1. Windsor Great Park
For beautiful scenery and facilities to stay comfortable, head to Windsor Great Park. The park is home to over 4,800 acres of ancient forests, parkland, and walking trails, so there’s a route you can take no matter who’s visiting.
The history of Windsor Great Park
Windsor Great Park has witnessed its share of events throughout history, making it more than just a beautiful landscape. The areas which make up the park were defined in the 13th century, but the land dates back to pre-Saxon times. Head inside, and you’ll find royal residences, formal gardens, and centuries-old trees, some of which were planted during the reign of William the Conqueror.
Royal highlights include William I using the parkland as his hunting grounds, Queen Victoria entertaining guests on the shores of Virginia Water, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s stewardship today.
What to see at Great Windsor Park
There are many areas to explore when you pay Great Windsor Park a visit. Main points of interest include:
• The Savill Garden – 35 acres of connected gardens and woodland, home to many plants and wildlife species, gentle walkways, and a beautiful café and gift shop
• Virginia Water – the vast lake at Virginia Water offers a range of activities and centuries-old history, including ancient monuments and the ornamental Cascade waterfall
• The Valley Gardens – on the northern shores of Virginia Water, these 250 acres of rolling valleys are adorned with plants and flowers from around the world
• The Long Walk and Deer Park – the iconic image of Great Windsor Park, the Long Walk was laid by King Charles II, with Windsor Castle at one end and an impressive equestrian statue at the other. Meanwhile, around 500 Red Deer roam freely around the enclosure
Visiting Great Windsor Park
There are many things to do at Great Windsor Park, from fishing and horse riding to running and cycling. Still, walking remains the most popular, with plenty of routes to choose from. Whether you spend an hour strolling through the gardens or head out further for a full day’s adventure, you’re sure to find peace in this beautiful Berkshire park.
2. Thames Path
What better way to spend an afternoon than strolling along the banks of the River Thames? When you visit Windsor, you can do just that. Join the Thames Path in the town centre, just north of the train station, and enjoy a scenic walk along the water.
You might like to take the route east, towards Eton and Datchet, for beautiful leafy surroundings and gardens to explore. Or head west towards Dorney Lake - another serene spot for walking - and eventually, make it to Maidenhead.
The Thames Path offers plenty of leisurely strolls, and there’s no obligation to walk a great distance. Why not hop onto the path, walk for 15 minutes, then head back into town. You can find lots of appealing cafés overlooking the water, so stop for refreshments and enjoy the fresh air without strain.
3. Windsor Heritage Walking Trail
If you’re interested in Windsor’s long-spanning history, a walk around the town centre might be tempting. There are many monuments to visit, and thanks to Windsor’s small size, walking from site to site is very accessible.
Start at Edwardian Alexandra Gardens, being sure to take in the 1902 military bandstand. Walk to the Queen Victoria statue, which stands outside Windsor Castle’s walls, then head along cobbled Market and Church Streets for a spot of window shopping. For light refreshment, step inside the Crooked House of Windsor, a charming 16th-century tea room serving food throughout the day.
After lunch, continue your historical walk into Windsor Castle. The iconic royal residence boasts almost a millennium of history. It’s the oldest and largest occupied castle globally and absolutely worth visiting during your time in the town.
Visiting Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle was founded by Wiliam the Conqueror in the 13th century and has been 39 English monarchs’ home since. It’s a particular favourite of Queen Elizabeth II, who spends many of her personal days there.
Expect to see many of the castle’s most beautiful rooms when you visit, with tour highlights including the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel. This stunning example of Gothic architecture is within Windsor Castle’s grounds and was the picturesque location of Prince Harry and Megan Markle’s wedding ceremony.
Elevate your time in Windsor
Enjoy a perfect stay in Windsor when you choose our MGallery Castle Hotel to host your visit. Our luxury, boutique hotel offers exquisite bedrooms and facilities to make you feel at home from the moment you arrive. Choose a contemporary room with a view over Windsor or Windsor Castle itself, and immerse yourself in the charm of the town.
From your convenient location in the heart of Windsor, you can enjoy the very best of what the town has to offer. Whether you take some local strolls or head out a little further for a scenic hike, return to peace and serenity when you choose the MGallery Windsor for your host.
