Princess Eugenie Children: Key Updates On August And Ernest Brooksbank In 2026

Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, continue to balance high-profile public attention with private family life in 2026. As the young family splits their time between the United Kingdom and Portugal, royal observers are following the upbringing of their two sons, August and Ernest Brooksbank. Here is the essential guide to Princess Eugenie's children, their positions in the royal line of succession, and their modern upbringing.

Modern Upbringing: Balancing Portugal Coastlines and British Traditions

Princess Eugenie has deliberately established a grounded lifestyle for her sons, August Philip Hawke Brooksbank and Ernest George Edward Brooksbank. The family divides their calendar between the CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club in Melides, Portugal—where Jack Brooksbank works in project development—and their UK residence at Ivy Cottage on the grounds of Kensington Palace.

This international schedule allows the boys to grow up largely outside the daily glare of British media while staying deeply connected to their extended family. Key elements defining their childhood include:

• Focus on Nature: Eugenie frequently shares updates highlighting her sons' outdoor experiences, from coastal activities in Portugal to park walks in London.
• Close Cousin Connections: August and Ernest maintain frequent contact with their royal cousins, including Princess Beatrice’s daughter, Sienna Mapelli Mozzi, and Prince Harry’s children, Archie and Lilibet.
• Public Milestones: While kept out of routine working royal events, August made memorable appearances during major family milestones, including Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee pageants.

Succession Mechanics: Why Princess Eugenie's Children Lack Royal Titles

Despite being great-grandchildren of the late Queen Elizabeth II and grandchildren of Prince Andrew, neither August nor Ernest carries an official royal title such as HRH or Prince. Under Letters Patent issued by King George V in 1917, royal titles pass down through the male line only. Because Jack Brooksbank does not hold a peerage title, his sons carry the standard surname Brooksbank.

• Succession Standing: August Brooksbank holds the 12th position in the line of succession to the British throne, directly followed by Ernest at 13th position.
• Private Career Path: Without royal titles or duties, August and Ernest will have full freedom to pursue private careers without official state constraints as adults.
• Tribute Names: Both children carry historical names. August’s middle name Philip honors his late great-grandfather, Prince Philip, while Hawke reflects Jack Brooksbank's heritage. Ernest’s middle names honor King George V (whose middle name was Ernest) and his late grandfather, George Brooksbank.

What Lies Ahead for Princess Eugenie’s Family in 2026

Throughout 2026, Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank remain focused on providing early education and stability for their sons. Eugenie continues her work as a director at the Hauser & Wirth art gallery alongside her advocacy for ocean conservation, values she regularly integrates into her children's learning.

Key priorities for the family moving through 2026 include:

• Private Family Events: August and Ernest are expected to attend non-official family gatherings, including seasonal holidays at Balmoral Castle and private royal anniversaries.
• Early Education: With August reaching primary school age, the family continues to prioritize stable educational routines across their residences.
• Environmental Advocacy: Eugenie has expressed a strong desire to raise her sons with awareness around sustainability, single-use plastics, and marine protection.