Throughout its history, the Duchy of Lancaster has exercised unique and prestigious responsibilities.

The creation of Lancashire as a County Palatine in the fourteenth century gave the Duchy additional powers within the county. This included the right to appoint sheriffs, justices of the peace and other roles appointed by the Crown in other parts of the realm. The Duchy still maintains many of these responsibilities.

This section contains an overview of historic posts and duties within the Duchy of Lancaster.