Need a royal escape steeped in history and charm? Head to Windsor! Just outside London, Windsor is home to the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, riverside strolls, quaint streets, and regal experiences. Whether you're watching the Changing of the Guard or sipping tea with a view, Windsor is a quintessential English getaway.
Windsor, UK Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Take a boat ride on the Thames – Enjoy a scenic river cruise past Eton College, historic bridges, and lush countryside.
- For History Buffs: Explore Windsor Castle – Visit the official residence of the British monarch, including the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel.
- For Shoppers: Stroll through Windsor Royal Station – Browse boutique shops and dine in this beautifully restored Victorian railway station.
- For Couples: Picnic in Windsor Great Park – Wander manicured gardens and tranquil woodlands once reserved for royalty.
- For Families: Spend a day at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort – Enjoy rides, LEGO-themed zones, and interactive attractions perfect for kids.
Best Time to Visit Windsor, UK
The best time to visit Windsor is from late spring through early autumn (May to September). These months offer mild weather, blooming gardens, and lively seasonal events. Summer is busiest, especially during royal ceremonies and school holidays.
How to Get to Windsor, UK
- If you are traveling by car: Windsor is located just off the M4 motorway, around 30–40 minutes from central London or Heathrow Airport.
- By Train: Trains from London Paddington and London Waterloo arrive at Windsor & Eton Central and Riverside Stations in under an hour.
- By Bus or Coach: National Express and local bus routes connect Windsor to London, Heathrow, and surrounding towns.
Where to Stay in Windsor, UK
- Recommended for Families: LEGOLAND® Resort Hotel – Themed rooms, dining, and early park access make this ideal for families with kids.
- For Couples: Macdonald Windsor Hotel – Elegant hotel facing the castle with boutique charm and fine dining options.
- For Historic Ambiance: Castle Hotel Windsor – MGallery – Stay in a Georgian building steeped in tradition and luxury.
Best Things to Do in Windsor, UK
⮕ Tour the Grand Halls and Historic Grounds of Windsor Castle
© Mistervlad/stock.adobe.com
Built during the 11th century, Windsor Castle remains one of the oldest castles that is still occupied. The castle is perhaps best known for its architecture and history as a residence to Royals. Covering more than 12 acres, the grounds include St. George’s Chapel, Queen Mary’s Doll House, and The Long Walk. St. George’s Chapel is esteemed as one of the most breathtaking buildings in England. The Long Walk is a three-mile long paved path lined with trees on the south side of the castle. Windsor Castle is the favorite weekend home of the Queen of England.
Castle Hill, Windsor SL4 1PD, Phone: +44-30-31-23-73-24
⮕ Ride, Build, and Play Your Way Through Legoland Windsor Resort
© Nigel/stock.adobe.com
Legoland
is an action-filled theme park designed for children between the ages of three and 12. The attractions and rides are inspired by the famous Lego toy company, which was founded in Denmark in 1932. Legoland Windsor welcomed its first visitors in 1996. Many of the offerings and features at Windsor Legoland are similar to those at other Legolands around the globe. Here, kids are unlimited in their imagination. They can pretend to be a pilot, a knight, a captain, or an explorer leading their crew on a wild adventure. With over 50 rides and attractions, there’s plenty of fun to be had.
Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY, Phone: +44-87-12-22-20-01
⮕ Stroll Expansive Gardens and Woodlands at Windsor’s Great Park
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Windsor’s Great Park extends over 4,800 acres and has more than 1,000 years of history. Besides the wide array of horticulture, ancient forests and rare wildlife, there are also several historical monuments to see and experience. Many significant events in Windsor’s long history took place here. Some of those events include William the Conqueror fighting battles on this landscape, and Queen Victoria entertaining party guests near the shores of Virginia Water. Today, visitors can enjoy biking around Swinley Forest and taking a rest to bird watch in the preservation area. Or guests can take a leisurely stroll along the paths of The Valley Gardens.
The Crown Estate Windsor Great Park SL4 2HT, Phone: +44-17-53-86-02-22
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Wander Through Colorful Landscapes at the Beautiful Savill Gardens
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The Savill Gardens were created in the 1930s as a place to grow and cultivate plants from all over the world, many of which are rare species. The gardens are arranged to display and highlight plants during each of the changing seasons. In total, there are eight distinct gardens spanning across 35 acres with names like Hidden Gardens, the New Zealand Garden, The Glades, and Autumn Wood. The atmosphere of Savill Gardens is peaceful. It’s not only a place to discover the most exotic plants from around the world, but a place to spend the day relaxing with friends.
The Crown Estate Windsor Great Park SL4 2HT, Phone: +44-17-53-86-02-22
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Experience Thrilling Horse Races and Elegant Events at Ascot
© Tim Rye/stock.adobe.com
Ascot is a racecourse that was inspired by the late Queen Ann. In the year 1711, she was riding her horse and spotted an area that appeared well suited for a racecourse. Since the racecourse was built, it’s received numerous guests and fans looking for a memorable day out. Capacity is large enough to accommodate 3,000 people. Each year in June, there is a five day celebration at the racecourse called Royal Ascot, where tradition, pageantry and style get celebrated. A few other major events take place during the year, many of which are family friendly.
High St, Ascot SL5 7JX, UK, Phone: +44-34-43-46-30-00
⮕ Step Into Centuries of Academic Tradition at Eton College
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Eton College is a boys’ boarding school that was founded in 1440 by King Henry VI. For centuries, Eton has been a leading independent school that focuses on academic excellence by providing a well-rounded education. More than a thousand boys from the ages of 13 to 18 attend Eton each school year. Tradition, combined with innovative and forward-thinking principles are applied to the curriculum and teaching style. Besides the strong academic setting, the school also offers and encourages participation in sports and other physical activities. The sporting environment is supportive and is a place where students can develop new skills and strengths.
Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 6DW, Phone: +44-0-17-53-37-01-00
⮕ Walk Across Windsor Town Bridge and Enjoy Scenic River Views
© Chris Lofty/stock.adobe.com
The Cross Windsor Town Bridge is situated above River Thames and connects Windsor and the village of Eton. The need for a bridge first arose during the 1100s, at which time a wooden bridge was constructed. More than a hundred years later, in 1242, the bridge was rebuilt from local oak trees. Over the next six centuries that bridge was repaired and restored many times. Then in the early 1820s, the bridge was declared unfit. So, the Duke of York had a new iron bridge built in 1824. With its 55 feet arch, this is still the bridge standing today.
⮕ If You Want a Fun Way to See it All, Then Hop on an Open-top Bus Tour
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City Sightseeing is the company that operates the Open-top Bus Tour. The company originated in Seville, Spain during 1999 and came to the UK a year later, in 2000. Today, the company has tour buses in many countries around the world. Buses are painted bright red and has two levels. The second level is an open-top which offers easy and clear visibility. While in Windsor, one of the bus stops includes the stunning Windsor Castle. It also takes passengers by Eton College, a school that’s more than six centuries old. Finally, another popular stop is 'The Long Walk.'
Phone: +44-17-89-29-91-23
Where to Eat:
⮕ Shop, Dine, and Explore the Historic Windsor Royal Station
© kristina rütten/stock.adobe.com
Windsor Royal Station is the premier shopping destination in Windsor. Located in the former Victorian railway station, the shopping center boasts a rich heritage. For instance, several original features from the railway station were incorporated into the design of the shopping center. Some of the more notable features include the Jubilee Arch and cobbled stone walkways. There is a mix of large name retailers along with a few small independently owned shops. Visitors will find a variety of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops and bars in the Windsor Royal Station. Lastly, the station features a wonderful arts and crafts market.
Arch 5 Goswell Hill, Windsor SL4 1RH, Phone: +44-17-53-79-70-70
⮕ Dine by the River With Global Flavors at GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant
© GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant
GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant is managed by a family that serves African inspired cuisine. GOGOS is an African word that means grandmother. When people visit GOGOS, the owners want them to feel at home, as if their lovely granny is taking care of them. The team at GOGOS Waterfront Restaurant strives to ensure the entire dining experience, including food, drinks, and ambiance is all top-notch. Even more, the restaurant has three pillars that serve as the cornerstone of their business. The pillars are kindness, peace, and prosperity. Diners who visit GOGOS can enjoy their meal outside on decks that offer stunning views of the Racecourse Marina.
Racecourse Marina, Maidenhead Rd, Windsor SL4 5HT, Phone: +44-17-53-86-90-57
If you are interested in local events:
- For Royal Watchers: Changing of the Guard (regular schedule) – Witness this historic ceremony outside Windsor Castle, weather permitting.
- For Garden Lovers: Windsor Spring Festival (April–May) – Enjoy concerts, floral displays, and cultural events around town.
- For Summer Fun: Royal Windsor Horse Show (May) – Held in Windsor Castle grounds, featuring equestrian events and British pageantry.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Windsor, UK:
- For History Buffs: Runnymede (15 min) – Explore the site of the signing of the Magna Carta and tranquil memorial walks.
- For Luxury: Ascot (20 min) – Visit the famous Ascot Racecourse for a day at the races or a stylish afternoon tea.
- For Garden Fans: Savill Garden (20 min) – World-class ornamental gardens in Windsor Great Park open to the public.
- For Riverfront Relaxation: Maidenhead (25 min) – Chill along the Thames with riverside pubs and scenic paths.
- For Culture: Slough & The Curve (15 min) – See art exhibits, performances, and community events at this modern arts and library complex.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Windsor located?
- Windsor is a town in the southeast of England, just 25 miles outside of London.
- What makes Windsor a popular destination?
- Situated along the River Thames and home to the royal Windsor Castle, this town offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty fit for visitors of all ages.
- What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Windsor?
- For a bit of outdoor recreation, stroll through Windsor's Great Park, walk along The Long Walk, or admire rare plant species at Savill Garden.
- What other attractions does Windsor offer?
- Other fun activities include spending the day at Ascot racecourse, shopping at Windsor Royal Station, or taking a family trip to Legoland.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer tourists. |
Macdonald Windsor Hotel – Elegant stay with a central location near Windsor Castle. |
Visit Windsor Great Park – Enjoy scenic walks among vibrant spring flowers. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor events. |
Sir Christopher Wren Hotel – Riverside hotel offering charming views and luxury amenities. |
Explore Windsor Castle – Tour the royal residence and watch the Changing of the Guard. |
Fall (September-November) – Cool weather, autumnal colors, and cultural events. |
The Oakley Court – A stunning Gothic-style country house hotel along the River Thames. |
Take a boat cruise on the Thames – Experience Windsor from the water with beautiful fall scenery. |
Winter (December-February) – Festive atmosphere, Christmas markets, and cozy charm. |
Castle Hotel Windsor – Historic boutique hotel with royal-inspired elegance. |
Visit Windsor’s Christmas Market – Enjoy festive lights, mulled wine, and holiday shopping. |
Plan Your Trip