The suburban town of Windsor lies 21 miles west of London.
Set immediately south of the River Thames, Windsor faces the smaller town of Eton on the opposite bank. The two settlements are connected by the Windsor Bridge, now used only by pedestrians and cyclists.
Windsor grew up in the 11th century when William the Conqueror ordered the construction of a new fortress to protect the western approaches to London. The settlement which grew up around Windsor Castle, was originally called 'New Windsor' to distinguish it from Old Windsor, which lies two miles south and predates it by 300 years.
Windsor expanded to encompass three Saxon villages: Clewer, Dedworth and Losfield. Clewer Village derives its name from the 'Cliff-Dwellers' who once lived below the hill on which Windsor Castle was built. The oldest village in the Royal Borough of Windsor, Clewer grew up at a fording-place on the River Thames. This was the only crossing place for several miles and became famous for traders, pilgrims and soldiers.
Further expansion took place after the arrival of the railways in the 1840 and later when Windsor Castle became the permanent residence of the Royal Family. The arrival of the Court brought about a considerable amount of building in Clewer for the courtiers.
As the location of Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the Royal Family, Windsor is a very popular tourist destination.
In late June visitors to Windsor can watch the royal family as they leave Windsor Castle for the Royal Meeting at Ascot Racecourse (stand in Long Lane and see the fleet of royal cars emerge at around 1.35 pm).
There are good road links and the town is also served by two separate railway lines.
Those who want to see Windsor in style can take a horse-drawn carriage. Visitors are collected from the High Street (opposite the Harte and Garder Hotel) and trips last either 30 minutes or an hour. The carriages operate from 12.30 pm - 5.30 pm according to demand.
The delightful Theatre Royal Windsor nestles in the shadow of Windsor Castle. One of the UK's leading theatres, it has gained a reputation the high quality of its productions.
Changing of the Guard Windsor Castle, Windsor SL4 1NJ
The Changing of the Guard, one of the highlights of Windsor, takes place throughout the year, depending on the weather. Changing of the Guard information
Royal Windsor Racecourse Maidenhead Road, Windsor SL4 5JJ
The Racecourse offers flat racing between April and October and jump racing during November and December. Royal Windsor Racecourse information
Windsor Castle, Windsor
The oldest continuously occupied royal residence, and one of Englands most popular tourist attractions. Events and exhibitions. Windsor Castle information
Valley Garden, Windsor
Considered by some to be the finest woodland gardens in world. Valley Garden information
The Royal Lodge and Cumberland Lodge Windsor Great Park, Windsor
The Royal Lodge dates from the 17th century, and is 3 miles south of Windsor Castle at the centre of Windsor Great Park. The Royal Lodge and Cumberland Lodge information
Frogmore House Home Park, Windsor
Frogmore House lies in the private grounds of the Home Park of Windsor Castle. Frogmore House information
Windsor Great Park The Great Park, Windsor SL4 2HT
Dating from the 13th century, the 4,800 acres of deer park and Crown Estate originally formed the hunting ground of Windsor Castle. Windsor Great Park information
The Savill Building Wick Lane, Englefield Green near, Windsor TW20 0UU
The unique visitor centre is the gateway to the Royal Landscape. Covering 1,000 acres of landscaped gardens, lakes and woodland. The Savill Building information
Virginia Water Lake, Windsor GU25 4QF
Originally just a small stream, this large lake was created in 1753 by William, Duke of Cumberland, a Ranger of the Windsor Great Park. Virginia Water Lake information
Legoland Winkfield Road, Windsor SL4 4AY
The famous theme park (built on the site of the former Windsor Safari Park) has amazing models created from over 45 million Lego bricks. Legoland information
![]() |
Thames Street Windsor SL4 1PX MAP This 17th-century house is between the banks of the River Thames and Windsor Castle. It is now a 4-star hotel and has free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, an award-winning restaurant and a spa. Rooms are individually decorated in a modern style. All rooms ... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
Beaumont Estate Windsor SL4 2JJ MAP Set in 40 acres of landscaped grounds, the historic Beaumont Estate features a leisure club. 6.5 miles from Heathrow Terminal 5, the hotel is situated in Old Windsor, just a 10-minute drive from Windsor Castle. The luxury, 4-star bedrooms each have a fla... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
Windsor Rd, Water Oakley Windsor SL4 5UR MAP This historic country house is in large gardens, looking out over the River Thames. It is now a 4-star hotel and has free parking, air-conditioned rooms, an award-winning restaurant and indoor pool. The Oakley Court Hotel is 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from Winds... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
452 Saint Leonards Road Windsor SL43DZ MAP Just 1 mile from Legoland, Windsor Guest House provides stylish rooms with flat-screen TVs, just 5 minutes’ drive from Royal Windsor Racecourse. Guests can enjoy full English breakfasts, and Heathrow Airport is 15 minutes’ drive away. Bright and eleg... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
89 Arthur Road Windsor SL4 1RU MAP Just a 5-minute walk from Windsor town centre and the historic Windsor Castle, this guest house has free Wi-Fi and offers continental breakfasts in your room. Rooms are traditional in style, with carpeted floors and central heating. Each has individual r... More Information and Book ... |
![]() |
169 Oxford Rd Windsor SL4 5DX MAP This small, family-run B&B with free Wi-Fi is very near to Windsor town centre and a short walk from the train stations and Windsor Castle. Dee&Steve's is a refurbished, non-smoking B&B a 20-minute drive from Heathrow Airport. All rooms have a TV and tea... More Information and Book ... |
Towns Near Windsor To Visit - straight line distance:
Eton Tourist Information (0.42 miles) Datchet Tourist Information (1.23 miles) Slough Tourist Information (2.00 miles) Old Windsor Tourist Information (2.03 miles)