One of England’s most important and stately towns, elegant Windsor is best known for its extraordinary castle. Built in the 11th century after the Norman Conquest and still the preferred residence of the royal family, Windsor Castle is open to visitors throughout the year. Other major attractions in the area include the Grade I listed Windsor Guildhall (now home to the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum), the Grade II listed Windsor Royal Station, the Theatre Royal Windsor, Windsor Great Park, and LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, among many other highlights. Just across the river is Eton College—one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious schools.
Numerous day trip itineraries from London to Windsor are offered. Given Windsor’s proximity to the capital, it’s also possible to plan an independent excursion.
Roughly 80 trains travel daily between London Paddington and Windsor, while National Express buses offer another transit option. Alternatively, if you plan to drive, it’s roughly an hour-long trip along the M4.
Windsor is a thriving destination throughout the year, and hosts special festivals and events in every season. Windsor Castle is open daily. Between March and October it’s open from 10am–5:15pm; between November and February it’s open from 10am–4:15pm. Last entry is 75 minutes prior to closing time.
Windsor hosts numerous major events throughout the year. The Royal Windsor Horse Show is held at Windsor Castle each May, the Windsor Festival is held in September, and the Windsor Fringe Festival is on in September and October. The Reading Festival, a music festival held every August, is also a highlight of the area.