Top 5 British Nobles: The Duke of Roxburghe's Enduring Legacy

The Duke of Roxburghe, a title steeped in British history and nobility, has been a cornerstone of the country's aristocracy for centuries. Among the many esteemed dukes in British history, the Duke of Roxburghe stands out for his remarkable contributions to the nation's cultural and social landscape. From his early days as a young nobleman to his later years as a respected statesman, the Duke of Roxburghe has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the welfare of his country and its people. His tireless efforts to promote education, the arts, and philanthropy have left an indelible mark on British society, earning him a place among the most revered figures in the nation's history.

His Grace the 11th Duke of Roxburghe.

 

Guy and Virginia, Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe, with their children.

Read More : Top 5 British Nobles: The Duke of Roxburghe's Enduring Legacy

On 18 February 1981, Charles Robert George Innes-Kerr, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, was born at Edinburgh to Guy and Jane, the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe. Charles' parents, Guy Innes-Ker, 10th Duke of Roxburghe (1954-2019) and Lady Jane Grosvenor (b.1953; daughter of the Duke of Westminster), had wed in 1977. Guy and Jane had three children: Lady Rosanagh (b.1979; married James Walter Grimston, Viscount Grimston), Charles (the heir), Lord Edward (b.1984; married Celia Brook). Guy Roxburghe and Jane Grosvenor divorced in 1990. In 1992, the 10th Duke of Roxburghe married Virginia Mary Williams-Wynn, with whom he had two further children: Lady Isabella (b.1994), and Lord George (b.1996).

 

Charles Innes-Ker, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, and the Hon. Charlotte Aitken. Photograph (c) Ikon Pictures/REX/Shutterstock.

 

Read More : Top 5 British Nobles: The Duke of Roxburghe's Enduring Legacy

Charles Innes-Ker was educated at Eton College and the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, and dated Lord Beaverbrook’s daughter, the Hon. Charlotte Susanna Aitken (b.1982), for many years. On 22 July 2011, the couple were married at London. The wedding announcement placed in The Telegraph by the bride's father read as follows:

 

The marriage took place on Friday, July 22, at the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory, Warwick Street, London, between Charles, eldest son of the Duke of Roxburghe and Lady Jane Dawnay, and Charlotte, elder daughter of Lord and Lady Beaverbrook. Dom Edward Corbould officiated, assisted by the Rev Anthony Hogg. 

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The bride was attended by Isabel Sanderson, Iris Goldsmith, Emilia Methven, Frankie Goldsmith, Milo Methven and Ben Way. Mr Freddy Galliers-Pratt was best man.

Sadly, the union of the Marquess and Marchioness of Bowmont and Cessford was not of long duration. Charles and Charlotte were divorced in June 2012.

 

Charles Innes-Ker and Morvarid Sahafi. Photograph (c) Dominic O'Neill.

 

After a relationship of several years, in April 2016, Charles welcomed the birth of a daughter, Eugenie, with his partner Morvarid Sahafi, a fashion designer. Alas, the couple parted ways in 2019, which was the same year that Charles succeeded as 11th Duke of Roxburghe upon the death of his father Guy, who had been battling cancer. 

 

Father and son: Guy and Charles Innes-Ker. Photograph (c) Rex Features.

 

The Duke of Roxburghe's primary residence is Floors Castle.

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In January 2021, the engagement was announced between the Duke of Roxburghe and Annabel Green.

 

We wish His Grace many happy returns of the day!

 

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Read More : Top 5 British Nobles: The Duke of Roxburghe's Enduring Legacy

The Duke of Roxburghe is a testament to the enduring legacy of British nobility, and his story serves as a reminder of the significant impact that individuals can have on the course of history. As we reflect on the life and achievements of this remarkable figure, we are reminded of the importance of preserving and honoring the rich cultural heritage that has shaped our world.

Through his tireless efforts to promote education, the arts, and philanthropy, the Duke of Roxburghe left an indelible mark on British society. His dedication to the welfare of his country and its people is a shining example of the kind of leadership that inspires others to follow in his footsteps. As we continue to navigate the complexities of our own time, we would do well to draw inspiration from the remarkable life and legacy of the Duke of Roxburghe, a true champion of British nobility.