How Old Was Princess Anne When She Got Married

So, you’re wondering about Princess Anne’s wedding day? Good for you—it’s a surprisingly fun rabbit hole to tumble down. We’re talking about the Princess Royal, the Queen’s only daughter, and the year was 1973. She was just 23 years old when she tied the knot with Captain Mark Phillips at Westminster Abbey.

Now, 23 might sound young by today’s standards, right? Plenty of people are still figuring out their coffee order at that age. But back then, it was actually considered a sensible, mature age for a royal bride—especially compared to her teenage ancestors!

Let’s be real: Princess Anne has always marched to the beat of her own drum. She was the first royal to compete in the Olympics (equestrian, naturally), and she famously told a kidnapper, “Not bloody likely.” So, of course, she didn’t rush into marriage at 18 like some fairy-tale princess.

Why 23 was the Sweet Spot

Here’s the thing: by 23, Anne had already traveled the world, completed her education, and established a career in eventing. She wasn’t waiting for a prince to save her—she was busy being a badass. Getting married at 23 meant she had the confidence to say “I do” on her own terms.

Think about it: would you rather marry at 23 with a clear sense of self, or at 30 while still figuring out your life? (Answer: neither is wrong, but Anne’s story shows that timing is personal.) She didn’t follow a script; she followed her gut.

Princess Anne: Fast Facts For Every Royal Watcher

The Real Fun Fact

Here’s where it gets lighthearted: Anne and Mark’s wedding was a massive television event—over 500 million people watched worldwide. And what did she wear? A simple high-necked gown with a Tudor-style cap, because Anne hates fuss. She literally said, “I’m not a dress-up doll.” Love that energy.

Also, did you know she rode her own horse to the wedding reception? Okay, that’s a myth—but she did arrive in a carriage, and she spent the reception chatting with grooms and stable hands. She’s always been delightfully down-to-earth.

Princess Anne Married Mark Phillips 47 Years Ago, 44% OFF

What This Means for Your Life

So, why does Princess Anne’s marriage age matter to you? Because it’s a gentle reminder that the “right” age for anything is the age that feels right to you. Anne didn’t marry because society said “now”; she married because she found a person who fit her wild, independent life.

Whether you’re 23, 33, or 53, your timeline is yours. Anne proved that you can be a royal, an Olympian, a mother, and a divorcee—and still come out the other side with a wicked sense of humor. She remarried at 42, by the way, and that union is still going strong.

Meet the husband of Princess Anne | New Idea

The Uplifting Note You Came For

Next time someone asks, “Are you married yet?” or “When are you settling down?” just channel your inner Princess Anne. Smile, change the subject, and go do something that makes you feel unstoppable. Life is too short to wear a fussy dress or follow someone else’s timeline.

So, go ahead: learn a new skill, plan an adventure, or just enjoy a cup of tea without worrying about the clock. If a royal can say “not bloody likely” to a kidnapper, you can say “not right now” to pressure. And if you’re curious about more royal history—like how old other princesses were when they married—well, that’s your next delightful rabbit hole. Happy exploring!