He was born to Henry Frederick Howard, 25th Earl of Arundel and Lady Elizabeth Stuart. His full title was Thomas Howard, 5th Duke of Norfolk, 23rd Earl of Arundel, 6th Earl of Surrey, 3rd Earl of Norfolk. The dukedom of Norfolk was recreated and given to him in 1660. The 5th Duke was considered mentally deficient and never married, the duties of Earl Marshal being exercised by his brother, Sir Henry Howard, who later succeeded him as Duke.
| Preceded by: Thomas Howard | Duke of Norfolk | Followed by: Henry Howard |
| Preceded by: Henry Howard | Earl of Arundel and of Norfolk |