The Peerage
There are five grades of the Peerage; Duke, Marquess, Earl, Viscount, and Baron. These titles can only be inherited, normally by the eldest son, or be bestowed upon an individual by the state. It is not possible to buy any of these titles.
Life Peerage
These have been issued since 1958 and cannot be passed down the family line.
Baronet
Entitling the individual to use the prefix Sir, these are hereditary titles and cannot be bought.
Knighthood
A Knighthood is awarded by the state only and is not hereditary. It is not possible to buy a knighthood.
Scottish Feudal Baron
A Scottish Feudal Barony can be bought through an agent such as Barony Titles - www.baronytitles.com. The owner is entitled to use the title '(name) Baron of (placename)'.
English and Irish Feudal Baronies
English Feudal Baronies were abolished in England in 1660 by Act of Parliament and a similar Act was passed in Ireland two years later.
Lord of the Manor
A Lord of the Manor title can be bought through the Manorial Society of Great Britain, and entitles the owner to the title '(name), Lord of the Manor of (place name)'. The owner of the title is not allowed to use the title of 'Lord (name or placename)'. The Manorial Society of Great Britain is a commercial organisation, not an official body. Though some manorial titles do have a historical context, they are not included in Burke’s Peerage.
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