Home to a world-famous castle and the public school that helped to produce 20 of the UK’s prime ministers, Windsor’s reputation precedes itself. The charming town hosts picturesque streets lined with interesting shops and a pretty riverside that is sprinkled with waterfront eateries.
With London under an hour’s train journey away and scenic green spaces such as Windsor Great Park nearby, this is the best of both worlds.
Where to stay in Windsor
Heading to Windsor will give you a choice of campsites with plenty of beautiful scenery to take in, particularly useful if you want to choose a campsite for a river walk.
Hurley Riverside Park is an idyllic and dog friendly caravan park that is tucked away on the banks of the River Thames, just a 20-minute drive from the centre of Windsor.
Another option is Scotlands House Campsite, a beautifully scenic touring park set in the Berkshire countryside that provides spacious, green pitches with hook-up. Note that there are no toilets or showers at this site.
What to do on a tour to Windsor – Day 1
10am – Royal residence
Where better to start than the jewel in the crown – Windsor Castle? This renowned royal residence is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, home to historic collections, artworks and much more. Stroll through the hallowed halls and you can soak up 1000 years of history before taking a wander through the elegant castle grounds.
Join a guided tour or explore solo – just make sure not to miss the Changing of the Guard on Thursdays and Saturdays!
12pm – Lunch break
Just around the corner from the castle is The Crooked House of Windsor, where you can grab a bite to eat. The aptly named café is housed in a charmingly wonky 16th-century townhouse and serves snacks, brunch and lunch, coffee and cakes.
1.30pm – Scenic trail
Now you’ve fuelled up, it’s time to visit the Long Walk. True to its name, this arrow-straight path stretches 2.5 miles from the castle. Lined with ancient woodland and manicured lawns, the scenic trail can be tackled in various ways, including an out-and-back walk (2.5 miles each way) to the statue of King George and his horse. This is the path’s highest point, so as a bonus, you’ll get a fantastic view of the castle and the town.
3.30pm – Stroll by the river
If you have the energy, it’s about an hour’s walk back to town, or you can catch the 01 bus into Windsor from Peewit Gate, which is a 10-minute walk from the monument.
Head to Alexandra Gardens, a pretty Edwardian waterside park with riverfront walks and a charming little café. It’s well worth taking a stroll in the park to Baths Island, once home to 19th-century swimming baths.
6pm – Time to dine
A 10-minute wander back into town will bring you to Patch on the Plaza. Relax on the heated, fairy-lit terrace and enjoy small plates and vibrant cocktails.
What to do on Day 2
9.30am – Exploring Eton
No visit to Windsor would be complete without seeing Eton. The riverside town boasts a chocolate-box high street lined with shops and cafés, while the world-famous college can be spotted in the distance.
Eton Walkway, a two-mile circular route beginning at Windsor Bridge, is a great way to discover the town. Bronze trail markers identify 18 points of interest, including The King’s Stables and Eton Boat House.
11am – Coffee time
Head back to the high street and pop into Anytime Coffee for elevenses. The charming café serves light bites, coffee, pastries, scones and a tempting selection of homemade cakes.
1pm – Take to the water
Walk back over Windsor Bridge and head for Theatre Royal on Thames Street. Opposite is the Duck Stop, where you can join the Windsor Duck Tour. Hop on board the yellow amphibious bus and begin your one-hour trip by road, before taking to the river for a guided tour of Windsor from the water.
2.30pm – Pizza and pasta
A five-minute walk brings you to Sebastian’s Italian. Choose from wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta and traditional desserts.
4pm – Glorious gardens
Just south of the town is the enchanting Windsor Great Park. With over 1000 years of history, the park hosts ancient forests, serene lakes and fine gardens, as well as a working farm and a vineyard. Don’t miss The Savill Garden and Virginia Water.
6.30pm – Waterfront dining
There are lovely local pubs nearby for dinner, including The Bailiwick and The Barley Mow, but if you’d prefer to head to Windsor, try The Boatman. This waterfront hostelry offers traditional food with a twist.
Where to park in Windsor
River St Car Park
Windsor SL4 1QT
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Alexandra Gardens Car Park
Windsor SL4 3HY
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If you’re after more inspiration for where to visit on your next trip, you could consider 48 hours in the Norfolk Broads, an area which is Britain’s largest protected wetland. For somewhere different, how about heading to Northern Ireland and spending 48 hours in Ballycastle? The pretty coastal town is perfectly situated for exploring mysterious sites and beautiful scenery.
Lead image: The Royal Borough
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