The ‘Mixed’ ethnic group classification in the UK Census is regarded as the fastest growing category. Research suggests that up to 30% of the English population may possess a form of mixedness from either their parents or grandparents. My thesis explores how mixed heritage (race, ethnicity and/or nationality) young adults in the UK perceive their grandparents to be influential in shaping their everyday practices, identities, and feelings of belonging. Previous research on grandparents in contemporary British families suggests they have increased their involvement with their grandchildren related to living longer healthier lives and also through supporting families when the mother is in paid employment. When considering mixed families more specifically studies indicates that parents see and use grandparents as a resource when they want their children to feel attachment or understanding to the grandparent(s) cultural background. But limited research focusses on how young adults may find their grandparents influential to a sense of who they are and where they are from. My research explores this by analysing data from Understanding Society Wave 1 alongside a 15-month ethnography in Portsmouth, UK. I present a typology of grandparents from their grandchildren’s perspectives including support-based; activity-based; grandparents-as-hub; and rejection. These orientations I argue contribute to the grandchildren’s sense of self and belonging through forms such as reinforcement of normative place-bound identities; empathy through migration stories; and disidentification with grandparents. My research indicates that grandparents can be considered influential by their grandchildren and contributes suggestions as to why a large proportion of those with mixed heritages in England may not identify within the ‘Mixed’ grouping. Access to this thesis is ‘on request’ only to bone fide researchers with ethical clearance. Please complete the attached request form and return to eprints@soton.ac.uk