Prince William to guest-edit British magazine Country Life

What the heir to the throne will be writing about

Prince William is taking on a new role as guest editor, working on a special issue of the British magazine Country Life.

Set to be published on November 11, the issue will see the heir to the throne share his love of the British countryside, discuss nature conservation and community support, and explore other causes close to his heart.

For William, the project offers an opportunity to talk about subjects that matter to him beyond the familiar format of official royal engagements. The King’s son will share personal stories and reveal some of his own favourites, including a favourite painting, a landscape he particularly admires, and a recipe. The prince will also write an editorial column, The Independent reports.

One of the issue’s central themes will be the mental health of people living in rural areas. William hopes to draw attention to the challenges of accessing psychological support, as getting the help they need can often be more difficult for people outside major cities. The issue will also explore environmental initiatives and efforts to preserve the British countryside.

Country Life editor-in-chief Mark Hedges described the prince as «someone who has a genuine passion for rural life» and cares deeply about the well-being of those who work the land. The project is particularly fitting given William’s role as Duke of Cornwall. The Duchy’s estate, which spans approximately 128,000 acres across 19 counties, falls under his management.

Interestingly, William is not the first member of his family to take on the role of guest editor. His father, King Charles III, guest-edited Country Life twice — in 2013, ahead of his 65th birthday, and again in 2018, shortly before turning 70.

Princess Anne continued the family tradition in 2020, followed by Queen Camilla, who curated a special issue of the magazine in 2022.

Photos: Instagram @walesroyalfans, @theprinceandprincessofwales