New analysis of official royal records has revealed that King Charles III was the most industrious member of the Royal Family in 2025, undertaking a staggering number of public duties while continuing his cancer care.
A Monarch's Remarkable Work Ethic
The 77-year-old sovereign carried out an impressive 532 royal engagements over the last twelve months. This figure surpasses even that of his sister, the Princess Royal, who frequently holds the title of the hardest-working royal. Princess Anne, 75, completed 478 engagements across more working days than the King.
This means that of the 2,458 official royal engagements recorded for the entire family in 2025, King Charles was personally responsible for almost a quarter, at 22 per cent. The data, which includes all engagements up to 18 December, was compiled by royal expert Patricia Treble.
Stepping Up Amid Health Challenges
The King's significant workload is made all the more notable by the fact he spent the entire year undergoing regular, weekly treatment for cancer. He reportedly increased his schedule at the start of 2025 following positive progress in his care.
Just last week, the monarch shared encouraging news that his treatment regimen would be reduced in the New Year. He credited this development to early diagnosis, successful medical care, and diligently following "doctors’ orders".
Treble commented on the findings, stating: "Considering he spent the entire year undergoing regular cancer treatment, the King set the pace when it comes to royal duty for the House of Windsor." She added, "There’s a common belief that Anne is the hardest-working royal. I beg to differ."
The Royal Family's Annual Engagement League
The analysis of the Court Circular—the official daily record of royal engagements—paints a detailed picture of the monarchy's work in 2025. Following Princess Anne in third place was the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, 61, with 313 engagements. His wife, Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, 60, came fourth with 235 duties.
Queen Camilla, 78, secured fifth place, having completed 228 engagements. The research also highlighted a significant increase in workload for the four most senior royals compared to the previous year:
- King Charles's engagements rose by 49 per cent year-on-year.
- The Prince of Wales, William, saw a 45 per cent increase.
- Queen Camilla's duties were up by 33 per cent.
Perhaps the most dramatic rise was that of the Princess of Wales, Catherine. Her official engagements skyrocketed from just 13 in 2024 to 68 in 2025, marking a colossal 423 per cent increase as she returned to a fuller public schedule.
The figures underscore the enduring commitment of the modern monarchy to public service, led by a King whose dedication has remained steadfast during a period of personal health challenges.
