Windsor, a charming town just outside London, is steeped in royal history and offers visitors a perfect blend of cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and modern attractions. Known for Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the British monarch, the town is a must-visit destination for travelers to England.
Essential Information About Windsor
- Location: Berkshire, England, approximately 25 miles west of London.
- Population: Around 32,000 residents.
- Famous For: Windsor Castle, Thames riverside views, and its connection to British royalty.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
- Currency: Pound Sterling (£).
Interesting Facts About Windsor
- Oldest Continuously Occupied Castle: Windsor Castle is the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, with over 900 years of history.
- Royal Connections: The castle is a favorite weekend retreat of British monarchs, including the late Queen Elizabeth II.
- Eton College: Located nearby, this prestigious school has educated numerous British prime ministers and members of royalty.
- Changing of the Guard: Windsor has its own ceremonial Changing of the Guard, similar to Buckingham Palace.
- Picturesque Parks: Windsor Great Park, spanning over 4,800 acres, was once a royal hunting ground.
How to Get to Windsor
By Train
- From London Paddington: Take the Great Western Railway to Slough, then transfer to Windsor & Eton Central (around 30 minutes).
- From London Waterloo: Direct trains to Windsor & Eton Riverside (around 50 minutes).
By Car
- Windsor is easily accessible via the M4 motorway. Parking is available at multiple locations in town.
With Bus
- National Express coaches connect Windsor with London and nearby towns.
By Air
- The nearest airport is London Heathrow, just 15 minutes away by car or taxi.
Best Things to Do in Windsor
- Visit Windsor Castle
- Tour the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
- Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Explore Windsor Great Park
- Walk or cycle through the Long Walk, Virginia Water, and Savill Garden.
- Enjoy a Thames River Cruise
- Take a scenic boat trip along the River Thames for stunning views of Windsor Castle.
- Discover Eton
- Stroll through the quaint streets of Eton and visit Eton College.
- Shop and Dine at Windsor Royal Shopping
- Located in a restored Victorian railway station, it’s perfect for boutique shopping and dining.
Best Accommodation Options
Luxury Hotels
- The Oakley Court: A riverside Victorian Gothic mansion offering luxury rooms and stunning grounds.
- Castle Hotel Windsor: A premium hotel close to Windsor Castle, blending historic charm with modern amenities.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Macdonald Windsor Hotel: A stylish hotel just steps from the castle.
- Sir Christopher Wren Hotel: Nestled by the Thames, offering a mix of tradition and contemporary style.
Budget Stays
- Holiday Inn Express Windsor: Affordable, comfortable, and conveniently located.
- Travelodge Windsor Central: A budget-friendly option within walking distance of major attractions.
Good Attractions
- St. George’s Chapel
- Marvel at the Gothic architecture and the resting place of British monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
- Frogmore House
- Open during select times of the year, this royal retreat is known for its beautiful gardens.
- LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
- Perfect for families, this theme park features rides, shows, and LEGO-themed attractions.
- Windsor Guildhall
- A historic venue that has hosted royal weddings and significant town events.
- Datchet Village
- A charming nearby village with traditional English pubs and quaint streets.
Getting Around
- On Foot: Windsor’s compact size makes walking the easiest way to explore.
- Bikes: Rent bicycles for a scenic ride through Windsor Great Park.
- Public Transport: Local buses connect Windsor to nearby attractions and towns.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Convenient for short trips around the area.
Day Trips from Windsor
- Hampton Court Palace
- Discover the former royal residence of King Henry VIII, featuring gardens and a maze.
- Oxford
- Visit the historic university town, just over an hour away by car.
- Kew Gardens
- Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Ascot Racecourse
- Enjoy a day at the races in this iconic venue.
Practical Tips
- Book Tickets in Advance: Especially for Windsor Castle and LEGOLAND.
- Arrive Early: Avoid crowds by visiting popular attractions in the morning.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Expect to do a lot of walking.
- Pack for the Weather: Bring layers and an umbrella as English weather can be unpredictable.
- Check Local Events: Look for special exhibitions or royal ceremonies happening during your visit.
Conclusion
Windsor is a quintessential English town brimming with royal history, scenic charm, and exciting attractions. Whether you’re exploring Windsor Castle, strolling through the Great Park, or venturing to nearby Eton, this destination offers a rich and unforgettable experience. Perfect for day trips or a weekend getaway, Windsor combines historic allure with modern hospitality, making it a must-visit location on your England itinerary.
