Things To Do
in Winkfield
Winkfield is a semi-rural parish in Berkshire, England, lying just north-east of Ascot and within easy reach of Windsor and London. The area blends quiet village charm, historic churches and lanes with access to large green spaces like Windsor Great Park and Swinley Forest. Visitors appreciate the proximity to Ascot Racecourse, elegant country pubs and gardens, while enjoying short journeys to major attractions such as Windsor Castle.
Winkfield suits travelers looking for countryside walks, equestrian culture and a calm base for exploring the Thames Valley and Surrey Hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in the stunning Windsor Great Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and picturesque views. As the sun rises, explore the famous Long Walk, leading you straight to Windsor Castle. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility before the park fills with visitors.
In the afternoon, indulge in a leisurely picnic on the grounds, surrounded by the natural beauty of the park. After lunch, visit the Savill Garden, known for its beautifully landscaped gardens and seasonal blooms. Wander through the various themed gardens, each offering unique flora and delightful scenery.
As dusk falls, head to a nearby pub for a traditional British dinner, savoring local dishes and perhaps a pint of ale. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and engage with friendly locals, sharing stories about your day. Conclude your evening with a relaxed stroll back to your accommodation, taking in the peacefulness of the park as the stars begin to twinkle.
Begin your exploration of Windsor Castle, one of the oldest and largest inhabited castles in the world, with an early morning tour. Marvel at the stunning architecture and rich history as you walk through the State Apartments, filled with priceless art and royal treasures. Don't miss St. George's Chapel, the burial site of many British monarchs, where you can feel the weight of history.
After your castle visit, stroll through the charming streets of Windsor, stopping by quaint shops and cafes for lunch. Sample local delicacies at one of the many eateries, and take time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this historic town. Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby Eton, home to the prestigious Eton College, where you can wander the picturesque streets and admire the stunning college buildings.
For dinner, choose a restaurant overlooking the River Thames, where you can enjoy a meal while watching the boats glide by. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the serene ambiance as the sun sets. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a local bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍺Pint of beer (pub) | $5-7 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (local) | $8-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to Windsor, Ascot and London while retaining peaceful countryside charm
- Excellent green spaces for walking, biking and outdoor recreation
- Low-key village atmosphere with quality pubs and local produce
- Limited nightlife and fewer dining options within the village itself
- Public transport can be sparse off-peak, making a car useful
- Some attractions and services close early, especially outside tourist season
Places to Visit in Winkfield
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping avenue framed by trees leading to Windsor Castle; dramatic in early morning light and autumn colours.
Picturesque lake with a classical-style grotto and waterfalls; popular for reflective watershots and woodland scenes.
Capture the atmosphere on race days or photograph the architecture and landscaped grounds on quieter days.
Dense pine woods and bridleways ideal for moody woodland photography, mountain bike action shots and misty mornings.
Cottages, hedgerows and village greens around Winkfield offer classic English rural compositions and seasonal motifs.
Food in Winkfield
Winkfield Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A roast joint (beef, lamb or chicken) with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and seasonal vegetables — widely available at local pubs in Winkfield and Ascot on Sundays.
Must-Try!
Classic battered fish with chips from nearby towns; look for versions using sustainably sourced fish at independent chippies in Windsor or Bracknell.
In autumn and winter many pubs and restaurants feature game (venison, pheasant) sourced from local estates — ask menus in country pubs around Winkfield.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A short drive away, this market has stalls selling local cheese, meats, baked goods and seasonal produce — ideal for picnic supplies or tasting local specialties.
Occasional markets and festival food stalls appear near Ascot and race days often bring diverse street food options, from burgers to artisanal desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite, use ‘please’ and ‘thank you’, and queue patiently for services — lining up in an orderly way is valued.
Much countryside is private — stick to public footpaths and follow signs, closing gates behind you and leaving no trace.
When visiting churches or village events, dress modestly and keep noise low; local communities appreciate considerate behaviour.
Safety
Tipping in Winkfield
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but modest: 10–15% in restaurants if service isn’t included, rounding up fares for taxi drivers and a few pounds for pub food if bringing plates to the bar. For concierge or exceptional service, small gratuities are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cards (chip-and-pin and contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still used in small shops and markets. Mobile payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are increasingly common. Notify your bank if travelling from abroad to avoid card blocks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming gardens and bluebells in woodland; bring a light jacket and expect changeable showers. Great time for gardening displays and fewer crowds at parks.
Warmest and busiest season with long daylight hours; ideal for outdoor walks and events but expect higher local traffic and race-day crowds. Pack sun protection and lightweight layers for cooler evenings.
Crisp air and beautiful fall colours in Windsor Great Park and surrounding woods; a favorite for photographers. Weather can turn quickly — bring waterproofs and sturdy footwear.
Cold and occasionally frosty with shorter days; some attractions operate reduced hours but winter landscapes and lower visitor numbers offer a peaceful experience. Prepare for rain and possible snow with warm clothing.
Winkfield at Night
Hiking in Winkfield
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive waymarked routes through pine forest with mountain bike trails, bridleways and short walking loops suitable for families and experienced hikers alike.
Large parkland offering varied walks from lakeside paths at Virginia Water to the Long Walk toward Windsor Castle; good for half-day hikes and photography.
Walk portions of the Thames Path for riverside scenery, charming pubs and links to Windsor town and surrounding villages.
Open heathland and mixed woodland provide easy walks and birdwatching opportunities close to Winkfield and Ascot.
West of Winkfield, Black Park features diverse trails, a lake and play areas — popular for family walks and fitness running routes.
Airports
How to reach Winkfield by plane.
Approximately 10–20 miles east of Winkfield, Heathrow is the nearest major international airport with fast road links and taxi services; journey time varies with traffic (20–40 minutes).
About 45–55 miles south-east by road; reachable by car or train via London, taking around 1–1.5 hours depending on route and connections.
Further away and best reached via central London by public transport; convenient for some business routes but not as practical for Winkfield access.
Around an hour’s drive west-southwest; useful for some regional flights and lower-cost carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Winkfield has many families attracted by good schools, green space and a village lifestyle.
Professionals commuting to London, Reading or local business hubs make up a notable portion of residents due to regional rail and road links.
A proportion of older residents choose the area for its tranquillity, amenities and proximity to healthcare.
Horse owners, trainers and riding enthusiasts are prominent due to nearby stables and Ascot’s racing scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ascot Racecourse nearby makes horse racing a signature sport and social event, especially during Royal Ascot and other race meetings.
Local amateur and youth football is popular with community clubs and pitches used across the parish.
Village cricket clubs play in the summer months on local greens and community grounds.
Swinley Forest and nearby country lanes attract road cyclists and mountain bikers for both leisure and competitive riding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Winkfield.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and restaurants now offer vegetarian mains and good salads; inform staff and you’ll usually find at least one substantial plant-based option.
Vegan choices are increasingly common in larger nearby towns (Windsor, Bracknell); smaller village pubs may have limited options so call ahead or check menus online.
Many establishments can accommodate gluten-free diets but cross-contamination remains possible in traditional kitchens; request gluten-free options when booking.