As a retainer of John of Gaunt (1377–1399) Lancaster was advanced to the rank of King of Arms, and was later promoted to the royal household of Henry IV (Gaunt's son), and made king of the northern province.

This arrangement continued until 1464, when Lancaster reverted to the rank of herald.

Since the reign of Henry VII (1485–1509) Lancaster has been a herald in ordinary.

The badge of office is a red rose of Lancaster, royally crowned.

The current Lancaster Herald of Arms is Adam Tuck.