Since 2005, Tom Parker Bowles has been part of a family with a unique history. Born to Andrew Parker Bowles and Camilla Shand, who later became the Queen Consort of the United Kingdom, Tom’s upbringing was marked by the complexities of his parents’ relationships and royal affiliations.

Camilla’s journey into royalty began when she married Andrew in 1973, after her previous marriage to Tom’s father ended in divorce. Despite Camilla’s royal ties, Tom and his sister Laura Lopes consider themselves ordinary individuals, not directly impacted by their mother’s royal status.

Tom’s upbringing included a blend of family history and royal connections. His mother, Camilla, born in 1947 to Major Bruce Shand and Rosalind Cubitt, led a life that transitioned from the West End working environment to the royal sphere.

Despite her royal connections, Camilla’s children, including Tom, grew up with a sense of normalcy.

Tom himself pursued a career in food journalism, leveraging his passion for food into a successful writing career. His journey included marrying fashion editor Sara Buys in 2005, and despite their separation in 2018, they maintain an amicable relationship.

Similarly, Tom’s sister, Laura Lopes, pursued her path in the art world, becoming an art curator and co-founding London’s Eleven Fine Art Gallery.

Her marriage to former model Harry Lopes added another dimension to the family’s diverse background.

Despite their mother’s royal status, Tom and Laura maintain a down-to-earth perspective, referring to themselves as “common children.” However, they hold a close relationship with their stepfather, King Charles III, whom Tom admires for his warmth and humanity.

Camilla, now Queen Consort, takes pride in her role as a grandmother to Tom’s children Lola and Frederick, as well as Laura’s children Eliza, Gus, Louis, and Frederick.

 

Despite their royal connections, Tom and Laura embrace a life that balances their family’s history with their individual pursuits and identities.