The Duchy of Lancaster is an ancient institution dating back over seven centuries.

Originating in a grant of land made in 1265 to a Plantagenet prince, the Lancaster inheritance was raised to the status of a Duchy in 1351. The Duchy merged with the crown in 1399 when Henry Bolingbroke, Duke of Lancaster, became King.

The Duchy of Lancaster has shared in the eventful history of the monarch and nation ever since. Dynastic struggles, wars, revolution and reform have played a part in its development.

The legacy of the past remains enormous today. It is visible in the estates themselves, in the historic buildings under Duchy protection, and in the ancient traditions and duties which the Duchy upholds.

Choose a section to read about the evolution, archives and built heritage of the Duchy of Lancaster.