How to remember monarchs of England and Great Britain?

Do you like history but you are struggling to remember the facts? A useful mnemonic rhyme for memorising the order of succession to the English Throne, from William the Conqueror (in 1066) right through to the present days of Elizabeth II can helps you. 

Many versions existed through the times and many generations of students use them in the schools, while learning by heart was still popular method.The origin of the rhyme is unknown but it may be about a century old as different endings seem to have been extended to cover the last few monarchs.

Willie, Willie, Harry, Stee,
Harry, Dick, John, Harry Three,
One-To-Three Neds, Richard Two,
Harrys Four-Five-Six... then who?

Edwards Four-Five, Dick the Bad,
Harrys (twain), Ned Six (the lad),
Mary, Bessie, James you ken,
Then Charlie, Charlie, James again...

Will & Mary, Anne of gloria,
Georges (Four), Will Four, Victoria,
Edward Seven next, and then
Came George the Fifth in 1910...

Ned the Eighth soon abdicated,
So George Six was coronated,
Then Number Two Elizabeth...
And that's all, folks until her death!!!





In translation:

William I, William II, Henry I, Stephen,
Henry II, Richard I, John, Henry III,
Edward I, Edward II, Edward III, Richard II,
Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI,

Edward IV, Edward V, Edward III,
Henry VII, Henry  VIII, Edward VI,
Mary I, Elizabeth, James I (& VI of Scotland),
Charles I, Charles  II, James II,

William III & Mary II, Anne,
George I, George II, George III, George IV, 

William IV, Victoria,
Edward VII, George V,
Edward VIII, George VI,
Elizabeth II

It is very useful to know a bit about the British royal history when you visiting UK. You could visit many historic places that are connected in one way or another to the Royal family and the names of rulers and the time when they lived is a huge advantage. Very often you will hear expressions like Victorian time, Georgian windows, Edwardian fashion or Jacobean furniture.