Public support for the British monarchy has declined to its lowest level in over three decades, according to a recent Ipsos poll conducted in March 2026. The survey reveals that just 55 percent of respondents now favour maintaining the monarchy, marking an 11 percentage point drop over the past three years and the lowest level recorded since Ipsos began tracking public opinion on the Royal family 33 years ago.

The decline in support has been particularly pronounced among younger age groups. Only 33 percent of those aged 18 to 34 expressed support for the monarchy, a significant decrease from 74 percent in 2013. Among people aged 35 to 54, just over half support the institution, while 74 percent of those over 55 remain in favour.

Six in ten respondents still believe the monarchy has an important role in Britain's future, although 30 percent disagree, and 27 percent said they would prefer a republic. Despite this, King Charles III and Prince William, the Prince of Wales, maintain strong personal approval ratings—60 percent of those surveyed felt the King is doing a good job, while 71 percent expressed confidence in Prince William.

The polling took place shortly after the arrest of Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office, amid ongoing fallout from previous controversies involving the Duke of York. The Ipsos survey notes a methodological change since June 2025, switching from a quota telephone survey to an online random probability panel, advising caution when comparing data with earlier polls.

Historically, royal support peaked around the 2012 Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II and the London Olympics, reaching 80 percent approval. It then declined gradually to around 60 percent in the year prior to the Queen’s death in 2022. Support briefly increased following her passing but has since resumed its downward trend.

Gideon Skinner, senior director of UK Political Research at Ipsos, emphasised the importance of addressing the shift in younger public opinion. He acknowledged the personal popularity of King Charles and Prince William, describing their approval ratings as surpassing those of many politicians, but stressed the need to engage younger generations if the monarchy is to remain relevant.

Additional polling from YouGov earlier in 2026 indicated the Prince and Princess of Wales are among the most positively viewed members of the Royal family, with approval ratings between 74 and 77 percent. The Princess Royal also received broad public support, with a 70 percent positive rating.

Prince William has recently shown efforts to connect with local communities, including support for a campaign to save the Somerset Arms pub in Semington, Wiltshire. He described British pubs as a “lifeline” and made a private £1,000 donation to the cause.

These developments come amid ongoing questions about the future role and public perception of the monarchy in Britain, highlighting a generational divide and shifting attitudes in a rapidly changing social landscape.