Princess Anne’s son Peter Phillips gets engaged to Harriet Sperling

Peter Phillips, the son of Princess Anne and eldest grandson of Queen Elizabeth II, has officially announced his engagement to Harriet Sperling. The couple shared the news after a year of dating, releasing two joyful portraits that show Harriet beaming in a white frilly outfit, her diamond ring clearly on display.

The statement, issued through a representative, confirmed that both families were delighted by the announcement. The King and Queen, as well as the Prince and Princess of Wales, have all been informed. A wedding date has yet to be set.

Peter and Harriet’s relationship began in 2024, reportedly after meeting at a sporting event. Their public debut came during the Badminton Horse Trials in May of that year, and they were later seen attending Royal Ascot, where Harriet was photographed chatting with King Charles and Queen Camilla. Harriet, an NHS paediatrician and writer, has since become a familiar face at several royal-adjacent events.

This will be the second marriage for Peter, who was previously married to Autumn Kelly. The former couple share two daughters and continue to co-parent. Harriet also has a daughter, Georgia, and has spoken publicly about the challenges of single motherhood and finding strength through devotion to her child.

Royal watchers had speculated that an engagement was imminent after Harriet joined Peter in the royal procession at Ascot earlier this year. Commentators have praised her effortless style and growing popularity, noting that the so-called ‘Harriet-effect’ has already caused a stir in British fashion circles.

With the royal family welcoming another new member, excitement is building around what will likely be a high-profile wedding in the coming months.