Britain’s Most Eligible Bachelor: The Duke of Roxburghe Turns 40

The Duke of Roxburghe, one of Britain’s most eligible bachelors, has turned 40, marking a significant milestone in his life. Born Charles Robert George Innes-Kerr, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, he is the eldest son of the late 10th Duke of Roxburghe and Lady Jane Grosvenor. His family’s rich history and aristocratic lineage have made him a prominent figure in British society, with his marriage to the Honorable Charlotte Aitken in 2011 further solidifying his position.

As the heir to the Duke of Roxburghe title, Charles has been groomed for his future role, receiving an education at Eton College and the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. His long-term relationship with Charlotte, daughter of Lord Beaverbrook, has been a subject of interest in the media. The couple’s engagement was announced in January 2021, sparking speculation about their future plans. With his 40th birthday, Charles Innes-Ker, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, is now poised to take on a more prominent role in British aristocracy.

what are some of the most notable achievements of the Duke of Roxburghe

what are some of the most notable achievements of the Duke of Roxburghe

The Duke of Roxburghe, one of Britain’s most eligible bachelors, has turned 40, marking a significant milestone in his life. Born Charles Robert George Innes-Kerr, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, he is the eldest son of the late 10th Duke of Roxburghe and Lady Jane Grosvenor. His family’s rich history and aristocratic lineage have made him a prominent figure in British society, with his marriage to the Honorable Charlotte Aitken in 2011 further solidifying his position. As the heir to the Duke of Roxburghe title, Charles has been groomed for his future role, receiving an education at Eton College and the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. His long-term relationship with Charlotte, daughter of Lord Beaverbrook, has been a subject of interest in the media. The couple’s engagement was announced in January 2021, sparking speculation about their future plans. With his 40th birthday, Charles Innes-Ker, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, is now poised to take on a more prominent role in British aristocracy.

what were the Duke of Roxburghe’s contributions to horse racing

what were the Duke of Roxburghe's contributions to horse racing

The Duke of Roxburghe, Guy Innes-Ker, made significant contributions to horse racing, particularly through his thoroughbred stud at Floors Castle. His greatest success was breeding the first double Classic winner, Attraction, in the early 2000s. Attraction won several prestigious races, including the Newmarket 1,000 and Irish 1,000 Guineas, Coronation and Sun Chariot Stakes. The stud also produced other notable horses, such as Elarqam, Viva Pataca, Laughing, Rare Rhythm, Bonfire, and Shambolic.

what was the significance of Attraction’s wins in the 1,000 Guineas and Irish 1,000 Guineas

The significance of Attraction’s wins in the 1,000 Guineas and Irish 1,000 Guineas was that she became the first horse to win both races. This achievement marked a milestone in her racing career, showcasing her exceptional abilities and dominance in the thoroughbred racing world.
His Grace the 11th Duke of Roxburghe.

 

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

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.
 

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. 

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.

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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what are the key characteristics of the Duke of Roxburghe’s leadership style
The Duke of Roxburghe, one of Britain’s most eligible bachelors, has turned 40, marking a significant milestone in his life. Born Charles Robert George Innes-Kerr, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, he is the eldest son of the late 10th Duke of Roxburghe and Lady Jane Grosvenor. His family’s rich history and aristocratic lineage have made him a prominent figure in British society, with his marriage to the Honorable Charlotte Aitken in 2011 further solidifying his position. As the heir to the Duke of Roxburghe title, Charles has been groomed for his future role, receiving an education at Eton College and the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. His long-term relationship with Charlotte, daughter of Lord Beaverbrook, has been a subject of interest in the media. The couple’s engagement was announced in January 2021, sparking speculation about their future plans. With his 40th birthday, Charles Innes-Ker, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, is now poised to take on a more prominent role in British aristocracy.

As we conclude our exploration of the life and achievements of the Duke of Roxburghe, we are reminded of the significant contributions he has made to British society and the world of horse racing. His dedication to breeding exceptional thoroughbreds has left a lasting impact on the sport, and his philanthropic efforts have benefited numerous charitable organizations. The Duke of Roxburghe has truly been a remarkable figure in his own right, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

As we bid farewell to this fascinating article, we hope that our readers have gained a deeper appreciation for the life and accomplishments of the Duke of Roxburghe. His remarkable story serves as a testament to the enduring power of passion, dedication, and perseverance. Whether in the world of horse racing or beyond, the Duke of Roxburghe‘s influence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. We encourage our readers to continue exploring the rich history and culture of Britain, and we look forward to sharing more inspiring stories with you in the future.

what are some lesser-known facts about the Duke of Roxburghe’s family history
The Duke of Roxburghe’s family history is marked by a rich and complex heritage. Here are some lesser-known facts about the family:

  1. Early Origins: The title of Duke of Roxburghe was created in 1707, but the family’s history dates back to the 16th century. The first Earl of Roxburghe, John Ker, was granted the title in 1616 by King James VI of Scotland.
  2. Subsidiary Titles: The Duke of Roxburghe holds several subsidiary titles, including Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, Earl of Kelso, Earl of Innes, Viscount Broxmouth, Lord Roxburghe, and Lord Ker of Cessford and Cavertoun. These titles were granted at different times and reflect the family’s significant influence in Scottish history.
  3. Family Seat: The family seat is Floors Castle near Kelso, Scotland. The castle grounds contain the ruins of Roxburgh Castle, which was destroyed by the Scots in 1460.
  4. Burial Place: The traditional burial place of the Dukes of Roxburghe is the Roxburghe Memorial Cloister, a 20th-century addition to the ruins of Kelso Abbey.
  5. Clan Innes: Although the Duke of Roxburghe is the Chief of Clan Innes, he cannot be recognized as such due to the retention of the name Innes-Ker.
  6. Peerage of Scotland: The title of Duke of Roxburghe is part of the peerage of Scotland, with the exception of the Earldom of Innes, which belongs to the peerage of the United Kingdom.
  7. Line of Descent: The dukedom and its associated titles descend to heirs who shall inherit the earldom, which has a specific line of descent. The titles became dormant after the death of the 4th duke but were revived in 1812.
  8. Family Marriages: The family has been involved in several notable marriages, including the marriage of the 10th Duke of Roxburghe to Virginia Mary Williams-Wynn, with whom he had two further children.
  9. Heir Apparent: The heir apparent to the title is Charles Robert George Innes-Ker, Marquess of Bowmont and Cessford, the eldest son of the 10th Duke of Roxburghe.
  10. Historical Significance: The Duke of Roxburghe has played a significant role in Scottish history, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. The family has been involved in various military and political endeavors, contributing to the country’s development and growth.

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