He is England's highest-ranking non-royal peer

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: As the 18th Duke of Norfolk, Edward Fitzalan-Howard holds one of Britain's most significant hereditary offices. From arranging royal coronations to overseeing English heraldry, his role as Earl Marshal places him at the very heart of the United Kingdom's most solemn state ceremonies.

Edward Fitzalan-Howard, born on 2 December 1956, serves as the titular head of the House of Howard. He inherited the Dukedom of Norfolk in 2002 following the death of his father, Miles Francis Stapleton Fitzalan-Howard, the 17th Duke. This legacy included various baronies, earldoms, and the hereditary role of Earl Marshal, a Great Officer of State. He was educated at Ampleforth College before attending Lincoln College, Oxford. He is also the most senior Catholic layman in England.

In his capacity as Earl Marshal, the Duke is responsible for organizing major state occasions, including the accession and coronation of King Charles III, as well as the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II held on 19 September 2022. Beyond ceremonial duties, the office makes him a hereditary judge of the Court of Chivalry and the head of the College of Arms, which manages heraldry across England, Wales, and parts of the Commonwealth of Nations. In 2003, the Scout Movement presented him with the Medal of Merit for Services. Additionally, he serves as a Patron for West Sussex County Scouts.

The Duke's personal life and political involvement have occasionally drawn attention. In the House of Lords, his parliamentary contributions have been limited, with only twelve votes cast, primarily in opposition to hunting restrictions. His complex personal history includes a marriage to Georgina Susan Gore that ended in a final divorce in 2022, after which he married Francesca Herbert on 12 November 2022. Despite his high status, he has faced legal challenges, including a six-month driving disqualification in 2022 following a driving offence committed in April of that year. He was appointed a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order during the 2022 Birthday Honours. His current residence is Arundel Castle.

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