Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, was the younger daughter of King George VI and sister of Queen Elizabeth II. Her children became prominent figures in their own right, navigating public life under constant media scrutiny while shaping their own family legacies.
Below is a structured overview of Princess Margaret’s children, key relationships, and roles within the British royal context.
Children at a Glance
| Name | Birth | Title at Birth | Notable Roles and Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Armstrong-Jones, 2nd Earl of Snowdon | 3 November 1961 | Viscount Linley | Furniture maker and founder of David Linley Ltd; regular participant in royal events |
| Sarah Armstrong-Jones, Countess of Snowdon | 6 May 1964 | — | Not professionally employed; supports charitable causes alongside her husband |
| Lady Frances Armstrong-Jones | 8 February 1979 | The Lady Frances Armstrong-Jones | Former educator; married with children, carries out occasional royal duties |
| Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones | 24 July 1984 | The Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones | Former photography and design professional; supports arts and heritage charities |
David Armstrong-Jones 2nd Earl of Snowdon
As the only son of Princess Margaret, David Armstrong-Jones inherited the earldom of Snowdon and blended aristocratic heritage with a career in craftsmanship. He chairs the auction house Bonhams and built a respected business around bespoke furniture, proving that royal lineage can coexist with private enterprise.
Family and Marriage
David married Serena Stanhope in 1993, and they have two children, Charles and Margarita. His family life remains under scrutiny, yet he maintains a low public profile focused on work and family stability.
Sarah Armstrong-Jones Countess of Snowdon
Sarah Frances Armstrong-Jones chose a life away from professional royal duties, dedicating her time to family and selected charitable engagements. Her marriage to Daniel Chatto provided a foundation for a quieter public role while still participating in selected royal events.
Public Presence and Philanthropy
Though not a working royal, she attends significant family occasions and supports the arts through her association with the Royal Opera House and other cultural endeavors aligned with her interests.
Lady Frances and Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones
The two daughters of David and Serena, Lady Frances and Lady Sarah grew up with a mix of public attention and private upbringing. Frances has pursued education and teaching, while Sarah has worked in photography and design, contributing to preservation and cultural projects.
Personal Ventures and Charity Work
Both sisters maintain careers outside the palace walls, supporting heritage organizations and participating in events that highlight arts, culture, and education under their own names rather than relying solely on royal association.
Raising a Legacy Outside the Spotlight
Princess Margaret’s descendants illustrate how royal heritage can intersect with personal ambition.
- David Armstrong-Jones built a successful furniture design business and leadership at Bonhams.
- Sarah and Daniel Chatto focused on family life and selective cultural philanthropy.
- Lady Frances and Lady Sarah pursued education and creative careers while supporting heritage charities.
- The family maintains a presence at key royal events without seeking official roles.
- Each generation has shaped its own identity within the broader royal narrative.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many children did Princess Margaret have and what are their names?
Princess Margaret had four children: David Armstrong-Jones, 2nd Earl of Snowdon; Sarah Armstrong-Jones, Countess of Snowdon; Lady Frances Armstrong-Jones; and Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones.
Did any of Princess Margaret’s children hold official royal duties?
David Armstrong-Jones, as a working royal in earlier years, participated in official duties. The younger generation supports charities and cultural institutions but does not carry out formal royal engagements.
Are Princess Margaret’s grandchildren part of the royal family?
Her grandchildren, including Charles Armstrong-Jones and Margriet van Cutsem, are not titled as working royals but attend major family events and remain part of the extended royal circle. Raised under intense scrutiny, they have balanced public interest with private careers, often choosing business, arts, and education over traditional royal roles.