Windsor
It’s easy to spend a full day in Windsor.
The charming little town of Windsor is located in Berkshire in the English countryside. Windsor is not a large city but it does have many facilities for tourists, due to its proximity to the castle, which draws guests year round. It is surrounded by many attractions and when you stay a day or two, would definitely, keep you busy. Some attractions close by are Legoland, Windsor & Eton Brewery or the Royal Windsor Racecourse, which is ‘THE place to be seen’ and features celebrities such as Rita Ora, who will perform after the racing on Saturday 24 August.
But when that is too much and you just need some relaxing time and take it easy, why not go for some retail therapy. You can enjoy the town’s glorious selection of shops so why not head over to the Windsor Royal Shopping, Centre, located inside a Grade-II listed Victorian railway station.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and is the main attraction in the little town.
Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has since been the home of 39 monarchs. Today The Queen spends most of her private weekends at the Castle. The castle is open to visitors every day from 9:30 – 17:30 from March to October, and from 9:45 – 16:15 from November to February. Tickets for adults are £22.50 and under 17 for £13.00.
It’s easy to get from London to Windsor Castle by train, making it a perfect day trip from London. Trains leave from Paddington Station or from Waterloo Station.
The Castle features many highlights, that will make you easily spend the whole day there, such as the State Apartments-Ceremonial Route and Historic Route, Precincts Tour, Moat Room, St. Gorges Chapel and Treasures of the Castle including the change the guard routine.
Changing The Guard
The privilege of guarding the monarch traditionally belongs to the Household Troops, better known as ‘the Guards’, who have carried out this duty since 1660.
Changing the Guard is a colourful spectacle of British pageantry but also has a military purpose. The ceremony takes place to allow the handover of duties between two groups of guards.
The ceremony usually takes place at 11:00 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The guards march through Windsor town into the Castle, where the guard change takes place. To watch the full ceremony inside the Castle you will need to purchase an admission ticket.
Boat Treat
The famous river Thames winds past Windsor and other attractions. It offers a fresh view of the countryside. There are different companies that are offering special treats to explore Windsor and its surroundings by boat, which gives a unique view, and memories to remember.
The French Brothers Boat Trip offers a 40-minute return trip with views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House, Windsor Racecourse and Brocas Meadows.
When you want something bright and colourful, choose to go with Windsor Duck Tours, which offer a one hour tour that begins by road in the heart of Windsor. Viewing many of Windsor’s most famous sights and ends up on the River Thames to extend the fun.
Afternoon Tea
To finish off your time and for the perfect English experience have an afternoon tea at one of the local Tea Rooms for a little pick-me-up.
Enjoy your tea by a roaring fire in the Drawing Room or at the sunny Brasserie at the Sir Christopher Wren Hotel. Afternoon Tea is served daily from 2 pm to 5 pm, but booking your table online in advance is strongly advised. Or go to Browns Windsor and take a moment to unwind and indulge, where afternoon tea is available daily from 3 pm until 5:30 pm, with incredible views across the Thames from the front and the mighty Windsor Castle from the back.
