Granville fought in the English Civil War, on Charles I's side, in the regiment of his father, Sir Bevil Granville. He was created a knight due to his bravery, and became a Gentleman of the Bedchamber to the Prince of Wales. He accompanied Charles II to exile, and mediated with the parliamentarians. In 1660, shortly after the Restoration, he contested the succession of the Dukedom of Albemarle, but lost. He was presently created Earl of Bath, Viscount Granville, and Baron Granville, and invested a Privy Councillor two years later (in 1663). In 1665, he served as the titular Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, although he never went to Ireland (and is consequently not considered a true holder of that office).