Windsor

To most visitors, the name Windsor means Windsor Castle, but the area has more to offer than the historic grandeur of the nation's most prestigious royal home. Windsor itself is a pretty town, though it is often clogged with tourists, especially in the summer months.

If you can avoid summer weekends, do so. Windsor is unpleasantly crammed with visitors at those times.

The official residence of the reigning monarch, Windsor Castle began life as a simple wooden motte and bailey structure atop the high bluffs overlooking the Thames in 1070.

Throughout the medieval period it was remodelled by a succession of monarchs to become an imposing complex of buildings, most of which are open to visitors. Highlights include the magnificent St. George's Chapel and the State Apartments. More on Windsor Castle here.

Within the grounds of Windsor Great Park are two classic gardens; Savill Gardens, 35 acres of woodland boasting wonderfully colourful displays in spring and summer, and Valley Gardens, open grassland gardens in the "natural" landscape style.

Across the river from Windsor is Eton, home to the most prestigious public school in Britain. Eton was established by Henry VI in the mid 15th century, and since that time has produced 18 prime ministers and stalwarts of the British upper class. The college can be visited from 1400-1630 Easter to September, or from 1030 during term breaks.

Events
Changing the Guard
Windsor Castle
daily except Sunday, 11:00 AM, weather permitting

Swan Upping
Mid-July. In an annual ceremony that dates back to the Middle Ages, representatives of the monarch and the Company of Vintners and Dyers record and mark swans along the Thames.

Attractions
Legoland
Amusement park with rides made of Lego blocks on a huge scale. Legoland is (expensive) family fun. Ticket reservations recommended, as the large crowds make for a long wait at the entry. Phone +44 (0)990 040404

The Guildhall
High Street
Built by Sir Christopher Wren in 1687, Windsor's Guildhall is a typically marvellous example of classic architecture from the builder of St. Paul's Cathedral.

Burford House
Church Street
The main claim to fame of Burford House is that it was used by Charles II to house his favourite mistress Nell Gwyn.

Since the opening of Legoland near Windsor, accommodation in the town can be very hard to come by. If you're planning a visit, do yourself a favour and book well ahead.

Nearest Hotels

Tourist Office, 24 High Street, Windsor 01753 852010

BERKSHIRE
Windsor | Legoland | Reading | Maidenhead | The Ridgeway Path

WINDSOR CASTLE SPECIAL FEATURE
Windsor Castle | Map of Windsor Castle | St George's Chapel | Plan of St George's Chapel

Berkshire web links

Berkshire No 6 The Courtyard Windsor Self catering cottage The apartment offers 1 large double, 1 twin, bathroom with heated towel rail & power shower, double aspect lounge/dining room, galley kitchen. more >> Sleeps 4 More cottages in Berkshire >>

Berkshire No 7 The Courtyard Windsor Self catering cottage The apartment offers 1 large double, 1 twin, bathroom with heated towel rail & power shower, double aspect lounge/dining room, galley kitchen. Both apartments are identical. … more >> Sleeps 4 More cottages in Berkshire >>