The 8th Earl Grey: A New Chapter Begins

In 2023, following the passing of his father, Philip Grey, the title of Earl Grey passed to Alexander Grey, who became the 8th Earl Grey and the latest custodian of one of Britain’s most recognised family legacies.

For many around the world, the name Earl Grey is immediately associated with the famous tea enjoyed in homes, cafés and drawing rooms across more than a hundred countries. Yet behind the name lies a family history spanning centuries, encompassing politics, public service, military leadership and a lasting connection to Britain and Canada.

The title itself was created in 1806 for General Charles Grey, a distinguished military commander. His son, Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey, would go on to become Prime Minister and oversee the Great Reform Act of 1832, one of the most significant constitutional reforms in British history. It is his name that would later become associated with the world-famous blend of tea that continues to bear the Earl Grey name today.

While the title has passed through eight generations of the Grey family, the responsibilities of preserving and celebrating that heritage remain as important as ever.

Today, Alexander Grey lives in Devon and has begun a new chapter for the Earl Grey legacy. Working alongside family members, historians, heritage organisations and commercial partners, he is helping to reconnect the title with the people, places and stories that have shaped its history.

Recent initiatives include the establishment of Earl Grey Day on 7 June each year, commemorating the passing of the Reform Act and celebrating the enduring contribution of the Grey family to British public life. The family has also begun engaging with organisations connected to the Earl Grey story, including Twinings, whose Earl Grey tea remains one of the world’s most recognised and enduring brands.

Looking ahead, there is an exciting opportunity to share more of the Grey family’s remarkable history with a wider audience. Through heritage projects, partnerships, events and future collections inspired by the Earl Grey legacy, this new chapter seeks to honour the past while creating something meaningful for future generations.

As the 8th Earl Grey, Alexander sees himself not simply as the holder of a historic title, but as a steward of a story that continues to resonate around the world.

This is the beginning of that next chapter.