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The Royal Family wished the Princess Royal a happy birthday on social media this morning

Princess Anne is marking her 76th birthday today, with no indication whatsoever that she intends to ease up on her famously demanding schedule.

Having once declared that retirement "was not an option," Anne continues to live by those words.

She undertook 478 public engagements in 2025, a tally surpassed only by King Charles, who managed 52 more.

Sources close to the Princess Royal say she has every intention of maintaining her workload until she reaches at least 80, only then potentially considering a slower pace.

Her tireless dedication is something King Charles deeply appreciates.

Born on August 15 1950, at Clarence House, Anne arrived just two years after her brother, shortly before their mother's accession to the throne transformed the family's life.

With the late Queen and Prince Philip frequently away on lengthy overseas tours, the two siblings spent considerable time together during their formative years, forging a bond that has endured ever since.

That closeness was publicly acknowledged at the Coronation, when Charles bestowed upon his sister the prestigious role of Gold-Stick-in-Waiting — a gesture recognising her steadfast loyalty.

The warmth between them is also evident in Anne's affectionate habit of calling her brother "Old Bean."

Despite her unwavering support for the King, Anne has not shied away from publicly challenging one of his previously championed ideas.

Speaking to Canadian television about the concept of a slimmed-down monarchy, she made her position unmistakably clear.

"Well, I think the 'slimmed-down' (monarchy) was said in a day when there were a few more people around to make that seem like a justifiable comment," she said.

Pressed on the notion that times change, the Princess Royal was characteristically blunt: "It changes a bit. I mean, it doesn't sound like a good idea from where I'm standing, I have to say. I'm not quite sure what else, you know, we can do."

In the weeks ahead, Anne is expected to take a well-earned break, likely joining the rest of the Royal Family for their customary summer retreat at Balmoral.

The respite, however, will be brief. Once September arrives, the Princess Royal is set to resume her schedule of engagements.

Her duties will extend beyond British shores too, with Anne continuing to represent the King at engagements on the international stage.