Windsor is one of the most recognisable towns in England, known worldwide for Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and an official residence of the monarch. Sitting on the south bank of the River Thames in east Berkshire, this compact royal town blends centuries of history with a thriving tourist economy, independent shops, and excellent restaurants. Whether you are visiting for the day or considering it as a place to live, Windsor delivers a rare mix of heritage, charm, and modern convenience.

Things to Do in Windsor

The obvious starting point is Windsor Castle itself, but there is far more to the town than its most famous landmark. Windsor Great Park covers nearly 5,000 acres of parkland, gardens, and ancient woodland, offering walks, cycling, and the stunning Savill Garden. The Theatre Royal Windsor is one of the finest regional theatres in the country, while the River Thames provides boat trips, riverside walks, and a direct path across to Eton. The town centre is filled with cobbled streets, historic pubs, and specialist shops that reward a leisurely afternoon of exploration.

Read our full guide: 25 Things to Do in Windsor (2026 Guide)

Also explore: Hidden Gems in Windsor Great Park | Discovering the Savill Garden Through the Seasons

Where to Eat in Windsor

Windsor's restaurant scene ranges from upmarket dining rooms to relaxed riverside cafes. The streets around the castle are lined with options covering British, Italian, Indian, Thai, and more. For a special occasion, several venues in and around Windsor hold national awards and recognition. The nearby village of Bray, home to multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, puts world-class dining just minutes away.

Our food and drink guides for Windsor:

Afternoon Tea in Windsor

Few places in England are better suited to afternoon tea than Windsor. The town's royal connections and historic setting make it a natural destination for this quintessentially British tradition. From grand hotel lounges overlooking the castle to cosy tearooms tucked away on side streets, there are options to suit every taste and budget.

Best Afternoon Tea in Windsor for 2026

Where to Stay in Windsor

Windsor has accommodation ranging from luxury castle-view hotels to practical chain options near the motorway. The town centre has several boutique and historic hotels within walking distance of the castle and station, while the wider area includes country house hotels and riverside properties. Proximity to Heathrow Airport also makes Windsor a popular stopover for international travellers.

7 Best Hotels in Windsor for 2026

Legoland Windsor

Legoland Windsor Resort is one of the most popular family attractions in the UK, drawing over two million visitors a year. The theme park features over 55 rides and attractions spread across themed zones, with options for toddlers through to older children. It sits on the outskirts of Windsor and is well signposted from the M4 and M3 motorways.

Legoland Windsor Rides: Full 2026 Guide | Legoland Windsor: Tips for the Perfect Family Visit

Getting to Windsor

Windsor is served by two railway stations. Windsor and Eton Central connects to Slough, where passengers can change for the Elizabeth Line and Paddington services. Windsor and Eton Riverside provides a direct South Western Railway service to London Waterloo in around 55 minutes. By road, the M4 (junction 6) is just a few minutes away, and Heathrow Airport is roughly 20 minutes by car. The town also has good bus connections to Slough, Maidenhead, Bracknell, and Legoland.

Commuting to London from Berkshire | Local Transport Options Between Berkshire Towns

Living in Windsor

Windsor is one of the most desirable addresses in Berkshire, combining a historic town centre with strong schools, low crime, and easy access to London and Heathrow. Property prices reflect this, sitting well above the county average, though the town offers a quality of life that many residents feel justifies the premium. The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is generally well-run, and the surrounding area includes attractive villages such as Datchet, Old Windsor, and Clewer.

Moving to Berkshire: Town Comparison Guide | Guide to Berkshire's Rental Market

Explore nearby: Things to Do in Eton | Things to Do in Ascot

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