WINDSOR TRAVEL GUIDE
Windsor is a beautiful, compact market town completely dominated by the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. One thing I didn't expect on my first trip here was the sheer volume of the aeroplanes flying overhead. Because you are right on the Heathrow flight path, the modern roar of jet engines constantly interrupts the ancient, peaceful charm of the town. It is a bit of a shock, to be honest. But once you get used to it, you'll find a place packed with royal history, uneven cobblestones that will absolutely ruin flat shoes, and historic pubs where the ceilings are practically touching the floor. Whether you want to watch the marching bands on the high street, get lost in the greenery of the Great Park, or just enjoy a quiet pint by the River Thames, our Windsor travel guide gives you absolutely everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Discover Windsor: The Ultimate Town Guide
Essential Info to Know Before Visiting Windsor
Currency
British Pound Sterling (£)
Population
Approximately 35,000 (2021 Census)
Status
Historic Royal Town
Nearest Airports
Heathrow (LHR)
Gatwick (LGW)
Stansted (STN)
Key Districts
1. Castle Environs: Tourist heart
2. Eton: Historic college town
3. Peascod Street: Main shopping
4. The Riverfront: Swans and pubs
5. The Great Park: Nature
Emergency Contacts
🚓 Police, Fire, Ambulance: 999
📞 Non-Emergency Police: 101
⚕️ Non-Emergency Medical: 111
Why You Should Visit Windsor:
8 Reasons to Love the Royal Borough
The Castle
It is the oldest occupied castle in the world. Walking up the hill and seeing those massive stone walls looming over the high street never gets old.
The Great Park
Escape the crowds and wander through hundreds of acres of ancient forests. You'll likely spot wild red deer casually grazing near the footpaths.
Eton College
Just a short walk across the river takes you to this famous school. The old boys in their black tailcoats make it feel like you stepped onto a film set.
Riverside Pints
There is nothing quite like grabbing a cold ale on a summer evening and sitting by the Thames watching the swans glide past the rowboats.
Guard Changes
You can literally stand on the pavement and watch a full brass band marching the King's Guards right through the town centre traffic.
Handmade Fudge
The smell of warm sugar pouring out of the Fudge Kitchen on Thames Street is legendary. They even let you watch them flip it on the marble slabs.
Walkable Size
Unlike massive cities, Windsor is wonderfully compact. You can comfortably walk between the shops, the castle, and the river in just a few minutes.
Boat Trips
Hop on a passenger boat to cruise the Thames. It offers a totally different, highly relaxing perspective of the castle and the surrounding meadows.
Who Should Visit (And Who Shouldn't):
Is Windsor Right For You?
WHO WILL LOVE IT
WHO MIGHT HATE IT
Does Windsor Have...?
Quick answers for first-time visitors
Deep History?
Absolutely. The castle was founded in the 11th century by William the Conqueror.
Wild Nightlife?
No. If I'm honest, the evening scene is very quiet, mostly focused around old, traditional pubs and cosy restaurants.
Mega Malls?
No. Shopping here is mostly independent boutiques, high street names, and tourist shops scattered along Peascod Street.
Easy Walking?
Yes. The town centre is largely pedestrianised. Just beware of the uneven cobblestones near the castle walls.
Peaceful Nature?
Yes. Walk ten minutes from the busy shops and you are surrounded by the vast greenery of Windsor Great Park.
A Proper Beach?
No. You are inland. The only water here is the fresh, fast-flowing River Thames.
Mountain Hiking?
No. Berkshire is quite flat. The biggest hill you'll climb is the slope leading up to the castle gates.
Good Transport?
Yes. It has two separate train stations connecting directly to the London network, making day trips incredibly simple.
Fun Facts About Windsor:
Things You Didn't Know About the Royal Town
Squawk! Did you know you can easily tell if the King is actually at home? Just look at the main flagpole. If the Royal Standard is flying, he is in. If it is the Union Flag (often called the Union Jack), he is away!
Here are a few more squawkin' good facts:
A Precise Walk
The famous tree-lined avenue known as The Long Walk stretches from the castle gates for exactly 2.64 miles into the park.
The Wonky House
The famous Crooked House near the Guildhall is genuinely slanted. It dates from the late 17th century (c. 1687) and its lean is commonly attributed to the use of unseasoned green oak, which warped as it dried.
Royal Swans
By tradition, the Crown retains the right to claim ownership of any unmarked mute swan on open waters, though in practice this is mainly exercised on certain stretches of the River Thames. There is even an annual census called "Swan Upping" held on the Thames.
Location of Windsor:
Where to Find the Town
Geographic Location
Windsor is located in the historic county of Berkshire, situated just south of the River Thames, roughly 20 miles west of Central London.
Neighbouring Areas
It is connected by a bridge to the small town of Eton. It is also very close to the bustling town of Slough and borders the edges of Surrey.
Windsor History:
A Timeline of Royal Drama
The history of Windsor is entirely wrapped up in the colossal walls of its castle. It has seen monarchs rise, fall, and survive for almost a thousand years.
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1070: Norman Origins
William the Conqueror originally built a wooden motte-and-bailey fort here to protect the western approach to London along the river.
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1215: The Magna Carta
King John rode out from Windsor Castle to nearby Runnymede to reluctantly seal the Magna Carta, a crucial document in legal history.
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1642: The Civil War
During the English Civil War, parliamentary forces occupied the castle and used it as a harsh military prison for captured royalists.
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1440: Eton Founded
King Henry VI founded Eton College just across the river. It has since educated twenty British Prime Ministers and numerous royals.
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1992: The Great Fire
A devastating fire broke out in Queen Victoria's private chapel, destroying 115 rooms. The multi-million-pound restoration took five years to complete.
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2022: A Royal Rest
Following her passing, Queen Elizabeth II was permanently laid to rest inside St George's Chapel alongside her husband, Prince Philip.
Windsor Weather Overview:
What to Expect from the Seasons
Spring & Autumn
Summer (June to August)
Winter (Dec to February)
Airport Transfers:
Getting to Windsor from the Airport
Heathrow (LHR)
TAXI / UBER: This is by far the easiest option. Heathrow is incredibly close, typically around 20–40 minutes by taxi/private hire (traffic dependent). Fares vary widely—check the price in-app or with the driver before you travel.
BUS: Thames Valley Buses’ Flightline 703 runs between Heathrow Terminal 5 and Windsor (and beyond). Journey times and fares vary with traffic—check the latest timetable/fares before you travel.
Gatwick (LGW)
TRAIN: Take the train from Gatwick up to Clapham Junction, switch to a train heading to Windsor & Eton Riverside. Journey time varies by route and connection (fastest around 1h 23m, often ~2h+). Fares vary—check the timetable/prices for your travel day.
Stansted (STN)
TRAIN & TUBE: This is a long haul. You have to take the Stansted Express into central London, cross the city on the Tube, and take another train out to Windsor. Budget around 2½ hours by train on average (longer with poor connections). Fares vary—check prices for your travel time.
Two Train Stations:
Don't Get Confused
Windsor & Eton Central
This station is literally tucked inside a shopping centre right opposite the castle walls. It serves the Great Western Railway (GWR). You take a very short shuttle train to Slough, where you connect to fast trains straight into London Paddington.
Windsor & Eton Riverside
Located down at the bottom of the hill near the river. This serves South Western Railway (SWR). It is a direct, slower commuter line that winds its way right into London Waterloo. It is worth knowing which station your ticket is booked for!
Getting Around Windsor:
Navigating the Royal Town
Walking
The absolute best way to get around. The town is tiny. You can walk from the main shopping street to the castle in under five minutes. Just watch out for the uneven kerbs.
Hackney Carriages
You will find traditional black cabs waiting at ranks outside both train stations and near the castle. They are perfect for a quick, dry trip if the rain starts pouring.
Local Buses
The local bus network is very reliable. If you are heading out to Legoland with the kids, you can catch a dedicated shuttle bus right from the town centre.
Uber
Uber operates in the area, which is highly useful if you are staying a bit further out in villages like Datchet or travelling back from a pub late at night.
Cycling
The town centre gets too crowded for fast cycling, but renting a bike to explore the vast paved tracks inside Windsor Great Park is a brilliant afternoon activity.
Boat Trips
Not exactly a commuter option, but taking a passenger boat from the promenade is a lovely way to get up or down the river to see the locks.
Driving
If I'm honest, avoid driving in the centre. The one-way systems are confusing, traffic is heavy, and parking fees are punishingly high.
Park & Ride
If you must bring a car, use the official Park & Ride sites (LEGOLAND®, Home Park, or King Edward VII) and take the bus into town.
Windsor Hotel Guide:
Where to Sleep in the Borough
Central Windsor
PREMIUM & CONVENIENT
PRICE RANGE: £150 to £350 per night
Ideal for: Waking up to castle views, stepping right out into the shops, and zero transport hassle.
Eton Village
HISTORIC & QUIET
PRICE RANGE: £130 to £250 per night
Ideal for: Charming boutique inns, very quiet evenings, and feeling like you are in a Dickens novel.
Outskirts & Slough
BUDGET & PRACTICAL
PRICE RANGE: £60 to £120 per night
Ideal for: Saving a lot of cash by staying just a ten-minute bus or train ride away from the castle.
PRICE WATCH:
PEAK (JULY TO AUGUST): Expect the highest rates when international tourists flood in and the weather is warm.
GOOD VALUE (SPRING & AUTUMN): The weather is pleasant and you miss the massive summer queues.
LOWEST (JANUARY TO FEBRUARY): It is cold, but hotel prices drop significantly after the Christmas lights come down.
Cheapest Areas to Stay Near Windsor:
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
Slough
It is not as pretty as Windsor, but the budget hotel chains here are drastically cheaper. Plus, the train ride from Slough into Windsor takes exactly six minutes.
Datchet
A lovely, quiet little village just a couple of miles away. It has a train station on the direct line, offering cheaper B&B options without losing the local charm.
Langley
Located just east of Slough, this area offers basic, affordable lodging. You'll need to catch a bus or rely on a short taxi ride, but it saves you a fortune.
Top Must-Visit Attractions in Windsor:
Explore the Royal Landmarks
WINDSOR CASTLE
GOOD FOR: Royal history, the State Apartments, and sheer scale.
The defining feature of the town. You can tour the incredibly opulent State Apartments and see Queen Mary's spectacular Doll's House. Keep an eye out for the guards standing completely motionless in their sentry boxes.
📍 LOCATION: Windsor Town Centre
ST GEORGE'S CHAPEL
GOOD FOR: Stunning Gothic architecture and royal tombs.
Located entirely within the castle walls. It is an active place of worship and the final resting place of many monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II and Henry VIII.
📍 LOCATION: Inside Windsor Castle
THE LONG WALK
GOOD FOR: Incredible photo opportunities and fresh air.
A dead-straight, 2.64-mile paved avenue stretching from the castle down to the Copper Horse statue. It is completely free to walk and offers the best, unobstructed view of the castle.
📍 LOCATION: Windsor Great Park
ETON COLLEGE
GOOD FOR: Historic charm and seeing the famous tailcoats.
Cross the pedestrian bridge into Eton to see this elite school. To be honest, seeing teenagers walking around in full tailcoats on a Tuesday morning is a surreal experience.
📍 LOCATION: Eton High Street
LEGOLAND WINDSOR
GOOD FOR: Families with kids under 12.
A massive theme park dedicated entirely to the plastic brick. The incredible Miniland features a tiny, highly detailed model of London that is genuinely impressive even for adults.
📍 LOCATION: Winkfield Road
WINDSOR GREAT PARK
GOOD FOR: Red deer spotting and massive ancient oaks.
This huge expanse of parkland was once a private royal hunting ground. Now, you can roam freely through beautiful forests and perfectly maintained gardens.
📍 LOCATION: South of the town
THE CROOKED HOUSE
GOOD FOR: Quirky photos and a quick stop.
A hilariously wonky timber-framed building nestled near the Guildhall. It looks like it is about to fall right over into the street. It is a very quick stop, but a must-see for a photo.
📍 LOCATION: High Street
RIVER BOAT TRIPS
GOOD FOR: Resting tired legs and scenic views.
Head down to the promenade and catch a 40-minute boat trip. You get excellent views of the castle from the water and get to see some very expensive riverside homes.
📍 LOCATION: Windsor Promenade
WINDSOR GUILDHALL
GOOD FOR: Architectural quirks and modern royal history.
This elegant building is famously where King Charles and Camilla were married. Look closely at the columns underneath; local legend says the internal columns were left slightly short of the ceiling (and appear not to support it), but the story is unproven.
📍 LOCATION: High Street
Best Shopping Areas:
Where to Browse Like a Local
Peascod Street
This is the main pedestrianised shopping street cutting right down the hill. It is packed with reliable high-street clothing brands, coffee shops, and small department stores.
Windsor Royal Station
A brilliant, semi-covered shopping concourse built right into the old Victorian railway arches. You can browse boutique stores while grabbing a coffee near the old steam train replica.
Eton High Street
Cross the bridge if you want a much quieter vibe. It is lined with high-end antique shops, rare book dealers, and old-fashioned tailors displaying expensive tweeds.
What Souvenirs to Buy in Windsor:
Must-Buy Keepsakes from the Town
Handmade Fudge
A sweet, heavy brick of sugar. Grab a fresh slab from the Fudge Kitchen on Thames Street. They will usually hand you a warm, free sample if you walk past the door.
£6 to £15
Royal China
Official collection merchandise. You can buy incredibly ornate, gilded teacups and plates straight from the official shop inside the castle grounds.
£25 to £60
Local Ale
A taste of the town. Pick up a few bottles of "Windsor Knot" pale ale from the Windsor & Eton Brewery. It is a fantastic, highly local gift to bring home.
£3 to £12
Guard Bears
A classic toy. Every single souvenir shop on the high street sells plush teddy bears dressed in the iconic red tunics and tall black bearskin hats.
£10 to £20
Windsor Cuisine: A Royal Feast
What to Eat Near the Castle
Classic British
SUNDAY ROAST: £18 to £24. Head to The Two Brewers near the park gates for thick slices of beef and perfectly crispy roast potatoes cooked in beef dripping.
FISH AND CHIPS: £14 to £18. Grab a hot, battered cod from a local chippy. Best eaten out of the paper while sitting on a bench near the river.
FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST: £11 to £16. Start the day with eggs, bacon, and sausages at Cinnamon Cafe in the old station concourse.
CORNISH PASTY: £5 to £7. A dense, meat-filled pastry that is perfect for a cheap, hot lunch while walking.
Sweet Treats
ETON MESS: £7 to £9. This famous dessert of crushed meringue, cream, and strawberries is commonly believed to originate from Eton College, just across the bridge.
AFTERNOON TEA: £30 to £55. Delicate sandwiches and warm scones at the Clarence Brasserie. You must book this well in advance.
VANILLA ICE CREAM: £4 to £6. Walk over to Fortescue's near the bridge for a hefty scoop of thick, creamy gelato on a hot afternoon.
FRESH FUDGE: £6. A slice of incredibly sweet, soft sea-salt caramel fudge. It is impossible to walk past without buying some.
Windsor Pints & Bites
PIMM'S AND LEMONADE: £8 to £10. The absolute perfect drink for sitting by the river in July, packed with mint, strawberries, and cucumber.
SAUSAGE ROLL: £3 to £5. Stop by an independent bakery on Peascod Street for a warm, flaky, highly seasoned sausage roll to keep your energy up.
LOCAL PALE ALE: £6 to £7.50. Order a pint of Windsor Knot or Guardsman ale at a historic tavern. To be honest, it tastes much better when sitting under a wonky oak beam.
GASTROPUB BURGER: £16 to £20. A thick beef patty served with triple-cooked chips. Head slightly away from the castle walls for the best quality.
Best Nightlife Area in Windsor:
Where to Go When the Sun Sets
Peascod Street Pubs
The streets radiating off the main shopping drag are full of traditional, lively pubs like The Carpenters Arms. It is perfect for a casual evening of standing around with a pint of ale.
Thames Street
Head down towards the river. Venues like The Boatman offer a slightly more relaxed, scenic vibe where you can enjoy a glass of wine while the sunset reflects off the water.
Eton High Street
If you want a truly quiet, historic atmosphere, walk across the bridge. The George Inn offers cosy corners, open fires, and a deeply peaceful escape from the tourist crowds.
Windsor Culture:
Daily Quirks of the Town
The Plane Pause
Because the Heathrow planes fly so low over the town, locals often completely pause their conversations mid-sentence for five seconds to let the roar pass, then just carry on.
Respect the Swans
The river is full of massive white swans. They are aggressively confident. Locals know to give them a wide berth on the towpath because they will hiss and snap if you get too close.
Castle Queueing
Queueing is a religion here. In the summer, the line to enter the castle wraps right around the pavement. You must wait patiently. Cutting in line is deeply frowned upon.
Pub Etiquette
Just like the rest of the UK, there is usually no table service for drinks. You go up to the bar, order your pints, pay immediately, and carry them back to your seat.
The Slow Pace
Unlike the frantic rush of London, people walk quite slowly here. Taking an aimless afternoon stroll down the Long Walk is practically a mandatory local hobby.
Guard Watching
When the King's Guards march through the traffic on the High Street, everyone stops to watch. It is completely normal to see a delivery van waiting patiently behind a brass band.
Windsor Architectural Styles:
Explore the Historic Streets
Norman & Gothic
The skyline is completely dominated by the castle's heavy, grey stone battlements. The original Norman motte is topped with the iconic Round Tower, while St George's Chapel showcases some of the finest, most intricate Perpendicular Gothic architecture in the entire country.
Tudor Timber
Dotted around the oldest parts of town, you will find incredibly wonky, black-and-white timber-framed buildings from the Tudor period. The Crooked House is the most famous example, with heavy wooden beams that have warped drastically over the centuries.
Georgian Elegance
Walk across to Eton or explore the streets just behind the castle, and you will find beautiful, highly symmetrical Georgian red-brick townhouses. They feature elegant flat fronts, sash windows, and bright, glossy front doors that give the town its classic, wealthy feel.
Unique Experiences to Do in Windsor:
Beyond the Castle Walls
Carriage Rides
Book a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride through the Great Park. It is incredibly relaxing, feels deeply royal, and gets you far away from the noisy tourist centre.
Ghost Tours
Join a spooky evening walking tour. A guide will lead you through the dark, cobbled alleyways while telling gruesome historical stories about executions and phantom monks.
The Brocas Meadow
Cross the bridge to the Eton side and walk down to The Brocas. It is a large, grassy meadow offering arguably the absolute best, sweeping view of the castle across the water.
BEST SPORTS & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN WINDSOR:
Get Active by the River
Thames Paddleboarding
On a calm, sunny day, you can rent a paddleboard or kayak and glide slowly along the river. It gives you a fantastic, water-level view of the historic bridges.
Cycling the Park
Rent a bicycle and tackle the wide, paved paths of Windsor Great Park. It is the perfect way to cover the massive distances without tiring out your legs on the Long Walk.
The Thames Path
Put on some sturdy walking boots and follow the Thames Path westward towards Boveney Lock. It is a wonderfully peaceful, flat dirt trail right next to the flowing water.
Things to Do in Windsor with Kids:
Family Fun in the Borough
Legoland Resort
A guaranteed win for younger kids. It features thrilling, kid-friendly rollercoasters, driving schools, and millions of plastic bricks. Catch the shuttle bus from town.
The Marching Band
Kids absolutely love watching the Changing of the Guard. The soldiers march right up the high street in their bright red tunics playing loud brass instruments.
Alexandra Gardens
A lovely park right next to the river. Kids can safely burn off energy on the grassy lawns, play a round of mini-golf, or feed the ducks. Just don't feed them bread!
Festivals in Windsor:
When the Town Comes Alive
Royal Horse Show (May)
A massive, prestigious equestrian event held right in the private grounds of the castle. It features showjumping, carriage driving, and often appearances by members of the Royal Family.
Swan Upping (July)
A highly unusual, deeply historic five-day event where the King's Swan Marker rows up the river in traditional boats to count and check the health of the mute swans.
Windsor Festival (dates vary)
A celebration of music, literature, and arts with dates that vary year to year—check the official programme for the current schedule. They often host classical concerts right inside the spectacular, echoing nave of St George's Chapel.
Windsor Great Park Illuminated (festive season)
During the winter, the Great Park transforms into a magical, glowing light trail. You walk through forests lit up by lasers and huge, glowing sculptures while drinking hot chocolate.
Windsor Itinerary Ideas:
How to Spend Your Time
The 1-Day Dash
MORNING: Pre-book tickets and head straight into the Castle at 10 AM. See the State Apartments and the Chapel.
AFTERNOON: Grab a quick pub lunch. Walk down the Long Walk for a great photo, then head across the bridge to explore Eton High Street before dinner.
The 2-Day Weekender
DAY 1: Dedicate the entire morning to the Castle. In the afternoon, take a 40-minute boat trip on the Thames, then have a relaxed dinner near the river.
DAY 2: Walk the entire length of the Long Walk to the Copper Horse. Reward yourself with a massive Sunday Roast, then spend the afternoon wandering the antique shops of Eton.
Day Trips
LONDON: Just a short train ride away. You can easily spend the day exploring massive museums before returning to the quiet of Windsor.
OXFORD: An hour's drive west. Wander the stunning, historic university colleges and punt down the river.
BATH: Head further west on the GWR train to see the brilliantly preserved Roman baths.
A Perfect Day in Windsor:
Experience the Town Like a Local
09:00 AM
Start the morning with a strong coffee and a full cooked breakfast at Cinnamon Cafe right inside the old station. You will need the energy for the castle hill.
10:30 AM
Join the queue to enter the Castle. Spend two hours walking through the heavily gilded state rooms and staring up at the vaulted ceiling in St George's Chapel.
01:30 PM
Escape the tourist crowds by walking down to a historic pub. Order a hearty burger and a pint of Windsor Knot pale ale to rest your tired feet.
03:30 PM
Walk down the iconic Long Walk. It is beautifully peaceful. Once you hit the halfway point, turn around to see the castle framed perfectly by the trees.
Windsor Budget Scale:
Cost of Visiting the Town (Lower = Cheaper)
Transport
SCORE: 2/10 (Very Cheap)
Because the town is so small, you literally don't need to spend any money on transport once you arrive. You just walk everywhere.
Accommodation
SCORE: 9/10
Staying right in the shadow of the castle comes at a massive premium. Expect to pay over £150 a night for anything decent in the centre.
Food
SCORE: 8/10
Dining near the castle is expensive. A standard pub meal will set you back £18 to £24. Grab a pasty from a bakery to save cash.
Alcohol
SCORE: 8/10
You are essentially paying London prices. A pint of local ale usually costs between £6.00 and £7.50 depending on how close you are to the water.
Attractions
SCORE: 7/10
The Castle ticket is a hefty hit, usually over £30 per adult. However, walking the Great Park and watching the guards is completely free.
Shopping
SCORE: 8/10
There are some high-street bargains, but the boutique shops in Eton and the royal souvenir stores charge high prices for luxury goods.
OVERALL WINDSOR COST SCORE:
Trav's Travel Hacks to Save Money in Windsor:
Smart Tips to Stretch Your Travel Budget
Windsor is notoriously pricey, but do not panic! Use my brilliant local hacks to save your precious pounds.
Check out these amazing money-saving tips:
Free Guard Watching
You absolutely do not need to pay the £30+ castle entry fee just to see the guards. On days when the Windsor Guard March / Changing the Guard is scheduled, the guards typically step off in the late morning (often around 10:45) and march through the town—check the confirmed schedule before you go.
Pre-book the Castle
Always buy your castle tickets online weeks in advance. Not only does it occasionally save you a couple of pounds, but it crucially lets you skip the massive ticket queue on the day.
Picnic in the Park
Instead of paying £20 for a crowded pub lunch, head to the Waitrose on Peascod Street. Grab some fresh bread, cheese, and fruit, and have a scenic picnic on the grass of the Long Walk.
What You Need to Know Before Visiting Windsor:
Essential Rules and Local Reality
Castle Closures
It is incredibly important to know that the castle is currently completely closed to the public on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It can also shut with almost zero notice if the King needs it for a state event.
The Cobblestone Trap
The streets immediately surrounding the castle and the Guildhall are paved with severely uneven, historic cobblestones. Do not even think about wearing thin flats or high heels unless you want a twisted ankle.
The Heathrow Roar
The town sits directly under the main flight path for one of Europe’s busiest airports (Heathrow). Every 90 seconds, a massive jet will fly surprisingly low over your head. It is loud, so don't expect a perfectly silent countryside retreat.
Windsor Survival Guide:
Tips for Navigating the Town
Do Not Drive
If I'm honest, bringing a car into the town centre is a nightmare. The one-way roads are confusing, and central parking will cost you a small fortune. Just take the train.
Beware the Swans
The swans by the river look beautiful, but they are wild, massive birds that will happily steal food right out of your hand. Keep toddlers at a safe distance.
Book Afternoon Tea
If you want the classic British afternoon tea experience, you must book it weeks in advance. The good places sell out constantly, especially on summer weekends.
Wear Windproof Layers
The Long Walk is essentially a massive wind tunnel. Even if it feels warm near the shops, once you get out into the open park, the breeze will chill you to the bone.
Public Toilets
There are very few free public toilets. Use the facilities inside the shopping centre near the Central train station before you embark on the long trek down the park.
No Photos Inside
While you can snap away outside, photography is strictly forbidden inside the State Apartments and St George's Chapel. Security guards will tell you off very quickly.
Windsor Safety Basics:
Staying Safe in the Town
Pickpockets
River Safety
Narrow Pavements
How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Windsor:
Don't Get Tricked
Tacky Souvenirs
Some of the shops directly opposite the castle sell low-quality "royal" memorabilia at incredibly inflated prices. Walk down Peascod Street for much better, higher-quality gifts.
Central Parking Traps
If I'm honest, the car parks right next to the river or the station are effectively a legal trap. They can charge absurd hourly rates. Always use the Park and Ride slightly out of town.
The "Castle View" Pub
Any pub or restaurant that boasts a perfect, direct view of the castle gates will likely serve very average, overpriced food. Walk five minutes away into Eton for a genuinely good meal.
What Nobody Tells You About Windsor:
The Honest Truth
The Planes are Deafening
Guidebooks sell Windsor as a quiet, ancient retreat. They completely fail to mention that massive jet planes fly right over the castle every two minutes. It is surprisingly loud.
The Chapel Queue is Slow
Once you are finally inside the castle walls, you still have to queue again to get inside St George's Chapel. It shuffles along very slowly because everyone stops at the Queen's tomb.
It is Really Small
People assume the town is massive. It isn't. You can honestly walk from one side of the central shopping area to the river in about ten minutes flat.
WHERE TO GO NEXT:
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN ENGLAND
FAQs ABOUT WINDSOR:
Common Questions About the Town
