Buying a title of nobility like Lord or Lady seems like something out of a fairytale or period drama. In today’s modern world, can people really purchase and make use of titles like Lord, Lady, Baron, or Baroness? Surprisingly, the answer is yes, you can buy titles – though their legal standing and usage vary.
What is a Lordship Title?
A Lordship title refers to a title of nobility linked to a historic estate or piece of land. The most common titles sold today are Lord, Lady, Baron and Baroness. Legally speaking, these titles are considered “decorative”, meaning they do not grant the holder any legal rights, privileges or abilities. However, they remain popular for their social cachet and connections to history.
Some key facts about decorative Lordship titles:
- Connected to a specific plot of land, granted in history by a monarch.
- Also called manorial titles, linking to an old manor estate.
- No legal powers or rights – simply “decorative” honors.
- Let the holder style themselves as Lord/Lady/Baron/Baroness.
- Price range from £100 to over £100k depending on history.
- Part of lucrative trade in selling plots and titles.
In the past, such titles were granted to loyal subjects by the ruling monarch and carried legal and social privileges. Today the situation is very different – but the attraction remains.
Who Sells Lordship Titles?
There is an established market in the UK selling Lord and Lady titles. They are marketed as souvenirs, novelties, or for their historical romance. Some leading sellers include:
- English Title
- Estated
- Lord Titles
- Manorial Society
- Sealand
The title deeds are offered for sale publicly on these company’s websites and at sites like eBay. Prices range dramatically depending on the actual history and desirability of the title. Some are priced from £100 – £500. More prestigious or rarer titles can cost tens of thousands of pounds.
For example, the Lordship of the Manor of Canute is currently listed for £52,000 while the Lordship of The Manor of Thunderfield will set you back £99,999.
What Do You Actually Get?
While a handsome certificate arrives in the mail when you purchase a Lordship, what benefits do you actually gain? Here is a quick run down:
Legal Name Change
You can legally change your name to add the title Lord/Lady/Baron/Baroness. This allows you to update documents like passports and driver’s licenses.
Land Ownership
A very small symbolic plot of land is included with the title. Usually just a tiny 1×1 foot square. This links the peerage title officially to land owned.
Seat Reservation
When you purchase a title, a seat is reserved for you in the House of Lords chamber. Obviously this does not grant you any ability to vote or participate!
Title Usage
You can freely make use of the decorative title in social situations, on business cards, on websites etc. People are expected to address you as Lord/Lady/Baron/Baroness.
Pass To Heirs
The title can be passed down to your descendants or sold on to others for profit.
Prestige
The cachet and connections to history remain powerful. For some owning even a decorative title is worthwhile for social opportunities.
Are They Legal?
This question generates a lot of debate. Here are some key considerations:
- UK law does not prohibit the sale of Lord or Baron titles.
- However, there are laws against using the titles fraudulently or for financial deception.
- The British authorities consider these titles purely “decorative”.
- They have no legal meaning and do not confer any benefits.
- Titles authorities say most people find them meaningless novelties.
So in summary – it is legal to buy, own and use the titles socially but illegal to use them for business deception or impersonating real nobility. They have no legal validity otherwise.
Should You Buy One?
Whether it’s worth buying a novelty Lordship title is debatable:
Pros
- Satisfies romantic notions of nobility and history.
- Conversation starter at parties and events.
- Gain social prestige in some circles.
- Fun for role playing enthusiasts.
- Can be passed down through family lines.
Cons
- No genuine legal powers or rights.
- Seen as meaningless novelty by many.
- Risk being viewed negatively as pretentious.
- More dignified to earn honorifics through merit.
- Expensive for a decorative accessory.
Conclusion
While Lordship titles can be bought and make for entertaining conversation topics, they do not carry any genuine legal standing. The consensus from British authorities is they are meaningless novelties. However, for history buffs who enjoy the romantic associations, they can be a harmless indulgence. Just don’t expect special treatment! Ultimately, whether having the certificate up on your wall seems worth the cost is a personal choice.
| Title | Starting Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Lordship | £100 | 1 sq. ft plot + Title |
| Barony | £5,000 | Certificate + Coat of Arms |
| Lord of the Manor | £10,000 | Legal Name Change Option |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I call myself Lord legally after buying a title?
You can legally change your name to add the title, but have no special legal rights.
Do I get land with the title?
Yes, most include a tiny 1×1 foot plot to link the title officially to land.
Can I pass down the Lordship to my children?
Yes, the title can be inherited by descendants or sold for profit.
Is there tax or fees to keep the title?
No, there are no ongoing taxes or fees once you purchase the title.
Do people have to address me as Lord?
There is no legal requirement, but people typically will if you request it.