One day in Windsor: All you need to know
Approaching the entrance to Windsor Castle
If you live in London and are looking for a little slice of typical, classic England, Windsor should be top of your list, in terms of comfy day trips you can make. Go alone, with a date, a mate or the family. There’s something there for everybody. The historical home of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, now housing Charles and the fam (official title of the royal family), is a fascinating place to visit for a day. It’s small enough that you can get a good picture of the place in one visit, but big enough that you won’t find yourself getting bored, casting about for something to do. The Trek & Taste terrible twosome went recently for a mini getaway and it was so worth it!
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How to get to Windsor from London
Trains to Windsor
Getting the train from London to Windsor is incredibly simple. There is a direct line straight from London Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Riverside, with the train ride taking just under an hour. Sit back and watch as cramped terraced housing and skyscrapers give way to the rolling green hills of the countryside. When you step out of the station, you’ll be met with a view of Windsor Castle itself - you’re right in the centre! There’s a train every half an hour, so there’s no need to rush. If you miss one, another will be along soon.
Windsor Castle Parking
If getting the train isn’t your cup of tea, you may wish to travel to Windsor by car. Fortunately, there are several car parks in the town centre and surrounding areas. Many of them are reasonably priced and allow you to explore in the knowledge that, when the kids have had enough, a hasty exit isn’t too far away!
Paid parking in Windsor - central
There are a number of central parking areas within walking distance of the centre, but the best pick is the King Edward VII car park. It’s roughly a ten-minute walk from the town and the castle itself. A day’s parking will cost you around £11.
Find it on Google Maps here.
Free parking in Windsor - a little further out
On our trip, we parked at the Clewer Memorial Recreation Ground. It’s a little further out from the town than the paid parking spots, but the upside is that it’s free! You can walk from the park to the centre of town in a little under 30 minutes. If you’re looking to save a little cash on your trip, it’s a great option.
Find it on Google Maps here.
You can catch a glimpse of the castle from almost anywhere in town
Explore Windsor Castle
Obviously, the main attraction of the town is the castle itself! A colossal structure, built in the 11th Century, it is very impressive to behold. It was built by William the Conqueror after he took control of England and was used as part of London’s outer defensive set-up. It was one of a number of motte-and-bailey castles, built in a ring surrounding the city. Each of them was a day’s march from the city itself and from the next castle in the ring, so that it could be easily reinforced if it came under attack. Windsor Castle was of particular importance as it sat close to the River Thames, which was one of the main routes to London. It is the longest consistently-occupied castle in Europe and no wonder - it makes for a great visit!
One of the many gates of Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle Tickets
Tickets are available at the gate or from the Royal Collection Trust website and start from £30 for adults. We recommend booking ahead as it is slightly cheaper (just by a couple of £s, but every little helps) and you can check out what different events, performances and exhibitions are on while you’re there. You can book ahead by clicking here.
Shopping in Windsor
When you’ve had your fill of history, it’s time to get yourself a souvenir to take home. There are countless little independent sellers dotted around the town, where you can pick up a mug, a tea towel, or any other kind of branded memorabilia that you can imagine. Some of them even feature something other than King Charles’ face. If it’s not a souvenir you’re after, but a more general shopping experience, there’s the Windsor Royal Shopping Centre, with all the high street classics and some more local independent sellers too.
The Windsor Royal Shopping Centre
Where to eat in Windsor
You won’t be short on places to eat at when you take a trip to Windsor. Take a walk up the main high street and you’ll find cuisine from all corners of the earth - Mexican, Indian, Lebanese - the list goes on. Whatever you fancy, you can get.
If, however, you’re in the mood for something more traditional, just to the side of the entrance to the Castle itself, you’ll find Market Street - a charming cobbled street featuring Union Jack bunting and a collection of nice pubs and restaurants in the British tradition. The Carpenters Arms is a great choice if you’re after a pint and a quick bite. If you’re after a proper meal, The Queen Charlotte is literally just across the street, serving up delicious British food and some Continental classics too.
Market Street
Where to drink in Windsor
Windsor is home to a number of tap rooms and microbreweries, several of which are situated right by the river. Indie Rabble Brewing Company and Two Flints Brewery are right next to each other, with indoor seating and festival-style benches and food trucks out front in the Summer months. Both spots make fantastic beer and are the perfect place to relax and unwind with locally-produced drinks.
Boat tours in Windsor
One of the best things about Windsor is that the castle sits atop a central hill and you can see it from pretty much any spot in town. If, however, you’re looking for a slightly different view of the town, you might consider a boat trip! Being right on the river Thames, it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon. French Brothers are the sailors of choice if you’re looking to board a larger vessel, sit back and enjoy the view. Their website is available here. If you fancy yourself Admiral Nelson reborn and like to get a little more hands-on on the water, you can rent your own motorboat, which has space for 2 or 3, and cruise up and down at your leisure. All trips leave from Windsor Promenade on Barry Avenue and are a great way to spend an hour of your day!
A stroll along the River Thames is a great way to spend an hour, too!
Ready to get away for the day? We highly recommend a visit to the town of Windsor, packed with history, great food and things to do.
History buff? Foodie? Nature lover? Italy has something for you! Ever heard of the Marche region? It’s like Tuscany without the tourists. Come check it out!