Things To Do
in Windsor
Windsor is a historic market town on the River Thames, dominated by the imposing Windsor Castle that has long been a royal residence. The town blends royal heritage with riverside charm, leafy parks and a compact, pedestrian-friendly center. Visitors can explore grand state rooms, stroll along the Long Walk, and enjoy riverside pubs and cafés just a short distance from London.
With excellent rail links and a walkable center, Windsor makes for an ideal day trip or weekend getaway.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through Windsor's charming cobbled streets, taking in the historic architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the Windsor Royal Shopping for a delightful breakfast at one of the local cafes, where you can enjoy traditional English fare. As you meander towards the iconic St. George's Chapel, take a moment to marvel at its stunning Gothic design and intricate details.
After exploring the chapel, head over to Windsor Castle, one of the oldest and largest inhabited castles in the world. Spend the afternoon touring the State Apartments and the beautiful grounds, immersing yourself in the rich history of the British monarchy. Don’t forget to capture the panoramic views from the castle ramparts, which overlook the picturesque town.
As evening falls, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a traditional pub, savoring classic dishes like fish and chips or a hearty pie. After your meal, take a riverside walk along the Thames, where the gentle sounds of water create a serene atmosphere. End your day with a cozy drink at a local wine bar, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.
Start your morning with a visit to the beautiful Home Park, located adjacent to Windsor Castle, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among ancient trees and manicured lawns. The tranquility of the gardens is perfect for a reflective moment or a leisurely picnic breakfast. Don’t forget your camera as the park offers delightful views of the castle in the morning light.
In the afternoon, head to the stunning Savill Garden, renowned for its diverse plant collections and seasonal blooms. Explore the garden’s winding paths and enjoy the serene lakes, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the horticultural history and design of these beautiful landscapes.
As the sun sets, return to Windsor and treat yourself to dinner in one of the town's upscale restaurants, where you can indulge in contemporary British cuisine. After dining, take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully lit streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town during the evening. Cap off your night with a visit to the Theatre Royal for a performance, experiencing local talent in an intimate setting.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🎟️Cinema ticket | $10-12 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $7-9 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic royal heritage and a compact, walkable town
- Excellent rail links to London and the countryside
- Crowds around the castle can be heavy in peak season
- Some attractions have timed entries or seasonal closures
Places to Visit in Windsor
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic views of the castle framed by the Long Walk with wide open space and gravel paths—great for dramatic landscape shots.
Picturesque riverfront with the bridge, boats on the Thames and the college’s historic backdrop.
Calm reflections of the castle and town on the Thames as the light fades; ideal for golden-hour photos.
Food in Windsor
Windsor Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crisp battered fish with thick-cut chips, often served with mushy peas and tartare sauce.
Must-Try!
A classic joint of beef encased in pastry, a staple at traditional British dining venues.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, served with tea, a quintessential café treat in the region.
Roast meat with potatoes, vegetables and gravy, a popular weekend choice at pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturdays in the town center with seasonal produce, breads, cheeses and street-food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British culture values orderly queues. Wait your turn and don’t jump ahead.
A simple hello or good morning is appreciated; handshakes are common in formal settings, otherwise a polite nod or smile suffices.
Keep noise reasonable in public spaces, especially inside shops and cafés; public transport is typically quiet during travel hours.
Saying please and thank you goes a long way in interactions with locals and staff.
Safety
Tipping in Windsor
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, tipping is customary but not compulsory. A tip of 10-15% in restaurants is common if service is not included. Rounding up at pubs or cafes is also fine.
Cards (including contactless and mobile pay) are widely accepted. Cash is still useful for small purchases and some markets; many places show if a service charge is included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Blooming gardens, milder temperatures, and longer daylight; perfect for walking the parks and shooting floral displays at Savill Garden.
Warm days and lively riverside activity; expect crowds near the castle and along the River Thames. Great for outdoor dining and sunset photography.
Autumnal colors in Windsor Great Park; cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for peaceful walks and crisp-weather photography.
Short days and potential rain; festive lights around the town and castle, and cosy pubs provide warmth and atmosphere.
Windsor at Night
Hiking in Windsor
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic avenue leading to expansive views; a classic Windsor hike option mixing royal heritage with natural scenery.
Scenic loop around the lake with woodlands and interesting points of interest; relatively easy terrain.
Riverside walking route along the Thames offering pastoral views and gentle terrain for a relaxed day hike.
Airports
How to reach Windsor by plane.
Closest major international hub; easy rail and road access to Windsor, typically under an hour depending on connection.
A bit further away but serves many international and budget connections; reachable by train or road with transfer times longer than Heathrow.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families visit Windsor for the castle, parks, and river activities. The town offers kid-friendly dining and attractions around the castle precinct.
Proximity to London makes Windsor a popular day-trip destination for locals and international travelers alike.
People drawn to royal heritage, architecture and scenic views from the Long Walk and riverside paths.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Played notably in the Windsor Great Park area, with matches held at nearby polo clubs during the season.
Local clubs and community pitches are common in the surrounding area; support for national leagues is widespread.
Casual and club cricket is popular in parks and community grounds during summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Windsor.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in pubs and cafés. Look for veggie pies, mushroom dishes, salads and a la carte vegetarian mains. Most places can adapt dishes upon request.