Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip first met as teenagers during World War II, a moment that set the stage for one of the most enduring royal partnerships of the twentieth century.
Their initial encounter in 1934 at the wedding of a distant cousin was the beginning of a bond that would survive public scrutiny, constitutional change, and personal loss.
| Name | Birth Date | Family Role | Meeting Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Queen Elizabeth II | 21 April 1926 | Eldest daughter of King George VI | Princess Elizabeth, aged 8 |
| Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh | 10 June 1921 | Prince of Greece and Denmark | First cousin once removed, naval cadet |
| Notable Relative | Queen Victoria | Both descended from her, strengthening dynastic ties | |
| Key Event | Wedding of Lady Iris Victoria Alexandra Marie Immaculata of Greece and Denmark, 1934 | Formal introduction at age 13 and 18 | |
Childhood Encounter at a Royal Wedding
Setting and Social Context
The wedding took place at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor, in 1934, uniting two branches of European royalty in a period of rising political tension.
First Impressions and Early Bond
Though young, Elizabeth and Philip were both aware of their shared lineage, and Philip reportedly charmed the children with his energetic personality and naval stories.
Reconnection During Naval Service
Philip in the Royal Navy
By the outbreak of World War II, Philip had joined the Royal Navy, serving with distinction and rising through the ranks as a commander and later a captain.
Correspondence During Wartime
Elizabeth and Philip maintained a steady stream of letters throughout the conflict, which deepened their understanding of each other’s values and ambitions.
Engagement and Institutional Approval
Naval Stationing and Private Courtship
Philip’s visits to Balmoral and royal duties provided opportunities for private courtship, allowing their relationship to develop away from intense media attention.
Formal Engagement Announcement
King George VI gave his formal consent in 1947, and the engagement was announced to the public, signaling a rare moment of optimism after years of war.
Wedding and Public Reception
Ceremony at Westminster Abbey
Their marriage in 1947 was a grand national event, broadcast to millions and framed as a symbol of renewal for postwar Britain.
Gifts and Diplomatic Significance
The wedding featured tokens from across the Commonwealth, reinforcing Philip’s integration into the British royal structure and his role as a bridge between nations.
Lasting Royal Legacy
Their early meeting, wartime devotion, and carefully managed public integration created a partnership that redefined modern monarchy.
- First meeting at a 1934 royal wedding, introducing Elizabeth and Philip as children
- Wartime correspondence that deepened trust and mutual understanding
- Formal engagement in 1947 with the king’s approval
- Historic 1947 wedding signaling renewal for postwar Britain
- Long-term role as a stabilizing force in the Commonwealth and the monarchy
FAQ
Reader questions
Where did Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip first meet?
They met at the wedding of Lady Iris Victoria Alexandra Marie Immaculata of Greece and Denmark at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor, in 1934.
How old were Queen Elizabeth and Philip when they first met?
Queen Elizabeth was eight years old and Philip was eighteen at the time of their first encounter at the royal wedding.
Did Queen Elizabeth and Philip exchange letters during World War II?
Yes, they kept up a consistent correspondence during the war while Philip served in the Royal Navy, which strengthened their emotional connection.
Who gave permission for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip to marry?
King George VI, Elizabeth’s father, formally gave his consent to the marriage in 1947 before the engagement was made public.