Windsor, Berkshire

With so much to enjoy and experience why not stay a few days? Crowned by Windsor Castle and linked by the River Thames, the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead has rich heritage and is well known for its fun atmosphere. With internationally renowned events, superb shopping and dining and a range of accommodation to suit all tastes, this is one of England’s most famous short break destinations. Windsor is a small town in the Berkshire countryside, a short distance from Heathrow Airport and less than an hour from London via the train. Thanks to its Royal Residence, Windsor has a wealth of attractions and facilities you would associate with a larger destination, whilst still keeping its country feel.

Here’s our guide to spending 48 Hours in Windsor

You can’t say the name Windsor without conjuring up images of the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, royalty, horse racing, the changing of the guard, the river Thames and Eton College. Windsor thrives on its royal patronage, rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture and beautiful natural scenery. Add to this an abundance of quaint one-of-a-kind shops and a culinary scene headed by the likes of Heston Blumenthal and you’ll have a reasonable idea of the treats in store for you in Windsor.

For details on how to get to Windsor, by car or public transport, click here.

windsor top 5

 

Windsor Castle
The oldest and largest castle in the world. Today HM The Queen spends most of her private weekends here and it’s also used for ceremonial and state occasions.

River Thames Boat Trips
Enjoy the history, stunning scenery and wildlife of this famous river. French Brothers Boats operate cruises year round.

Shopping & Dining
Variety, choice and quality with high street names, independent and specialist retailers and Michelin starred chefs at every turn.

Town Tours
The best way to explore this charming town and the beautiful surrounding countryside is with a local expert and in Windsor you can choose a walking tour with a professional blue badge guide, an open top bus tour, romantic horse-drawn carriage ride or Duck tour.

Town Tours
The best way to explore this charming town and the beautiful surrounding countryside is with a local expert and in Windsor you can choose a walking tour with a professional blue badge guide, an open top bus tour, romantic horse-drawn carriage ride or Duck tour.

Day One

Built by William the Conqueror within what was the royal hunting forest (now Windsor Great Park), Windsor Castle has been successfully enlarged, adapted and rebuilt by monarchs from Henry II to Queen Elizabeth II. Their legacy can be seen throughout the Castle which is also home to some of the greatest paintings and works of arts in the world.

windsor guards

Time your visit so that you can catch the Changing of the Guard Ceremony (11am) that takes place in Lower Ward. This is the only place outside of London where you can see this colourful display whilst listening to the military band.

Relax after lunch on a gentle 40-minute cruise along the river Thames as it meanders past famous sites such as the Eton College Chapel and Royal Windsor Racecourse.

Take a stroll over the bridge to the quaint town of Eton, home to one of England’s oldest institutions, Eton College. Founded by Henry VI in 1440 to provide 70 “worthy boys” with a free education. Today the school is a very modern institution whilst retaining its distinctive “school dress”, age-old traditions, language and sports. Eton High Street is very traditional home to historic tailors, bridal and fashion boutiques, antique shops and art galleries, alongside first class restaurants and al fresco cafes.

Round your day off with a visit to Windsor’s Theatre Royal, under the patronage of Bill Kenwright. The Theatre Royal hosts the greatest names in theatre and many pre West End shows and premieres of national tours.

windsor day 2

 

 

To learn more about this charming town and its history it’s worth taking a guided tour with a local expert. Walking tours with professional Blue Badge Guides start at the Royal Windsor Information Centre at 11am on Saturdays and 2.30pm on Sundays throughout April to September. Nobody knows Windsor and its tales quite like they do.

An hour long tour on a City Sightseeing open top bus is a fun and interesting way to further explore Windsor and Eton. The ticket is valid for 24 hours and there are 11 hop on and off stops along the way giving you the perfect opportunity to spend more time at places that interest you.

The Savill Garden provides a wealth of beauty and interest in all seasons and is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural environment. The world renowned 35 acres offers ornamental gardens and woodland including natural collections and rare international species. The award winning Savill Building houses a spacious restaurant and gift shop.

 

windsor bus

Windsor’s newest attraction is the exciting Duck Tours which takes you on a circular tour of Windsor’s sights before Splashdown! on the river. The Duck is a modern purpose built vehicle and all trips come with a live guide adding their own humorous twist making it fun for all ages.

The Royal Borough is home to two racecourses, world famous Ascot Racecourse and Royal Windsor Racecourse. Famed for its Royal Ascot meet in June, spectacular racing takes place year round and is a truly memorable day out. Royal Windsor Racecourse is an unusual figure of eight track, on an island in the Thames just upstream of the Castle. They host regular Monday Night racing, with a selection of special themed meets throughout the summer season.

Bringing the family? LEGOLAND Windsor is the second most popular theme park in the country and is dedicated to children aged 2-12 years old. With over 55 interactive rides, shows and attractions set in beautiful parkland, it is the perfect family day out.

For information on all these suggested activities, to book tickets and accommodation, contact us on 01753 743900, email windsor.tic@rbwm.gov.uk or visit our website at www.windsor.gov.uk.