Windsor

The basics

One of England’s most important and stately towns, elegant Windsor is best known for its extraordinary castle. Built in the 11th century after the Norman Conquest and still the preferred residence of the royal family, Windsor Castle is open to visitors throughout the year. Other major attractions in the area include the Grade I listed Windsor Guildhall (now home to the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum), the Grade II listed Windsor Royal Station, the Theatre Royal Windsor, Windsor Great Park, and LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, among many other highlights. Just across the river is Eton College—one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious schools.

Numerous day trip itineraries from London to Windsor are offered. Given Windsor’s proximity to the capital, it’s also possible to plan an independent excursion.

Things to know before you go

• Windsor Castle hosted the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
• The Royal Windsor Information Centre is conveniently located at the Old Booking Hall in Windsor Royal Shopping.
• One of Windsor’s quirkiest landmarks is Queen Charlotte Street. Said to be one of the shortest streets in the country, it’s just shy of 52 feet (16 meters).
• The city’s Heritage Trail and Queen’s Walkway guide self-led visitors to Windsor’s highlight attractions.
• Afternoon tea is a popular Windsor tradition, and the city is home to numerous elegant tearooms, hotels, and cafés where visitors can indulge.
• The Changing of the Guard is held regularly at the Lower Ward of Windsor Castle, while the Guard March sees the Queen’s Guard parade through parts of the city.

How to get there

Roughly 80 trains travel daily between London Paddington and Windsor, while National Express buses offer another transit option. Alternatively, if you plan to drive, it’s roughly an hour-long trip along the M4.

When to get there

Windsor is a thriving destination throughout the year, and hosts special festivals and events in every season. Windsor Castle is open daily. Between March and October it’s open from 10am–5:15pm; between November and February it’s open from 10am–4:15pm. Last entry is 75 minutes prior to closing time.

Festivals and Events in Windsor

Windsor hosts numerous major events throughout the year. The Royal Windsor Horse Show is held at Windsor Castle each May, the Windsor Festival is held in September, and the Windsor Fringe Festival is on in September and October. The Reading Festival, a music festival held every August, is also a highlight of the area.