While France had its renowned courtesans, Britain also had its share of famous courtesans who played prominent roles in society. Some of the most well-known British courtesans include:
- Elizabeth Armistead (née Sims): Elizabeth Armistead was a prominent British courtesan in the late 18th century. She was known for her beauty and charm and became the mistress of Charles James Fox, a prominent politician of the time. After Fox’s death, she married another politician, George Armistead.
- Harriette Wilson: Harriette Wilson was a famous Regency-era courtesan in early 19th-century London. She was known for her wit and beauty and had numerous influential lovers. Later in life, she wrote her memoirs, which caused a scandal as she revealed details about her affairs with various notable men.
- Lillie Langtry: Lillie Langtry was not a traditional courtesan but gained fame as a British actress and socialite in the late 19th century. She was known for her beauty and charm and had relationships with several prominent men, including King Edward VII.
- Catherine Walters (Skittles): Catherine Walters, nicknamed “Skittles,” was a famous Victorian courtesan. She gained popularity for her equestrian skills and beauty. Walters was a sought-after model for artists and photographers, and she had relationships with aristocrats and wealthy men.
- Alice Keppel: Alice Keppel was the mistress of King Edward VII and the great-grandmother of Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. She was known for her discretion and charm and held a significant place in the King’s life.
These British courtesans, though not always conforming to the traditional definition of the term, were influential figures in their time and left a lasting impact on the cultural and social landscape of their respective eras.