Windsor, England: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Windsor Castle welcomes over 1.5 million visitors annually and holds the distinction of being the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. With nearly 1,000 years of royal history, this magnificent fortress is just the beginning of what makes Windsor one of England’s most captivating destinations. Whether you’re planning a day trip from London or a longer stay, Windsor offers a perfect blend of royal heritage, family attractions, and picturesque riverside charm.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Windsor is conveniently located just 34 km (21 miles) west of London, making it one of the most popular day trips from the capital. There are several transportation options to consider:

By Train

The most convenient way to reach Windsor is by train. Two rail stations serve the town:

• Windsor & Eton Riverside: Direct trains from London Waterloo take approximately 55 minutes.
• Windsor & Eton Central: Trains from London Paddington require a change at Slough, with a total journey time of about 40 minutes.

Both stations are within a 5-minute walk of Windsor Castle, making this an excellent option for day-trippers.

By Car

If you prefer driving, Windsor is easily accessible via the M4 motorway (Junction 6) and is approximately a 45-minute drive from London, depending on traffic. Several public car parks are available in town, though they can fill quickly during peak tourist season.

Best Time to Visit Windsor & Weather Tips

Windsor enjoys a temperate climate with distinct seasons, each offering a different experience for visitors.

Best Time to Visit Windsor

• Late Spring (May-June): Ideal weather with temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F), blooming gardens, and fewer crowds than summer.
• Early Autumn (September-October): Pleasant temperatures of 12-18°C (54-64°F) with beautiful fall colors in Windsor Great Park.
• Summer (July-August): Warmest months with temperatures averaging 18-23°C (64-73°F), but also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

Times to Avoid

• Royal Ascot Week (mid-June): Unless you’re attending the races, accommodation prices soar and the town becomes extremely crowded.
• Winter (December-February): While quieter, shorter days and temperatures of 2-8°C (36-46°F) mean less ideal conditions for exploring outdoor attractions.
• Bank Holiday Weekends: The town can become exceptionally busy during UK public holidays.

For the optimal balance of good weather and manageable crowds, aim for weekdays in May, June, September, or October.

Getting Around Locally

Windsor is a compact town with most major attractions within walking distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.

Walking

Most visitors find walking the most pleasant way to experience Windsor. The distance from Windsor & Eton Riverside station to Windsor Castle is just 500 meters (0.3 miles), and most attractions in the town center are within a 15-minute walk of each other.

Bus Services

Local buses connect Windsor to nearby areas like Eton, Datchet, and Slough. The most useful for tourists is the Park and Ride service from Legoland, which runs to the town center.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

For a comprehensive overview of Windsor’s attractions, consider the hop-on hop-off bus tour that circles the main sights with informative commentary.

River Cruises

A scenic way to see Windsor is from the River Thames. Various boat operators offer cruises ranging from 40 minutes to 2 hours, providing unique views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, and the surrounding countryside.

Where to Stay in Windsor

Windsor offers accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels with castle views to cozy bed and breakfasts. Here are the best areas to consider:

Town Center

Staying in Windsor’s town center puts you within walking distance of Windsor Castle, shops, restaurants, and both train stations. This area is ideal for first-time visitors and those without a car.

Recommended Properties:

• Sir Christopher Wren Hotel & Spa: A historic 4-star hotel on the banks of the Thames with views of Windsor Castle and Eton College.
• Castle Hotel Windsor: Located opposite Windsor Castle, this elegant hotel offers rooms with period features and modern amenities.
• Macdonald Windsor Hotel: A contemporary luxury hotel just a minute’s walk from Windsor Castle.

Riverside

For scenic views and a more peaceful atmosphere, consider staying along the Thames. These properties are still within walking distance of main attractions but offer a more relaxed setting.

Budget Options

Several chain hotels and guesthouses are located on the outskirts of Windsor and in neighboring Slough, offering more affordable options for budget-conscious travelers.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Windsor offers excellent dining options, from traditional British pubs to fine dining establishments. Here are some local specialties and recommended places to eat:

Local Specialties

• Windsor Soup: A traditional vegetable soup dating back to Victorian times.
• Eton Mess: A dessert of crushed meringue, cream, and strawberries named after nearby Eton College.
• Berkshire Pork: The county is known for its high-quality pork products.
• Local Ales: Try beers from the Windsor & Eton Brewery, especially their “Windsor Knot” ale created for royal weddings.

Recommended Restaurants

• The Boatman: Windsor’s only riverside pub restaurant with stunning views of Windsor Castle and Eton Bridge.
• The Two Brewers: A historic pub near the Long Walk serving excellent traditional British fare.
• Gilbey’s Bar & Restaurant: Located in Eton, offering modern British cuisine with seasonal ingredients.
• Windsor Grill: Known for its excellent steaks and British classics.
• Waterside Inn: For a special occasion, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant in nearby Bray is world-renowned.

Afternoon Tea

No visit to Windsor would be complete without experiencing a traditional afternoon tea. The Castle Hotel and Oakley Court offer excellent options with finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of pastries.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Windsor Castle

The crown jewel of Windsor is undoubtedly its magnificent castle. As the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been the family home of British monarchs for nearly 1,000 years. Highlights include:

• State Apartments: Lavishly decorated rooms featuring works by renowned artists like Rembrandt and Rubens.
• St. George’s Chapel: A stunning example of Gothic architecture and the burial place of many monarchs.
• Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: An incredibly detailed miniature royal residence complete with working electricity and plumbing.
• Changing of the Guard: A colorful military ceremony that typically takes place at 11:00 AM on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (weather permitting).

The Long Walk

This straight tree-lined avenue stretches 4.8 km (3 miles) from Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse statue of King George III on Snow Hill. Walking even a portion of this iconic path offers spectacular views of the castle and is completely free.

Eton College

Just across the River Thames lies the prestigious Eton College, founded in 1440 by King Henry VI. This famous boarding school has educated numerous British prime ministers and members of the royal family. Visitors can tour the historic buildings and see the College Chapel during opening hours.

LEGOLAND Windsor Resort

Perfect for families with children aged 2-12, this theme park features over 55 rides, live shows, and building workshops. The Miniland area showcases miniature versions of landmarks from around the world, all built with LEGO bricks.

Windsor Great Park

This 2,020-hectare (5,000-acre) Royal Park offers beautiful landscapes, ancient woodlands, and a deer park. Don’t miss The Savill Garden, a stunning ornamental garden within the park.

Thames River Cruises

See Windsor from a different perspective with a cruise along the River Thames. These 40-minute to 2-hour boat trips offer unique views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, and Mill House.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Museums

• Windsor & Royal Borough Museum: Located in Windsor’s Guildhall, this museum tells the story of Windsor and its royal connections through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
• Eton College Natural History Museum: A fascinating collection of specimens gathered by Eton students and staff over the centuries.
• Windsor Great Park Heritage Centre: Learn about the park’s history and ecological importance.

Cultural Spots

• Theatre Royal Windsor: This historic theater hosts a variety of productions throughout the year, from classic plays to modern performances.
• The Old Court: An arts center offering live music, comedy, film screenings, and workshops.
• Windsor & Eton Brewery: Take a tour to learn about the brewing process and sample locally crafted beers.

Annual Festivals & Events

• Royal Ascot (June): The world-famous horse racing event attended by the Royal Family.
• Windsor Festival (September): A two-week celebration of the arts featuring music, literature, and talks.
• Windsor Fringe Festival (September-October): An independent arts festival showcasing new and experimental work.
• Royal Windsor Horse Show (May): The UK’s largest outdoor horse show held in Windsor Great Park.
• Christmas at Windsor Castle (December): Festive decorations and special tours of the castle.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Windsor Great Park

Beyond the Long Walk, Windsor Great Park offers numerous outdoor activities:

• Deer Watching: The park is home to a herd of around 500 red deer that roam freely in the Deer Park enclosure.
• Cycling: Designated cycling routes wind through the park’s beautiful landscapes.
• Horse Riding: Several approved operators offer guided horseback rides through the park.
• The Savill Garden: 14 hectares (35 acres) of interconnected gardens with plants from around the world.

River Activities

The River Thames provides opportunities for various water-based activities:

• Rowing: Rent a traditional rowing boat and explore the river at your own pace.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Several operators offer equipment rental and guided tours.
• Fishing: With the proper license, you can fish along certain stretches of the river.

Walking Trails

• Thames Path: This national trail follows the river and passes through Windsor, offering beautiful waterside walks.
• Three Castles Path: A 97 km (60-mile) long-distance footpath linking Windsor Castle to Winchester via Odiham.
• Eton Walkway: A 3.2 km (2-mile) circular walk around historic Eton, marked with bronze markers featuring the Eton College shield.

Golf

Several excellent golf courses are located near Windsor, including the Royal Berkshire and Sunningdale Golf Club, one of the most prestigious in the UK.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Safety

Windsor is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Standard travel precautions apply:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
• For emergencies, dial 999 or 112 for police, ambulance, or fire services.
• The nearest hospital with emergency services is Wexham Park Hospital in Slough, about 8 km (5 miles) from Windsor.

Etiquette & Customs

• Royal Protocol: If you happen to encounter a member of the Royal Family, a respectful nod or slight bow/curtsy is appropriate. Address them initially as “Your Royal Highness” and subsequently as “Sir” or “Ma’am” (pronounced to rhyme with “jam”).
• Photography: Photography is not permitted inside Windsor Castle’s State Apartments or St. George’s Chapel. Always respect signs indicating no photography.
• Queuing: The British take queuing (standing in line) seriously. Always join the end of any queue and wait your turn.
• Tipping: A service charge of 10-15% is often included in restaurant bills. If not, a tip of 10-15% is customary for good service. Tipping is not expected in pubs for drinks, but appreciated for food service.

Visiting Windsor Castle

• Security is tight at Windsor Castle. Expect airport-style security checks.
• Arrive early to avoid the longest queues, especially during summer months.
• Check the castle’s website before visiting, as it occasionally closes for state events.
• Dress comfortably but respectfully, especially if you plan to visit St. George’s Chapel.

Visitor Comments About Windsor

Practical Travel Tips

Money

• The currency is the British Pound Sterling (£).
• Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.
• ATMs are readily available throughout Windsor town center.

Language

English is the primary language. While many service industry workers may speak additional languages, having a translation app can be helpful if English isn’t your first language.

Wi-Fi & Connectivity

• Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, and hotels.
• The Windsor town center has free public Wi-Fi in some areas.
• UK power outlets use three-pin plugs (Type G) at 230V, so bring an appropriate adapter.

Time-Saving Tips

• Purchase tickets for Windsor Castle and LEGOLAND online in advance to avoid queues.
• If visiting multiple attractions, consider a London Pass which includes Windsor Castle.
• For a day trip from London, aim to arrive in Windsor before 10:00 AM to beat the crowds.
• Windsor Castle is less crowded in the afternoon, as most tour groups visit in the morning.

Accessibility

Windsor has made efforts to be accessible to all visitors:

• Windsor Castle offers accessible routes for visitors with mobility issues, though some areas remain challenging due to the historic nature of the building.
• Many restaurants and shops in the town center are wheelchair accessible.
• The Long Walk is paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Conclusion

Windsor offers a perfect blend of royal heritage, family attractions, and natural beauty that makes it an essential destination for any UK itinerary. Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of Windsor Castle, strolling along the historic Long Walk, or creating family memories at LEGOLAND, this charming riverside town delivers an experience that’s truly fit for royalty. With its proximity to London and compact, walkable center, Windsor provides an accessible yet immersive glimpse into Britain’s royal history and traditions. Ready to walk in royal footsteps? Start planning your Windsor adventure today!