Prince Louis of Wales is a member of the British Royal Family, currently fourth in the line of succession to the British throne as of April 2026. Born on April 23, 2018, as the third and youngest child of William, Prince of Wales, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, Louis has captured public affection with his spirited personality and memorable appearances at major national events. In 2026, the eight-year-old Prince is a student at Lambrook School in Berkshire, where he attends alongside his older siblings, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. While his parents prioritize a “normal” childhood focused on education and outdoor play, Louis has begun taking on more visible roles at family events, including the 2026 Easter service at Windsor and Trooping the Colour. This article provides a comprehensive look at Prince Louis’ upbringing, his place in the monarchy, his education, and what the public can expect from the young Prince in the coming years.
Birth and Early Infancy
Prince Louis Arthur Charles was born at 11:01 am on St George’s Day, April 23, 2018, at the Lindo Wing of St Mary’s Hospital in London. Weighing 8lb 7oz, he was the third child born to the then-Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
His name, announced four days after his birth, honors his paternal grandfather, King Charles III, and his 3rd-great-uncle, Lord Louis Mountbatten. Louis was christened on July 9, 2018, by the Archbishop of Canterbury at the Chapel Royal, St James’s Palace, wearing a replica of the royal christening gown. His early years were split between the family’s London residence at Kensington Palace and their country home, Anmer Hall in Norfolk, where he was often photographed by his mother, an avid photographer, to mark his birthdays.
Education at Lambrook School
In 2026, Prince Louis is firmly settled into his primary education at Lambrook School, an independent co-educational preparatory school in the Berkshire countryside. The family relocated to Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park in 2022 to facilitate this move.
Academic Life: At eight years old, Louis is in Year 3 (or equivalent), following a broad curriculum that emphasizes both core subjects and creative arts.
School Environment: Lambrook is known for its 52 acres of grounds, offering Louis the chance to participate in “Forest School,” farming, and various sports.
Sibling Connection: Attending the same school as George and Charlotte has provided Louis with a stable and supportive environment, away from the constant glare of the media.
Future Plans: While Prince George is set to move to senior school at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year, Louis is expected to remain at Lambrook for several more years.
The choice of Lambrook reflects the Waleses’ desire for their children to have a balanced upbringing. Kensington Palace has often noted that Louis is particularly fond of the outdoors, often being seen helping in the school’s vegetable patches or participating in cricket and football matches.
Place in the Line of Succession
Prince Louis holds a unique place in British history due to the Perth Agreement of 2011, which introduced absolute primogeniture for those born after October 28, 2011.
As the fourth in line to the throne, Louis follows his father, Prince William, and his older siblings, George and Charlotte. Crucially, he is the first British prince to be ranked behind an elder sister in the line of succession, as Princess Charlotte’s place was not bypassed by his birth. This modern shift ensures that Louis’ role, while significant, carries less immediate pressure than that of his brother, the future King. In 2026, as King Charles III continues his reign, Louis’ role remains that of a “working royal in training,” primarily appearing at major ceremonial and family-focused events.
Public Image and “Memorable Moments”
Prince Louis has become a “fan favorite” largely due to his uninhibited and expressive behavior at major royal functions. From the Platinum Jubilee in 2022 to the Coronation in 2023, his reactions have often gone viral.
Trooping the Colour: Louis is a staple on the Buckingham Palace balcony, known for his enthusiastic waving and occasional hand-over-ears reaction to the RAF flypasts.
The 2026 Easter Service: His most recent major appearance saw him walking confidently to St George’s Chapel, coordinating in blue with his father and brother.
Charity Work: Under the guidance of his parents, Louis has begun participating in low-key charity events, such as the “Big Help Out,” where he was seen operating a mini-digger and helping with community renovations.
Despite his playful reputation, observers in 2026 have noted a maturing Prince who is increasingly comfortable with the protocols of royal life. His parents, however, remain firm that “Louis should be a child first,” often declining official patronages—such as a playful offer from the World Conker Championships—to ensure he stays “conker-trating” on his studies.
Practical Information and Planning
For those interested in following the public appearances of Prince Louis or visiting locations associated with the Wales family in 2026, here are the essential details.
Public Appearances: The best chances to see Prince Louis are during Trooping the Colour (held in June), the Easter Mattins Service at Windsor, and the Christmas Day walk at Sandringham.
Viewing Locations: For Trooping the Colour, spectators gather at The Mall or St. James’s Park. Tickets for the seated stands at Horse Guards Parade are allocated via a ballot in early spring.
Adelaide Cottage: Please note that Adelaide Cottage is a private residence within the Windsor Home Park and is not open to the public. However, Windsor Castle is open to visitors Thursday through Monday.
Tips for Visitors: If attending a royal walkabout, arrive early (at least 3-4 hours) to secure a spot at the front of the barriers. Always check the official Royal Family website for the most accurate dates.
Seasonal Events and 2026 Highlights
The year 2026 is a significant one for Prince Louis as he turns eight. Beyond his birthday on April 23, several key events are on the royal calendar.
In the summer of 2026, there is ongoing speculation regarding a potential royal tour to Australia and New Zealand. While George and Charlotte have both toured abroad as infants, Louis has yet to make an official overseas visit. Catherine, Princess of Wales, hinted in 2025 that she would love to take all three children “down under” when the timing aligns with their school holidays. If this tour proceeds in late 2026, it would mark Louis’ international debut, representing a major milestone in his royal life.
FAQs
How old is Prince Louis in 2026?
Prince Louis turned 8 years old on April 23, 2026.
What is Prince Louis’ full name?
His full name is Louis Arthur Charles, and his official title is His Royal Highness Prince Louis of Wales.
Where does Prince Louis go to school?
He attends Lambrook School in Berkshire, an independent preparatory school near the family’s home in Windsor.
What is Prince Louis’ position in the line of succession?
He is fourth in line to the British throne, behind his father (William), his brother (George), and his sister (Charlotte).
Why does Prince Louis often wear shorts?
Tradition dictates that young boys in the British Royal Family and upper class wear shorts until they are about seven or eight years old, after which they “graduate” to trousers for formal occasions.
Does Prince Louis have any royal duties?
No, at age eight, he does not have official royal duties. He only attends major family and ceremonial events with his parents.
Who are Prince Louis’ godparents?
His godparents include Nicholas van Cutsem, Guy Pelly, Harry Aubrey-Fletcher, Lady Laura Meade, Mrs. Robert Carter, and Lucy Middleton.
What are Prince Louis’ hobbies?
According to his parents, he loves gardening, playing football, cricket, and spending as much time as possible outdoors.
Will Prince Louis ever be King?
It is unlikely, as he is fourth in line. His brother, Prince George, is the direct heir after their father, Prince William.
Is Prince Louis’ behavior at events scripted?
No, his “cheeky” moments are widely considered to be the natural reactions of a young child at long, formal events, which his parents handle with a mix of discipline and humor.
Read More on Manchesterreporter