to decline royal titles for her children has allowed Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall to navigate their lives with a unique blend of freedom and established royal connections. This decision reflects on the evolving nature of royal identity within the modern context, showcasing how personal values can inspire substantial familial legacy.