British aristocracy

The British aristocracy is the hereditary upper class of the United Kingdom—dukes, marquesses, earls, viscounts, and barons who hold titles passed down through generations.

Historically they wielded political power through the House of Lords and owned vast estates.

Today their influence is largely ceremonial and social, though aristocratic families retain cultural prestige: She married into the British aristocracy.

The term often carries connotations of inherited privilege, old money, and traditional establishment values.