Be inspired in Royal Windsor
You won't be short on inspiration during a visit to Royal Windsor. From historic buildings and museums, to scenic walks and fabulous parks, this lively, bustling town has something for everyone. Whether you come for a day or stay for a long weekend, you certainly won't be bored.
Start your day in one of Windsor's many coffee shops where you can find a comfy spot and ponder your options - perhaps a visit to Windsor castle, Eton College or Savill Gardens; visit the Theatre, take a boat trip on the Thames or a horse and carriage ride around the sights. How about a trampoline bungy-jump in Alexandra Gardens, a bicycle ride or a mooch round the shops.
Windsor highlights
In 1666 Samuel Pepys called Windsor Castle "the most romantique castle that is in the world", and the same holds true today. Said to be the Queen's favourite official residence, it is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the oldest in continuous occupation (over 900 years). The castle covers an area of 5 hectares (13 acres) and contains magnificent State Apartments furnished with treasures from the Royal Collection, St George's Chapel (the burial place of 10 monarchs) and the changing of the guard. For the children there's Queen Mary's Dolls House and activity sheets to complete during the visit. For opening times and ticket information visit the Royal Windsor website.
The Royal Windsor Wheel
The Windsor Wheel will be returning to Alexandra Gardens for Easter, allowing visitors the chance to enjoy spectacular panoramic views. Soar 50 metres into the sky above Windsor, with breathtaking views over the Castle battlements, the River Thames and the stunning countryside beyond. On a clear day you can even see as far as the gleaming arch of Wembley Stadium and the glittering skyline of Central London.
Sightseeing Bus Tour
A sightseeing Bus Tour is the easiest way to get a fun and interesting overview of Windsor and Eton. The circular tour route, which starts outside the Castle, by Queen Victoria's Statue, lasts for 45 minutes. Tickets are valid for 24 hours, allowing you to hop on and off the bus at any one of the 11 stops along the route. Purchase tickets from City Sightseeing online or from the bus driver.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
If you prefer a more traditional experience, why not take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage departing from outside the Castle walls. Enjoy a 30-minute ride through Windsor and down the Long Walk to Home Park or opt for the 1-hour tour continuing on to Great Park, via the deer park. The carriages seat 4 or 8 people and are open or closed top depending on the season. Visit the Orchard Poyle website for more information.
Cruising the River Thames
A trip to Windsor wouldn't be complete without taking in the River Thames, and what better way than with a relaxing cruise. French Brothers run 40 minutes and 2 hour public trips from Windsor, with views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House and Windsor Racecourse. Visit the French Brothers website for more information.
Shopping and eating
Windsor is a shopper's paradise, where high street names, designer labels and antique shops sit alongside quaint, specialist and souvenir shops. There are roughly 150 shops in Windsor spread throughout the main High Street, King Edward Court, St Leonards Road, Peascod Street and Windsor Royal Shopping, set amidst the elegantly refurbished, grade II listed Victorian railway station. For those interested in collecting and antiques, head to Thames Street and Eton High Street.
When you're all shopped out, there are loads of fabulous coffee shops and eating places (from budget to fancy) to quench your thirst and gather some energy for the next round of must-have purchases. Visit Royal Windsor Shopping for an array of continental style restaurants, bars and cafes. It is the perfect place to sip a cappuccino and watch the world go by. Or visit Sir Christopher Wren's House overlooking the Thames at Eton Bridge and enjoy fine dining at Strok's Restaurant.
For more ideas on what to do in Windsor visit our events or towns pages. Or visit the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead website.