British Royalty and Nobility: Do Dukes and Earls Still Matter?

If you’ve ever watched a coronation or seen a fancy title on a TV drama, you might wonder if dukes and earls are real today or just costume props. The short answer: they’re real, but their role is mostly ceremonial. Let’s break down what that means for you, especially if you’re curious about the British peerage.

What the Peerage Looks Like Today

The British peerage system dates back centuries, with titles like duke, marquess, earl, viscount, and baron handed down through families. Most of those titles still exist, but they don’t run the country anymore. Power lives in elected bodies, not in hereditary seats. Still, many title‑holders own historic estates, sit on charity boards, and appear at state events.

For example, the Duke of Norfolk still holds a role in the House of Lords, but he’s one of a handful of hereditary peers who keep a seat after the 1999 reform. The rest of the titles are largely honorific – think of them as a badge of history rather than a job description.

People with these titles often use them socially. You’ll hear “Lord” or “Lady” at formal dinners, and the titles can open doors in certain circles. But if you ask a duke to sign a piece of legislation, the answer will be a polite “no, that’s not my job.”

How New Titles Are Created

Creating a new duke or earl isn’t as simple as picking a name. The monarch alone can grant a peerage, and that power is exercised sparingly. Most new titles are awarded for exceptional public service, military bravery, or contributions to the arts. The last non‑hereditary dukedom was given in 1999, so it’s a rare event.

If someone is honoured with a life peerage, they get a seat in the House of Lords but not a hereditary title. That’s why you’ll hear “Baroness” or “Lord” attached to a person’s name without any family legacy behind it.

So, why does any of this matter to you? If you’re a motorsport fan reading Revved Racing Rides, you probably enjoy the drama of speed and tradition. The British nobility adds a layer of tradition to the same world – think of the royal family at historic race events like the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Understanding who’s who helps you catch those little cultural cues the next time you watch a race or read a story about a prince’s favorite motorbike.

Bottom line: dukes and earls are still around, but they’re mostly symbolic figures who keep the country’s history alive. They don’t run the government, and new titles are a rarity reserved for exceptional service. Knowing this gives you a better grasp of the British aristocracy’s place in modern life, whether you’re chatting at a race weekend or scrolling through a motorsport article.