Research notes · England and Britain · 1066–2026

How long did English and British monarchs reign?

Name: English and British reign lengths: dates, sources and disagreements
Creator: Ellone-Loire
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Compare the dates and lengths of 44 reigns, with sources and summaries by royal house and century. Uncertain dates are explained rather than guessed. Each row distinguishes becoming king or queen, the coronation and numbered royal years.

English and British reigns · records last checked 28 September 2026

English and British reign lengths: dates, sources and disagreements

Compare reign lengths where both dates are confirmed by the cited sources. Reigns with uncertain dates appear after the dated records and are not ranked by days.

Listed reigns: 44
Completed reigns with full dates: 35
Completed reigns with uncertain dates: 8
Still reigning when checked on 28 September 2026: 1

Lengths in days

These figures cover 35 completed reigns with full dates. Restored reigns and joint sovereigns count separately. Sources sometimes give different dates, as explained below; uncertain reigns could change the ranking.

Longest confirmed reign: Elizabeth II: 70 years 214 days (25,782 days)
Shortest confirmed reign: Edward V: 0 years 77 days (77 days)
Median: About 15.2 years (5,535 days)
Mean: About 22.8 years (8,345.20 days)
Total / count: About 799.7 years (292,082 days) / 35

We subtract the start date from the end date to count elapsed days. Years and remaining days count complete anniversaries in the start-date calendar, then the days to the end date; the total days are unchanged. Summary years are approximate, using 365.2425 days per year. Counting both the first and last dates adds one. We use the stated calendars, including the Julian-to-Gregorian change in 1752. Reigns still continuing or with uncertain dates are not ranked by days.

For an approximate length in years, we subtract the start year from the end year. This can be a year out because the months and days are not used. The 41 completed reigns ending in a later year have median 19, mean 23.15 and total 949 approximate years. Edward V and Edward VIII began and ended in the same year, so they are omitted from this summary rather than counted as zero.

Reign lengths by royal house

The tables summarize lengths in days for completed reigns with full dates. The counts also show uncertain and continuing reigns. Restored reigns count separately, even when the monarch is the same.

Completed reign lengths by royal house
Royal house	Listed / dated / uncertain / continuing	Total length	Mean length	Median length	Shortest / longest
Plantagenet	5 / 5 / 0 / 0	About 182.9 years (66,816 days)	About 36.6 years (13,363.20 days)	About 34.6 years (12,651 days)	19 years 197 days (7,137 days) / 56 years 28 days (20,482 days)
Lancaster	4 / 3 / 1 / 0	About 61.4 years (22,435 days)	About 20.5 years (7,478.33 days)	About 13.5 years (4,920 days)	9 years 163 days (3,450 days) / 38 years 185 days (14,065 days)
York	4 / 4 / 0 / 0	About 23.9 years (8,746 days)	About 6.0 years (2,186.50 days)	About 5.9 years (2,144 days)	0 years 77 days (77 days) / 11 years 363 days (4,381 days)
Tudor	5 / 5 / 0 / 0	About 117.6 years (42,935 days)	About 23.5 years (8,587 days)	About 23.7 years (8,643 days)	5 years 121 days (1,947 days) / 44 years 127 days (16,198 days)
Stuart	6 / 6 / 0 / 0	About 92.7 years (33,857 days)	About 15.4 years (5,642.83 days)	About 17.2 years (6,284 days)	3 years 321 days (1,416 days) / 24 years 253 days (9,019 days)
Orange	1 / 1 / 0 / 0	About 13.1 years (4,771 days)	About 13.1 years (4,771 days)	About 13.1 years (4,771 days)	13 years 23 days (4,771 days) / 13 years 23 days (4,771 days)
Hanover	6 / 6 / 0 / 0	About 186.4 years (68,098 days)	About 31.1 years (11,349.67 days)	About 23.1 years (8,438 days)	6 years 359 days (2,551 days) / 63 years 216 days (23,226 days)
Saxe-Coburg and Gotha	1 / 1 / 0 / 0	About 9.3 years (3,391 days)	About 9.3 years (3,391 days)	About 9.3 years (3,391 days)	9 years 104 days (3,391 days) / 9 years 104 days (3,391 days)
Windsor	5 / 4 / 0 / 1	About 112.3 years (41,033 days)	About 28.1 years (10,258.25 days)	About 20.4 years (7,462.50 days)	0 years 326 days (326 days) / 70 years 214 days (25,782 days)
Normandy	3 / 0 / 3 / 0	Not ranked by days: the full dates are not confirmed.
Blois	1 / 0 / 1 / 0	Not ranked by days: the full dates are not confirmed.
Angevin	3 / 0 / 3 / 0	Not ranked by days: the full dates are not confirmed.

Reign lengths by starting century

Each reign is grouped by the century in which it began. A reign continuing into the next century stays in its starting group and is counted once.

Completed reign lengths by starting century CE
Starting century	Listed / dated / uncertain / continuing	Total length	Mean length	Median length	Shortest / longest
13	2 / 2 / 0 / 0	About 90.7 years (33,133 days)	About 45.4 years (16,566.50 days)	About 45.4 years (16,566.50 days)	34 years 233 days (12,651 days) / 56 years 28 days (20,482 days)
14	4 / 4 / 0 / 0	About 105.7 years (38,603 days)	About 26.4 years (9,650.75 days)	About 20.9 years (7,636 days)	13 years 171 days (4,920 days) / 50 years 148 days (18,411 days)
15	8 / 7 / 1 / 0	About 95.6 years (34,904 days)	About 13.7 years (4,986.29 days)	About 9.6 years (3,500 days)	0 years 77 days (77 days) / 38 years 185 days (14,065 days)
16	4 / 4 / 0 / 0	About 93.9 years (34,292 days)	About 23.5 years (8,573 days)	About 22.1 years (8,073.50 days)	5 years 121 days (1,947 days) / 44 years 127 days (16,198 days)
17	6 / 6 / 0 / 0	About 93.4 years (34,099 days)	About 15.6 years (5,683.17 days)	About 17.5 years (6,405 days)	3 years 321 days (1,416 days) / 24 years 253 days (9,019 days)
18	4 / 4 / 0 / 0	About 117.9 years (43,049 days)	About 29.5 years (10,762.25 days)	About 23.1 years (8,438 days)	12 years 146 days (4,529 days) / 59 years 96 days (21,644 days)
19	3 / 3 / 0 / 0	About 81.0 years (29,578 days)	About 27.0 years (9,859.33 days)	About 10.4 years (3,801 days)	6 years 359 days (2,551 days) / 63 years 216 days (23,226 days)
20	5 / 5 / 0 / 0	About 121.6 years (44,424 days)	About 24.3 years (8,884.80 days)	About 15.2 years (5,535 days)	0 years 326 days (326 days) / 70 years 214 days (25,782 days)
11	3 / 0 / 3 / 0	Not ranked by days: the full dates are not confirmed.
12	4 / 0 / 4 / 0	Not ranked by days: the full dates are not confirmed.
21	1 / 0 / 0 / 1	Still reigning when checked on 28 September 2026: a completed length is not available.

Print selection: all 44 records. Findings summarize the whole dataset; CSV downloads always contain all records.

44 reigns · select Details for dates, explanations and sources
Monarch / years	Reign dates	Reign length	About these dates	Sources
Henry III 1216 to 1272 Plantagenet	19 October 1216 to 16 November 1272 (Julian)	56 years 28 days (20,482 days) 20,483 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia gives a different start date; see Details.	English Heritage: royal biographies
Details: Henry III Royal house Plantagenet Dates used here 19 October 1216 to 16 November 1272 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 56 years 28 days (20,482 days) 20,483 days counting both the first and last day. Dates given by Wikipedia 28 October 1216 to 16 November 1272 About the dates English Heritage says Henry III succeeded on 19 October 1216 and died on 16 November 1272; these are the dates used here. Wikipedia starts the reign at his first coronation on 28 October. Becoming king and being crowned were separate events. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry III Sources English Heritage: royal biographies: Gives succession on 19 October 1216 and death on 16 November 1272. Hereford Cathedral: royal history: Describes Henry III succeeding John after his death on 19 October 1216. Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives death on 16 November 1272 and coronation on 28 October 1216. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry III from 28 October 1216 to 16 November 1272.
Edward I 1272 to 1307 Plantagenet	16 November 1272 to 7 July 1307 (Julian)	34 years 233 days (12,651 days) 12,652 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia gives a different start date; see Details.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Edward I Royal house Plantagenet Dates used here 16 November 1272 to 7 July 1307 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 34 years 233 days (12,651 days) 12,652 days counting both the first and last day. Dates given by Wikipedia 20 November 1272 to 7 July 1307 About the dates History of Parliament dates his succession to 16 November 1272, when Henry III died. The Royal Family also describes this succession. Wikipedia starts the reign on 20 November, the date of formal recognition and his father’s funeral. This page uses 16 November. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward I Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 16 November 1272 to 7 July 1307. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward I from 20 November 1272 to 7 July 1307.
Edward II 1307 to 1327 Plantagenet	7 July 1307 to 20 January 1327 (Julian)	19 years 197 days (7,137 days) 7,138 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia gives a different start date; see Details.	Encyclopædia Britannica (1911): royal biography
Details: Edward II Royal house Plantagenet Dates used here 7 July 1307 to 20 January 1327 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 19 years 197 days (7,137 days) 7,138 days counting both the first and last day. Dates given by Wikipedia 8 July 1307 to 20 January 1327 About the dates Britannica’s 1911 biography describes Edward II becoming king when Edward I died on 7 July 1307. Wikipedia starts the reign on 8 July. The page uses 7 July and ends the reign at his renunciation on 20 January 1327, rather than his death in September. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward II Sources Encyclopædia Britannica (1911): royal biography: Describes succession on 7 July 1307 and renunciation on 20 January 1327. Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives his deposition as 20 January 1327. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward II from 8 July 1307 to 20 January 1327.
Edward III 1327 to 1377 Plantagenet	24 January 1327 to 21 June 1377 (Julian)	50 years 148 days (18,411 days) 18,412 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia gives a different start date; see Details.	English Heritage: royal biographies
Details: Edward III Royal house Plantagenet Dates used here 24 January 1327 to 21 June 1377 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 50 years 148 days (18,411 days) 18,412 days counting both the first and last day. Dates given by Wikipedia 25 January 1327 to 21 June 1377 About the dates English Heritage gives 24 January 1327 as his succession and declaration as ruler, and 21 June 1377 as his death; these are the dates used here. Wikipedia starts the reign on 25 January. Britannica’s 1911 account gives parliamentary recognition on 13 January. His coronation on 1 February was a separate event. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward III Sources English Heritage: royal biographies: Gives succession and declaration on 24 January 1327 and death on 21 June 1377. Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives death on 21 June 1377 and coronation on 1 February 1327. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward III from 25 January 1327 to 21 June 1377.
Richard II 1377 to 1399 Plantagenet	22 June 1377 to 30 September 1399 (Julian)	22 years 100 days (8,135 days) 8,136 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia gives a different end date; see Details.	Encyclopædia Britannica (1911): royal biography
Details: Richard II Royal house Plantagenet Dates used here 22 June 1377 to 30 September 1399 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 22 years 100 days (8,135 days) 8,136 days counting both the first and last day. Dates given by Wikipedia 22 June 1377 to 29 September 1399 About the dates The Law Foundation’s reign table starts his reign on 22 June 1377. This page ends it at his deposition on 30 September 1399, following Britannica’s 1911 account. Wikipedia instead ends it at his abdication on 29 September. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Richard II Sources Encyclopædia Britannica (1911): royal biography: Describes the end of his rule on 30 September 1399. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Richard II from 22 June 1377 to 29 September 1399. New Zealand Law Foundation: reign-date table: Appendix 5 gives 22 June 1377 as the start of Richard II’s reign.
Henry IV 1399 to 1413 Lancaster	30 September 1399 to 20 March 1413 (Julian)	13 years 171 days (4,920 days) 4,921 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	Westminster Abbey: royal records
Details: Henry IV Royal house Lancaster Dates used here 30 September 1399 to 20 March 1413 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 13 years 171 days (4,920 days) 4,921 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates The Law Foundation starts his reign on 30 September 1399; Westminster Abbey gives his death as 20 March 1413. Wikipedia gives the same dates. His coronation on 13 October 1399 was a separate event. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry IV Sources Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives death on 20 March 1413 and coronation on 13 October 1399. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry IV from 30 September 1399 to 20 March 1413. New Zealand Law Foundation: reign-date table: Appendix 5 gives 30 September 1399 as the start of Henry IV’s reign.
Henry V 1413 to 1422 Lancaster	21 March 1413 to 31 August 1422 (Julian)	9 years 163 days (3,450 days) 3,451 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	Inquisitions Post Mortem Project: medieval court records
Details: Henry V Royal house Lancaster Dates used here 21 March 1413 to 31 August 1422 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 9 years 163 days (3,450 days) 3,451 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates Fine Roll 1 Henry V dates new writs to 21 March 1413, the opening day of his reign. The Law Foundation and Wikipedia give the same start date. Westminster Abbey and Wikipedia give his death as 31 August 1422. The Royal Family’s list confirms the years, rather than both full dates. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry V Sources Royal Family: sovereign biographies: Confirms the reign years for Henry V, without confirming both full dates. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry V from 21 March 1413 to 31 August 1422. New Zealand Law Foundation: reign-date table: Appendix 5 gives 21 March 1413 as the start of Henry V’s reign. Inquisitions Post Mortem Project: medieval court records: Fine Roll 1 Henry V records new writs on 21 March 1413, the opening day of his reign. Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives death on 31 August 1422.
Henry VI 1422 to 1461 Lancaster	31 August 1422 to 4 March 1461 (Julian)	38 years 185 days (14,065 days) 14,066 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia gives a different start date; see Details.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Henry VI Royal house Lancaster Dates used here 31 August 1422 to 4 March 1461 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 38 years 185 days (14,065 days) 14,066 days counting both the first and last day. Dates given by Wikipedia 1 September 1422 to 4 March 1461 About the dates History of Parliament starts his first reign on 31 August 1422. Wikipedia and Westminster Abbey describe his kingship beginning on 1 September. The page uses 31 August and ends this first reign on 4 March 1461; his later restored reign is listed separately. Historical context Henry VI’s first and restored reigns are listed separately. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry VI Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 31 August 1422 to 4 March 1461. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry VI from 1 September 1422 to 4 March 1461. Westminster Abbey: royal records: Describes his kingship beginning on 1 September 1422; History of Parliament starts the reign on 31 August.
Edward IV 1461 to 1470 York	4 March 1461 to 3 October 1470 (Julian)	9 years 213 days (3,500 days) 3,501 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Edward IV Royal house York Dates used here 4 March 1461 to 3 October 1470 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 9 years 213 days (3,500 days) 3,501 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 4 March 1461 to 3 October 1470. These dates describe Edward IV’s first reign; his restored reign is listed separately. Historical context Edward IV’s first and restored reigns are listed separately. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward IV Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: History of Parliament files these dates under its page for Edward IV’s rule in Ireland: 4 March 1461 to 3 October 1470. Wikipedia gives the same dates for his English reign. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward IV from 4 March 1461 to 3 October 1470.
Edward IV (restored reign) 1471 to 1483 York	11 April 1471 to 9 April 1483 (Julian)	11 years 363 days (4,381 days) 4,382 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Edward IV (restored reign) Royal house York Dates used here 11 April 1471 to 9 April 1483 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 11 years 363 days (4,381 days) 4,382 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 11 April 1471 to 9 April 1483 for his restored reign. The page keeps this separate from his first reign. Historical context Edward IV returned after Henry VI’s restored reign. His numbered years did not restart. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward IV (restored reign) Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: History of Parliament files these dates under its page for Edward IV’s rule in Ireland: 11 April 1471 to 9 April 1483. Wikipedia gives the same dates for his English reign. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward IV (restored reign) from 11 April 1471 to 9 April 1483.
Edward V 1483 to 1483 York	9 April 1483 to 25 June 1483 (Julian)	0 years 77 days (77 days) 78 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	Westminster Abbey: royal records
Details: Edward V Royal house York Dates used here 9 April 1483 to 25 June 1483 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 0 years 77 days (77 days) 78 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates Westminster Abbey and Wikipedia give 9 April to 25 June 1483. This reign is ranked by days. It is omitted only from the approximate-years summary because it began and ended in the same calendar year. Historical context The day-length ranking includes this reign. The approximate-years summary omits it because both dates fall in 1483. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward V Sources Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives Edward IV’s death on 9 April and Edward V’s deposition on 25 June 1483. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward V from 9 April 1483 to 25 June 1483.
Richard III 1483 to 1485 York	26 June 1483 to 22 August 1485 (Julian)	2 years 57 days (788 days) 789 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Richard III Royal house York Dates used here 26 June 1483 to 22 August 1485 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 2 years 57 days (788 days) 789 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament starts his reign on 26 June 1483 and ends it on 22 August 1485; these are the dates used here. Westminster Abbey describes his proclamation on 25 June. His coronation on 6 July was a separate event. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Richard III Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 26 June 1483 to 22 August 1485. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Richard III from 26 June 1483 to 22 August 1485. Westminster Abbey: royal records: Describes his proclamation on 25 June 1483; History of Parliament starts the reign on 26 June.
Henry VII 1485 to 1509 Tudor	22 August 1485 to 21 April 1509 (Julian)	23 years 242 days (8,643 days) 8,644 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Henry VII Royal house Tudor Dates used here 22 August 1485 to 21 April 1509 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 23 years 242 days (8,643 days) 8,644 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 22 August 1485 to 21 April 1509 for Henry VII. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry VII Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 22 August 1485 to 21 April 1509. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry VII from 22 August 1485 to 21 April 1509.
Henry VIII 1509 to 1547 Tudor	21 April 1509 to 28 January 1547 (Julian)	37 years 282 days (13,796 days) 13,797 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia gives a different start date; see Details.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Henry VIII Royal house Tudor Dates used here 21 April 1509 to 28 January 1547 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 37 years 282 days (13,796 days) 13,797 days counting both the first and last day. Dates given by Wikipedia 22 April 1509 to 28 January 1547 About the dates History of Parliament starts his reign on 21 April 1509, when he became king. Wikipedia and the University of Victoria regnal-year table use 22 April. The page uses 21 April for reign length and 22 April for numbered years. His coronation on 24 June was a separate event. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry VIII Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 21 April 1509 to 28 January 1547. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry VIII from 22 April 1509 to 28 January 1547.
Edward VI 1547 to 1553 Tudor	28 January 1547 to 6 July 1553 (Julian)	6 years 159 days (2,351 days) 2,352 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Edward VI Royal house Tudor Dates used here 28 January 1547 to 6 July 1553 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 6 years 159 days (2,351 days) 2,352 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 28 January 1547 to 6 July 1553 for Edward VI. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward VI Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 28 January 1547 to 6 July 1553. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward VI from 28 January 1547 to 6 July 1553.
Mary I 1553 to 1558 Tudor	19 July 1553 to 17 November 1558 (Julian)	5 years 121 days (1,947 days) 1,948 days counting both the first and last day	The dates used here are confirmed. History of Parliament starts the reign on 6 July instead of 19 July; see Details.	University of Victoria: regnal-year table
Details: Mary I Royal house Tudor Dates used here 19 July 1553 to 17 November 1558 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 5 years 121 days (1,947 days) 1,948 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates This page starts Mary’s reign at her proclamation on 19 July 1553, the date used by Wikipedia’s reign list and her first numbered year in the University of Victoria table. History of Parliament starts it on 6 July, when she inherited the right to the throne. Both end it on 17 November 1558. Later numbered years begin on 6 July. Philip’s numbered years begin on 25 July. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Mary I Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Starts the reign on 6 July 1553, when Mary inherited the right to the throne. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Mary I from 19 July 1553 to 17 November 1558. University of Victoria: regnal-year table: Lists the dates of numbered royal years; these can differ from accession dates.
Elizabeth I 1558 to 1603 Tudor	17 November 1558 to 24 March 1603 (Julian)	44 years 127 days (16,198 days) 16,199 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Elizabeth I Royal house Tudor Dates used here 17 November 1558 to 24 March 1603 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 44 years 127 days (16,198 days) 16,199 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 17 November 1558 to 24 March 1603 for Elizabeth I. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Elizabeth I Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 17 November 1558 to 24 March 1603. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Elizabeth I from 17 November 1558 to 24 March 1603.
James I 1603 to 1625 Stuart	24 March 1603 to 27 March 1625 (Julian)	22 years 3 days (8,039 days) 8,040 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: James I Royal house Stuart Dates used here 24 March 1603 to 27 March 1625 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 22 years 3 days (8,039 days) 8,040 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 24 March 1603 to 27 March 1625 for James I. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for James I Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 24 March 1603 to 27 March 1625. Royal Family: sovereign biographies: Gives inheritance of the English throne on 24 March 1603. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists James I from 24 March 1603 to 27 March 1625.
Charles I 1625 to 1649 Stuart	27 March 1625 to 30 January 1649 (Julian)	23 years 309 days (8,710 days) 8,711 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Charles I Royal house Stuart Dates used here 27 March 1625 to 30 January 1649 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 23 years 309 days (8,710 days) 8,711 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 27 March 1625 to 30 January 1649 for Charles I. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Charles I Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 27 March 1625 to 30 January 1649. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Charles I from 27 March 1625 to 30 January 1649.
Charles II 1660 to 1685 Stuart	29 May 1660 to 6 February 1685 (Julian)	24 years 253 days (9,019 days) 9,020 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: the Restoration
Details: Charles II Royal house Stuart Dates used here 29 May 1660 to 6 February 1685 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 24 years 253 days (9,019 days) 9,020 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates This page starts Charles II’s restored reign at his arrival in London on 29 May 1660, following History of Parliament and Wikipedia, and ends it at his death on 6 February 1685. History of Parliament says the Convention Parliament proclaimed him king on 8 May; Parliament’s overview dates formal restoration and proclamation to 14 May. These accounts describe different events. His numbered years run from 30 January 1649, so the restored reign begins partway through year 12. His coronation on 23 April 1661 was separate. Historical context Only Charles II’s restored reign is included in this table. The republican period of 1649–1660 is shown as a gap in the lookup. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Charles II Sources UK Parliament: royal and constitutional history: Dates formal restoration and proclamation to 14 May 1660. Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives his arrival on 29 May 1660 and death on 6 February 1685. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Charles II from 29 May 1660 to 6 February 1685. History of Parliament: the Restoration: Describes the Convention Parliament’s proclamation on 8 May and his arrival in London on 29 May 1660.
James II 1685 to 1688 Stuart	6 February 1685 to 23 December 1688 (Julian)	3 years 321 days (1,416 days) 1,417 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: James II Royal house Stuart Dates used here 6 February 1685 to 23 December 1688 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 3 years 321 days (1,416 days) 1,417 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia end the reign at James II’s final departure on 23 December 1688. The regnal-year table instead ends his numbered years on 11 December, the date used for his abdication. This page uses 23 December for reign length and 11 December for document dating. Numbered years Read the numbered years for James II Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 6 February 1685 to 23 December 1688. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists James II from 6 February 1685 to 23 December 1688.
William III 1689 to 1702 Orange	13 February 1689 to 8 March 1702 (Julian)	13 years 23 days (4,771 days) 4,772 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: William III Royal house Orange Dates used here 13 February 1689 to 8 March 1702 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 13 years 23 days (4,771 days) 4,772 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates William III and Mary II began their joint English reign on 13 February 1689. William continued alone after Mary died on 28 December 1694, until his death on 8 March 1702. History of Parliament records the joint and sole periods separately; this page combines them as one William III reign and lists Mary separately. Cheney’s table at the Folger Shakespeare Library changes William’s numbered-year anniversary from 13 February to 28 December; the Colonial Society table keeps 13 February. Historical context William’s reign includes his joint rule with Mary II and his later sole rule. Mary’s reign is listed separately. Numbered years Read the numbered years for William III Sources History of Parliament: joint reign of William and Mary: Records the joint English reign, beginning 13 February 1689. History of Parliament: William’s sole reign: Records William’s sole English reign after Mary’s death on 28 December 1694. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists William III from 13 February 1689 to 8 March 1702.
Mary II 1689 to 1694 Stuart	13 February 1689 to 28 December 1694 (Julian)	5 years 318 days (2,144 days) 2,145 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Mary II Royal house Stuart Dates used here 13 February 1689 to 28 December 1694 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 5 years 318 days (2,144 days) 2,145 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 13 February 1689 to 28 December 1694. Mary ruled jointly with William III until her death; William’s reign continued to 1702. Cheney’s table at the Folger Shakespeare Library ends their joint numbering on 27 December, one day before her death. Historical context Mary II’s reign is the joint period with William III; his reign continued after her death. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Mary II Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 13 February 1689 to 28 December 1694. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Mary II from 13 February 1689 to 28 December 1694.
Anne 1702 to 1714 Stuart	8 March 1702 to 1 August 1714 (Julian)	12 years 146 days (4,529 days) 4,530 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Anne Royal house Stuart Dates used here 8 March 1702 to 1 August 1714 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 12 years 146 days (4,529 days) 4,530 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates Anne’s reign continued from 8 March 1702 to 1 August 1714. History of Parliament and Wikipedia describe the English period before the union of 1 May 1707 and the British period after it. The page combines those periods into one reign; the union did not restart her numbered years. Historical context The English and British periods are combined as one continuous reign. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Anne Sources History of Parliament: Anne’s British reign: Records her British reign after the union of 1707. History of Parliament: Anne’s English reign: Records her English reign before the union of 1707. Wikipedia: Anne’s English reign: Gives 8 March 1702 to 1 May 1707, before the union. Wikipedia: Anne’s British reign: Gives 1 May 1707 to 1 August 1714, after the union.
George I 1714 to 1727 Hanover	1 August 1714 to 11 June 1727 (Julian)	12 years 314 days (4,697 days) 4,698 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: George I Royal house Hanover Dates used here 1 August 1714 to 11 June 1727 (Julian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 12 years 314 days (4,697 days) 4,698 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament gives 1 August 1714 to 11 June 1727 in the Julian calendar. Westminster Abbey gives his death in Germany as 22 June 1727 in the Gregorian calendar. Those two death dates describe the same day. Numbered years Read the numbered years for George I Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 1 August 1714 to 11 June 1727. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists George I from 1 August 1714 to 11 June 1727. Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives his death as 22 June 1727 Gregorian, the same day as 11 June Julian.
George II 1727 to 1760 Hanover	11 June 1727 to 25 October 1760 (Julian to Gregorian)	33 years 125 days (12,179 days) 12,180 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: George II Royal house Hanover Dates used here 11 June 1727 to 25 October 1760 (Julian to Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 33 years 125 days (12,179 days) 12,180 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 11 June 1727 to 25 October 1760. The start is Julian and the end Gregorian, because England changed calendars in 1752. His numbered years across that change are explained in the converter rules. Numbered years Read the numbered years for George II Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 11 June 1727 to 25 October 1760. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists George II from 11 June 1727 to 25 October 1760.
George III 1760 to 1820 Hanover	25 October 1760 to 29 January 1820 (Gregorian)	59 years 96 days (21,644 days) 21,645 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: George III Royal house Hanover Dates used here 25 October 1760 to 29 January 1820 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 59 years 96 days (21,644 days) 21,645 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament records George III’s British reign before the union of 1801 and his United Kingdom reign after it. Together with Wikipedia, these give 25 October 1760 to 29 January 1820. The page combines the periods as one continuous reign. Historical context The British and United Kingdom periods are combined as one continuous reign. Numbered years Read the numbered years for George III Sources History of Parliament: George III’s United Kingdom reign: Records his United Kingdom reign after the union of 1801. History of Parliament: George III’s British reign: Records his British reign before the union of 1801. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists George III from 25 October 1760 to 29 January 1820.
George IV 1820 to 1830 Hanover	29 January 1820 to 26 June 1830 (Gregorian)	10 years 148 days (3,801 days) 3,802 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: George IV Royal house Hanover Dates used here 29 January 1820 to 26 June 1830 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 10 years 148 days (3,801 days) 3,802 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 29 January 1820 to 26 June 1830 for George IV. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for George IV Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 29 January 1820 to 26 June 1830. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists George IV from 29 January 1820 to 26 June 1830.
William IV 1830 to 1837 Hanover	26 June 1830 to 20 June 1837 (Gregorian)	6 years 359 days (2,551 days) 2,552 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: William IV Royal house Hanover Dates used here 26 June 1830 to 20 June 1837 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 6 years 359 days (2,551 days) 2,552 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 26 June 1830 to 20 June 1837 for William IV. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for William IV Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 26 June 1830 to 20 June 1837. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists William IV from 26 June 1830 to 20 June 1837.
Victoria 1837 to 1901 Hanover	20 June 1837 to 22 January 1901 (Gregorian)	63 years 216 days (23,226 days) 23,227 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Victoria Royal house Hanover Dates used here 20 June 1837 to 22 January 1901 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 63 years 216 days (23,226 days) 23,227 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 20 June 1837 to 22 January 1901 for Victoria. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Victoria Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 20 June 1837 to 22 January 1901. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Victoria from 20 June 1837 to 22 January 1901.
Edward VII 1901 to 1910 Saxe-Coburg and Gotha	22 January 1901 to 6 May 1910 (Gregorian)	9 years 104 days (3,391 days) 3,392 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Edward VII Royal house Saxe-Coburg and Gotha Dates used here 22 January 1901 to 6 May 1910 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 9 years 104 days (3,391 days) 3,392 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 22 January 1901 to 6 May 1910 for Edward VII. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward VII Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 22 January 1901 to 6 May 1910. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward VII from 22 January 1901 to 6 May 1910.
George V 1910 to 1936 Windsor	6 May 1910 to 20 January 1936 (Gregorian)	25 years 259 days (9,390 days) 9,391 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: George V Royal house Windsor Dates used here 6 May 1910 to 20 January 1936 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 25 years 259 days (9,390 days) 9,391 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 6 May 1910 to 20 January 1936 for George V. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for George V Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 6 May 1910 to 20 January 1936. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists George V from 6 May 1910 to 20 January 1936.
Edward VIII 1936 to 1936 Windsor	20 January 1936 to 11 December 1936 (Gregorian)	0 years 326 days (326 days) 327 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Edward VIII Royal house Windsor Dates used here 20 January 1936 to 11 December 1936 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 0 years 326 days (326 days) 327 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 20 January to 11 December 1936. Subtracting those dates gives 326 days; counting both dates gives 327. The Royal Family biography reports 325 days. Edward signed his abdication on 10 December, but it took legal effect on 11 December. This reign is ranked by days and omitted only from the approximate-years summary. Historical context The day-length ranking includes this reign. The approximate-years summary omits it because both dates fall in 1936. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Edward VIII Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 20 January 1936 to 11 December 1936. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Edward VIII from 20 January 1936 to 11 December 1936. Royal Family: sovereign biographies: Reports a reign of 325 days; the dates used here give 326 elapsed days.
George VI 1936 to 1952 Windsor	11 December 1936 to 6 February 1952 (Gregorian)	15 years 57 days (5,535 days) 5,536 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: George VI Royal house Windsor Dates used here 11 December 1936 to 6 February 1952 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 15 years 57 days (5,535 days) 5,536 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 11 December 1936 to 6 February 1952 for George VI. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for George VI Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 11 December 1936 to 6 February 1952. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists George VI from 11 December 1936 to 6 February 1952.
Elizabeth II 1952 to 2022 Windsor	6 February 1952 to 8 September 2022 (Gregorian)	70 years 214 days (25,782 days) 25,783 days counting both the first and last day	Both dates are confirmed. Wikipedia’s reign list gives the same dates.	History of Parliament: reign dates
Details: Elizabeth II Royal house Windsor Dates used here 6 February 1952 to 8 September 2022 (Gregorian) How certain are the dates? Both dates are confirmed Length 70 years 214 days (25,782 days) 25,783 days counting both the first and last day. About the dates History of Parliament and Wikipedia give 6 February 1952 to 8 September 2022 for Elizabeth II. The page uses these dates to calculate elapsed days. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Elizabeth II Sources History of Parliament: reign dates: Gives 6 February 1952 to 8 September 2022. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Elizabeth II from 6 February 1952 to 8 September 2022.
William I 1066 to 1087 Normandy	1066 to 9 September 1087; the start date is not confirmed	About 21 years (exact days not confirmed)	Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed.	Royal Family: sovereign biographies
Details: William I Royal house Normandy Dates used here 1066 to 9 September 1087; the start date is not confirmed How certain are the dates? The full start date is not confirmed Length About 21 years (exact days not confirmed) Why it is not ranked Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed Dates given by Wikipedia 25 December 1066 to 9 September 1087 About the dates The Royal Family gives his death as 9 September 1087. Wikipedia starts the reign at his coronation on 25 December 1066. The accession date is not confirmed here, so this reign is not ranked by days. Westminster Abbey also mentions 8 or 9 September for his death. Numbered years Read the numbered years for William I Sources Royal Family: sovereign biographies: Gives his death as 9 September 1087. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists William I from 25 December 1066 to 9 September 1087.
William II 1087 to 1100 Normandy	1087 to 2 August 1100; the start date is not confirmed	About 13 years (exact days not confirmed)	Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed.	Westminster Abbey: royal records
Details: William II Royal house Normandy Dates used here 1087 to 2 August 1100; the start date is not confirmed How certain are the dates? The full start date is not confirmed Length About 13 years (exact days not confirmed) Why it is not ranked Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed Dates given by Wikipedia 26 September 1087 to 2 August 1100 About the dates Westminster Abbey gives his death as 2 August 1100 and his coronation as 26 September 1087. Wikipedia uses that coronation date to start the reign. A confirmed accession date is needed before a length in days can be given. Numbered years Read the numbered years for William II Sources Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives his death as 2 August 1100. Gives his coronation as 26 September 1087; the accession date is not confirmed here. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists William II from 26 September 1087 to 2 August 1100.
Henry I 1100 to 1135 Normandy	1100 to 1 December 1135; the start date is not confirmed	About 35 years (exact days not confirmed)	Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed.	Westminster Abbey: royal records
Details: Henry I Royal house Normandy Dates used here 1100 to 1 December 1135; the start date is not confirmed How certain are the dates? The full start date is not confirmed Length About 35 years (exact days not confirmed) Why it is not ranked Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed Dates given by Wikipedia 5 August 1100 to 1 December 1135 About the dates Westminster Abbey gives his death as 1 December 1135 and his coronation as 5 August 1100. Wikipedia starts the reign at the coronation. The accession date is not confirmed here. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry I Sources Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives his death as 1 December 1135. Gives his coronation as 5 August 1100; the accession date is not confirmed here. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry I from 5 August 1100 to 1 December 1135.
Stephen 1135 to 1154 Blois	1135 to 25 October 1154; the start date is not confirmed	About 19 years (exact days not confirmed)	Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed.	Westminster Abbey: royal records
Details: Stephen Royal house Blois Dates used here 1135 to 25 October 1154; the start date is not confirmed How certain are the dates? The full start date is not confirmed Length About 19 years (exact days not confirmed) Why it is not ranked Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed Dates given by Wikipedia 22 December 1135 to 25 October 1154 About the dates Westminster Abbey gives his death as 25 October 1154. Wikipedia starts the reign on 22 December 1135. The cited evidence does not confirm an accession date, so the page gives an approximate length in years. Historical context The Royal Family discusses Stephen and Matilda together. This reign-length table lists Stephen; the lookup identifies Matilda’s disputed claim in 1141 separately. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Stephen Sources Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives his death as 25 October 1154. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Stephen from 22 December 1135 to 25 October 1154.
Henry II 1154 to 1189 Angevin	1154 to 6 July 1189; the start date is not confirmed	About 35 years (exact days not confirmed)	Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed.	Westminster Abbey: royal records
Details: Henry II Royal house Angevin Dates used here 1154 to 6 July 1189; the start date is not confirmed How certain are the dates? The full start date is not confirmed Length About 35 years (exact days not confirmed) Why it is not ranked Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed Dates given by Wikipedia 19 December 1154 to 6 July 1189 About the dates Westminster Abbey gives his death as 6 July 1189 and his coronation as 19 December 1154. Wikipedia uses the coronation to start the reign. The page leaves the accession date unconfirmed. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry II Sources Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives his death as 6 July 1189. Gives his coronation as 19 December 1154; the accession date is not confirmed here. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry II from 19 December 1154 to 6 July 1189.
Richard I 1189 to 1199 Angevin	1189 to 6 April 1199; the start date is not confirmed	About 10 years (exact days not confirmed)	Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed.	Westminster Abbey: royal records
Details: Richard I Royal house Angevin Dates used here 1189 to 6 April 1199; the start date is not confirmed How certain are the dates? The full start date is not confirmed Length About 10 years (exact days not confirmed) Why it is not ranked Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed Dates given by Wikipedia 3 September 1189 to 6 April 1199 About the dates Westminster Abbey gives his death as 6 April 1199 and his coronation as 3 September 1189. Wikipedia uses the coronation to start the reign. The page leaves the accession date unconfirmed. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Richard I Sources Westminster Abbey: royal records: Gives his death as 6 April 1199. Gives his coronation as 3 September 1189; the accession date is not confirmed here. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Richard I from 3 September 1189 to 6 April 1199.
John 1199 to 1216 Angevin	1199 to 19 October 1216; the start date is not confirmed	About 17 years (exact days not confirmed)	Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed.	Hereford Cathedral: royal history
Details: John Royal house Angevin Dates used here 1199 to 19 October 1216; the start date is not confirmed How certain are the dates? The full start date is not confirmed Length About 17 years (exact days not confirmed) Why it is not ranked Not ranked by days: the start date is not confirmed Dates given by Wikipedia 27 May 1199 to 19 October 1216 About the dates Hereford Cathedral gives his death as 19 October 1216. Wikipedia starts the reign on 27 May 1199, but the cited evidence does not confirm that as the accession date. His numbered royal years follow Ascension Day and are explained separately. Numbered years Read the numbered years for John Sources Hereford Cathedral: royal history: Gives his death as 19 October 1216; the full accession date is not confirmed here. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists John from 27 May 1199 to 19 October 1216.
Henry VI (restored reign) 1470 to 1471 Lancaster	3 October 1470 to 11 April 1471 (Julian; Cheney’s table at the Folger Shakespeare Library)	About 1 year (exact days not confirmed)	Not ranked by days: sources disagree on the restoration dates.	Royal Family: sovereign biographies
Details: Henry VI (restored reign) Royal house Lancaster Dates used here 3 October 1470 to 11 April 1471 (Julian; Cheney’s table at the Folger Shakespeare Library) How certain are the dates? The numbered years are documented, but sources disagree on the restoration dates. Length About 1 year (exact days not confirmed) Why it is not ranked Not ranked by days: sources disagree on the restoration dates About the dates Cheney’s regnal-year table, scanned by the Folger Shakespeare Library, gives 3 October 1470 to 11 April 1471 for Henry VI’s restored reign. Wikipedia’s regnal-year table starts his formal restoration on 9 October. The page shows Cheney’s dates for document dating, but does not use them to rank this reign by days. Historical context The restored reign follows Edward IV’s first reign and precedes Edward IV’s restored reign. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Henry VI (restored reign) Sources Royal Family: sovereign biographies: Confirms the reign years for Henry VI, without confirming both full dates. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Lists Henry VI (restored reign) from 3 October 1470 to 11 April 1471.
Charles III 2022; continuing when checked on 28 September 2026 Windsor	Began 8 September 2022; still reigning when checked on 28 September 2026	Still reigning when checked on 28 September 2026	Still reigning when checked on 28 September 2026: a completed length is not available.	Royal Family: sovereign biographies
Details: Charles III Royal house Windsor Dates used here Began 8 September 2022; still reigning when checked on 28 September 2026 How certain are the dates? The reign was continuing when checked on 28 September 2026 Length Still reigning when checked on 28 September 2026 Why it is not ranked Still reigning when checked on 28 September 2026: a completed length is not available About the dates The Royal Family says Charles III became king on 8 September 2022. He was still reigning when these records were checked on 28 September 2026, so they give no completed reign length. That check date is not the end of his reign. His proclamation on 10 September 2022 and coronation in 2023 were separate events. Numbered years Read the numbered years for Charles III Sources Royal Family: sovereign biographies: Says he became king on 8 September 2022. History of Parliament: reign dates: Records the reign beginning 8 September 2022; no end date was listed when checked on 28 September 2026. Wikipedia: English and British monarch lists: Gives his accession as 8 September 2022; no end date was listed when checked on 28 September 2026.

Details: Jane (Lady Jane Grey)

Lady Jane Grey was a disputed claimant in July 1553. She is shown separately in the year lookup and is excluded from this 44-row reign-length dataset, so no length or numbered year is calculated for her here.

University of Victoria: regnal-year table; Look up 1553.

Method and scope

The dataset contains 44 post-Conquest reigns. The year lookup separately labels Harold II and the disputed Edgar Ætheling, Matilda and Jane Grey at the relevant years; they do not enter these duration statistics.

The table starts with William I and English reigns, then covers Great Britain from 1707 and the United Kingdom from 1801. The union of crowns in 1603 did not combine English and Scottish numbered years. A constitutional union does not create a new reign in this table.
Henry VI’s and Edward IV’s restored reigns are listed separately from their earlier reigns. William III and Mary II are listed separately as joint sovereigns. The Interregnum is a gap. Where a source confirms only one full date, the page shows that date and leaves the other unconfirmed.
Harold II and Edward the Confessor ruled before William I and are outside these 44 reigns. The year lookup labels the disputed claims of Edgar Ætheling, Matilda and Lady Jane Grey separately; they are omitted from the length statistics. The shortest listed reign is therefore not necessarily the shortest of every claimant.
Sources may start a reign at accession, proclamation or recognition, and end it at abdication or death. Each Details panel explains the dates used here. Numbered royal years and coronations are separate. Where Wikipedia’s reign list differs from the Royal Family, History of Parliament or another cited source, the row says so and Details names the sources and dates.
A calendar and the day on which its year begins are separate choices. English Old Style years began on 25 March before 1752; the dates in these records use years beginning on 1 January. George I’s death on 11 June Julian and 22 June Gregorian was the same day. The page does not invent missing months, days or times of day.

Download, cite and reuse

Download the 44-row CSV · Download the CSV with sources · Read source and reuse terms.

CSV column guide

Open CSV files as UTF-8 when importing into a spreadsheet. The files are unchanged. Henry VI’s restored dates on the page follow Cheney’s numbered-year table at the Folger Shakespeare Library; the downloads leave his full reign-length dates unconfirmed and omit that reign from day-length statistics.

id, ruler, house: The record identifier, monarch’s name and royal house.
start, end, interval, intervalNumber: The first and last calendar years, a readable year range and a separate reign number. A number of 2 means a restored reign.
status, tier: The kind of reign and how much of its dates is confirmed. The code year-only means full dates are not confirmed; ongoing means the reign is still continuing.
yearSpan, yearEligible: The end year minus the start year, and whether the record is included in the approximate-years summary. This length can be a year out because it ignores months and days. true means included; false means omitted.
exactStart, exactEnd, calendar, endCalendar, yearStyle: Full dates in year-month-day form, their calendars and when a calendar year begins. UNKNOWN means the full date has not been confirmed. A blank end date means an ongoing reign.
daySpan, inclusiveDays, dayEligible: Elapsed days, days counting both the first and last date, and whether the reign is included in day-length statistics. true means included; false means omitted. Blank numeric cells mean no confirmed value, rather than zero.
agreement, retrieved, startNote, endNote, exactNote: AGREE means the two compared chronologies give the same chosen dates; DISAGREE means they differ. Other sources can give additional dates. retrieved is the date the sources were consulted. The note fields explain the dates used.
primary, secondary, secondaryObservedDates: Links to the two compared sources and the dates given by the second source. These column names identify the sources; they do not mean every source agrees.
exactSources, dateEvidence, regnalStatus: Source links, supporting passages and whether numbered royal years are supported. Source entries are separated by | and their named fields by semicolons. bodyHash is a fingerprint of the saved source text, allowing a later check that it has not changed.
supportingFact, observedSource, observedSourceHash, evidenceStatus: Extra columns in the download with sources: the date explanation, links, saved-text fingerprints and whether the evidence confirms both dates needed for a length calculation.
Reading the older notes: The downloadable files are unchanged, so their older notes keep their original wording. The records were last checked on 28 September 2026; that is not the end of a numbered year. The downloadable guide gives a plain explanation for every reign; each Details panel gives the dates and sources.

Download the column guide for the exact spreadsheet headings, date formats, source references and meanings of the inclusion and agreement cells.

Original compilation and calculations: CC BY 4.0. Attribute Ellone-Loire, retain citations and disclose changes. This licence does not cover source prose, images or marks; those retain their own terms.

Cite this dataset

Ellone-Loire. “English and British reign lengths: dates, sources and disagreements.” Updated 1 October 2026; records last checked 28 September 2026. https://ellone-loire.net/reign-lengths/. Include the version, dating explanation and relevant row when citing a calculation.

Corrections: send the monarch, disputed date and source link. The update of 1 October 2026 gives full dates where sources confirm them and explains where dates remain uncertain. It separates accession dates from numbered years, compares lengths in days and leaves reigns that began and ended in the same year out of the approximate-year summary.

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