12 Rules of Royalty That Make No Sense

Here's a collection of bizarre and outdated royal rules that reveal how monarchy blends ancient traditions with modern life in ways that often defy common sense.

Alyana Aguja
October 29, 2025
4 min read

12 Rules of Royalty That Make No Sense — Annie Spratt from Unsplash

Royal families have long followed traditions that range from amusing to downright puzzling. From banning Monopoly and shellfish to requiring heirs to fly separately, these rules highlight the tension between ancient customs and present-day reality. While many seem unnecessary, they continue to shape how royalty is perceived and preserved in the modern world.

1. 1. Royals Cannot Play Monopoly

In 2008, Prince Andrew admitted that the Queen banned Monopoly in the royal household because it caused too much family fighting. The royal family reportedly took the game so seriously that arguments would break out over property deals. It seems strange that the world’s most famous aristocrats are forbidden from a simple board game.

2. 2. The Queen Owned All Unmarked Swans

In Britain, all unmarked mute swans on open waters belonged to the Crown. This tradition dates back to the 12th century, when swans were considered a delicacy for royal feasts. Even today, swan-upping ceremonies take place on the Thames to count and mark the birds.

3. 3. Royals Must Always Pack Mourning Clothes

When traveling abroad, royals are required to carry a black outfit in case a close relative dies. This rule came after Queen Elizabeth II was caught without appropriate mourning clothes when her father, King George VI, died in 1952. The tradition has remained ever since, ensuring that no royal is photographed inappropriately dressed during a tragedy.

4. 4. The Queen Could Not Be Touched

For centuries, it was considered inappropriate for commoners or foreign leaders to touch the monarch without consent. This rule became international news when Michelle Obama put her arm around Queen Elizabeth II in 2009. The Queen did not seem offended, but protocol experts were horrified.

5. 5. Heirs Cannot Travel Together

Royal heirs are discouraged from flying on the same plane to prevent losing multiple successors in one accident. Prince William broke this tradition when he flew with Prince George as a baby, though he needed the Queen’s permission. While sensible in theory, it highlights how monarchy still mixes ancient fears with modern air travel.

6. 6. Royals Cannot Sign Autographs

Members of the British royal family are not allowed to sign autographs due to fears of forgery. Instead, they can only write official signatures in guest books or formal documents. Fans asking for signatures often leave disappointed, as the rule has rarely been relaxed.

7. 7. The Queen Needed Permission to Marry

Until recently, royals had to seek the monarch’s permission before marrying. The Royal Marriages Act of 1772 required descendants of George II to get the sovereign’s approval, no matter how far removed they were from the throne. It was only in 2013 that this rule was modified to apply to just the first six in line.

8. 8. Royals Could Not Eat Shellfish

Traditionally, the royal family avoided shellfish because of the risk of food poisoning. This was less about personal taste and more about ensuring the monarch’s safety during state events. Though some royals, like Prince Charles, have bent the rule, it is still considered a matter of etiquette.

9. 9. Royals Must Walk Behind the Monarch

Protocol dictates that no one can walk ahead of the reigning monarch. This rule has been observed at public appearances, where family members carefully adjust their pace behind the Queen. Even when she slowed down, others had to politely trail her.

10. 10. Royals Could Not Run for Office

Members of the royal family are barred from political office. They cannot publicly endorse candidates, give political speeches, or serve in Parliament. This rule exists to preserve the monarchy’s neutrality, even though it silences royals who may have strong opinions.

11. 11. Royals Cannot Be Arrested

The reigning monarch is legally immune from arrest and prosecution in the UK. This principle, known as sovereign immunity, stems from the idea that the Crown is above the law. While other royals do not enjoy the same level of protection, the notion still raises eyebrows in modern times.

12. 12. Royals Could Not Speak Without Permission in Parliament

Traditionally, the monarch may only enter Parliament during the State Opening ceremony and cannot speak in the House of Commons. This comes from centuries-old rules limiting royal interference in politics. Even today, the Queen or King may only deliver a speech written entirely by the government.