WINDSOR & ETON
Windsor and Eton embody regal history and quintessentially English charm, with a majestic castle and an iconic school defining the Thames-side landscape.
This royal borough blends centuries of monarchy with a thriving modern community, offering historic grandeur alongside beautiful river scenery and parkland.
Most Popular Attractions
Royal & Historic Core:
Windsor Castle: The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and one of the official residences of the British monarch.
St. George’s Chapel: A stunning example of Gothic architecture within Windsor Castle and the burial place of 11 monarchs.
The State Apartments: The ceremonial rooms within Windsor Castle, famous for their magnificent art collection and opulent décor.
Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: An incredible miniature home within Windsor Castle, built for Queen Mary in the 1920s.
Changing of the Guard: The famous traditional ceremony that takes place within the castle grounds.
Eton College: The world-famous, historic boarding school for boys, founded in 1440 by King Henry VI.
Eton College Chapel: A beautiful late-Gothic chapel, part of the college, with historic significance and stunning stained glass.
Guildhall: A historic town hall in Windsor, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, that still hosts royal functions.
Parks, Gardens & Outdoor Spaces:
The Long Walk: A spectacular 3-mile, tree-lined avenue that runs from Windsor Castle’s George IV Gate to the Copper Horse statue.
Home Park: The private royal parkland surrounding Windsor Castle, which is open to the public on certain paths.
Windsor Great Park: A massive deer park and former royal hunting forest, featuring lakes, gardens, and the Savill Garden.
The Savill Garden: A globally renowned, ornamental garden within Windsor Great Park, featuring seasonal displays.
The Copper Horse: An equestrian statue of King George III situated at the end of the Long Walk, offering stunning views.
Jubilee Fountain & Garden: A modern public space and fountain located near the shopping precinct in Windsor.
Black Park Country Park: A large, protected area of woodland and heathland on the border of the borough, popular for walking and filming.
Modern Attractions & Leisure:
Legoland Windsor Resort: A popular theme park featuring Lego-themed rides, models, and attractions, aimed at families.
River Thames Boat Trips: Various guided and self-hire boat services offering scenic tours of the Thames between Windsor and Runnymede.
Windsor Bridge: A historic pedestrian-only bridge connecting Windsor and Eton, offering great photo opportunities.
Theatre Royal Windsor: A historic Victorian theatre offering a wide range of productions, including pre-West End runs.
Windsor & Eton Brewery: A local craft brewery offering tours and tastings of their award-winning beers.
The Old Court: An arts centre and cinema housed in Windsor’s former magistrates court.
Dorney Court: A magnificent Tudor manor house, used as a filming location, that is open to the public on selected days.
Nearby Historic Sites:
Runnymede: The historic meadow where King John is believed to have sealed the Magna Carta in 1215.
Magna Carta Memorial: A monument at Runnymede commemorating the sealing of the Magna Carta.
Air Forces Memorial (Runnymede): A striking memorial commemorating the Commonwealth airmen and women who died in World War II with no known grave.
Activities & Experiences
Explore Windsor Castle: Tour the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle, including the State Apartments and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
Witness the Changing of the Guard: Watch the iconic military ceremony as the new guard takes over duty at Windsor Castle (check local schedules, often Tue, Thu, Sat).
Stroll The Long Walk: Take a magnificent 3-mile (4.3 km) tree-lined avenue walk from Windsor Castle’s George IV Gateway to the Copper Horse statue on Snow Hill.
Visit St George’s Chapel: Marvel at the stunning Perpendicular Gothic architecture inside the castle grounds, the burial place of many monarchs, including Henry VIII and Elizabeth II.
Walk the Eton Walkway: Follow the 2-mile circular trail that links 18 historic points of interest in Eton, offering a guided view of the town’s heritage.
Enjoy the River Thames: Take a scenic boat trip with French Brothers from Windsor to see the castle and surrounding areas from the water, or hire a canoe/kayak.
Discover Eton College: Stroll along Eton High Street and admire the exterior of this historic and prestigious school, taking a guided tour during the summer months when available.
Have Family Fun at LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort: Spend a day at the theme park with over 55 rides, live shows, and LEGO models, primarily aimed at children aged 3-12.
Tour the Windsor & Eton Brewery: Sample locally brewed, award-winning beers, take a brewery tour, and learn about the local craft beer scene.
Discover Windsor Great Park: Explore the vast parkland, which includes The Savill Garden (fee applies) and Virginia Water, perfect for cycling, walking, and deer spotting.
Find the UK’s Shortest Street: Locate the small plaque marking Queen Charlotte Street, officially the shortest street in Great Britain, tucked next to the Crooked House.
Take a ‘Duck Tour’: Experience a unique 1-hour live guided tour of the town and the River Thames in a bright yellow amphibious vehicle.
Local Tips & Transport
Two Train Stations: Windsor is served by two stations, both centrally located: Windsor & Eton Central (via a change at Slough from London Paddington/Elizabeth Line) and Windsor & Eton Riverside (direct line from London Waterloo).
Walking is Easiest: The town centres of Windsor and Eton are small and best explored on foot. They are connected by a pedestrian-only bridge over the River Thames. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the Castle to Eton College.
Driving is Difficult: Windsor Bridge is pedestrian-only. To drive between Windsor and Eton, you must use the bypass bridge further away, making it much quicker to walk. Parking can also be costly.
Buses and Shuttles: A local bus network operates in the area, and a dedicated shuttle bus connects Windsor town centre to LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort.
From Heathrow Airport (LHR): The most convenient airport, with a drive time of around 15-30 minutes. Direct bus services (e.g., First bus routes) run from Terminal 5 to Windsor.
Pre-Book Castle Tickets: To save time and potentially money, always pre-book your tickets for Windsor Castle and other major attractions online to skip long queues.
Castle Security: As an operational royal residence, security is tight. Be prepared for airport-style security checks and check the castle website for any sudden closures or changes to the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Eton College Access: The school is not generally open for unguided public visits. Your best chance to see inside the historic buildings, such as the College Hall and Chapel, is by booking a guided tour in advance, usually only available during the summer months.
The Crooked House: Don’t miss the picturesque, unusually sloped building on the high street, often called the Crooked House of Windsor. It’s a great photo opportunity and sometimes houses a bar or tearoom.
Dining at Pubs: Embrace the traditional British pub experience. Places like The Two Brewers (near the Castle) and The Boatman (riverside pub) offer a charming atmosphere and traditional British “pub grub.”
Hidden Gems:
- Windsor Guildhall: Look closely at this historic building, which hosts the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum, and see where Prince Charles and Camilla, and Elton John and David Furnish, had their civil ceremonies.
- Windsor Royal Station: A Victorian-era railway station converted into a unique shopping and dining area with boutiques, a cinema, and the beautiful original Royal Waiting Room.
- Eton’s High Street: Full of independent boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries, offering a different shopping experience than Windsor’s more high-street-focused centre.
Top Restaurants
The Waterman’s Arms, Brocas Street [] – An historic pub in Eton, dating back to 1542, popular with students and locals, known for its hearty pub food including various types of fish and chips, and meat pies like beef and Guinness.
Alma Tavern [] – A favorite with locals for its cozy atmosphere and no-nonsense, traditional British pub grub like fish and chips and bangers and mash. Their Sunday roast is particularly well-regarded.
The Queen Charlotte [] – A pub in the shadow of the castle, offering Mediterranean-leaning sharing boards, tapas favourites, and pub classics, maintaining a focus on local brews.
The George (Eton) [] – Located across the river in Eton, this pub is a tap house for the Windsor & Eton Brewery, serving hearty pub classics that pair well with their local ales, like the toffee-tasting Golden Ale.
The Duchess Of Cambridge Pub [] – A traditional, cozy English tavern serving authentic pub fare like fish and chips and bangers and mash, with a superb all-day menu, and a legendary Sunday Roast.
The Boatman [] – Windsor’s only riverside pub, offering classic British food with a seasonal, modern twist and scenic views of the Thames, a popular spot for its beer-battered fish and chips.
The Hind’s Head (Bray) [] – A historic pub with a modern twist, run by Heston Blumenthal, offering traditional British cuisine in an elegant pub setting. Worth the short drive from Windsor.
The Greene Oak [] – A Modern Cuisine pub slightly outside the town center, listed in the Michelin Guide, known for using the best of the British larder, with a specialty in 45-day aged rare breed steaks.
Plate at No. 6 [] – An intimate, independently-owned tapas restaurant in Windsor, offering Mediterranean dishes in an open kitchen setting, perfect for a modern, relaxed meal.
Gilbey’s Bar & Restaurant [] – Offering an eclectic menu of delightful modern European flavours in a warm atmosphere, this spot is also a wine bar perfect for casual drinks before dinner.
La Bartola [] – While it sounds Spanish, look for local spots offering a modern take on British cuisine with inventive dishes.
Patch on the Plaza [] – A family-run spot with a Mediterranean feel, known for its fairy-lit garden and a regularly changing menu crafted with locally sourced, in-season ingredients (e.g., beetroot hummus, poached salmon).
Windsor Broil [] – A sophisticated British steakhouse serving succulent cuts of 28-day aged Surrey Farm beef, and an array of appealing specials like slow-cooked pork cheeks and Scottish scallops.
Ivantxu Espacio Bistronómico [] – Look for local bistros with a modern approach to classic British cuisine, using high-quality ingredients with a playful twist.
The Loch & The Tyne (Old Windsor) [] – A Bib Gourmand (good value) Michelin Guide-listed country inn by chef Adam Handling, offering re-worked pub classics like haggis Scotch egg and seasonal trifle, with ingredients from their raised beds.
The Loch & The Tyne [$70-$120] – Chef Adam Handling’s acclaimed destination gastropub in Old Windsor, offering sophisticated, grown-up food with a focus on sustainable and local British ingredients.
Windsor Grill [$50-$80] – A sophisticated British steakhouse in Windsor known for its high-quality, 28-day aged Surrey Farm beef steak and other succulent cuts.
The Brasserie at Sir Christopher Wren [$40-$70] – Situated on the riverbank, this elegant restaurant offers modern British cuisine with a contemporary twist and views of the Thames.
The Oakley Court Hotel Dining [$60-$90] – Located a short drive from Windsor on the Thames, this hotel offers a fine dining experience with a seasonal, modern British menu in a grand setting.
The Calcot Hotel and Restaurant [$50-$80] – A highly-regarded spot slightly outside of the main town area, offering an excellent Modern European menu in a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
Coworth Park Restaurant [$80-$130] – Located in Ascot, this high-end restaurant near Windsor offers exquisite, modern British dining with a focus on exceptional service and presentation in a beautiful, luxury hotel setting.
Monkey Island Brasserie & Bar [$50-$90] – Located on a picturesque island in Bray, a short drive from Windsor, offering a refined, modern European menu in a tranquil and exclusive setting.
A La Russe [$40-$70] – A restaurant with a French-inspired cuisine and an emphasis on sophisticated dining near the Long Walk area of Windsor.
The Fat Duck (Bray) [$250+] – Although slightly outside of Windsor (in Bray), this Heston Blumenthal restaurant is a world-renowned, three-Michelin-starred culinary institution offering an experimental, multi-sensory tasting menu.
The Waterside Inn (Bray) [$200+] – Also in Bray, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the world’s finest French restaurants, offering an exceptional, classic dining experience on the river.
Plate at No. 6 [$25-$45] – An intimate, independently-owned tapas restaurant tucked down a cobbled lane, serving Mediterranean-inspired tapas and dishes in a contemporary setting.
Meimo Restaurant [$20-$40] – A popular Moroccan and Mediterranean restaurant on Peascod Street, offering flavourful tagines and Middle Eastern dishes in an atmospheric setting with outdoor seating.
Mango Lounge – Eton [$30-$50] – Bringing a new-wave Indian experience to Eton, this restaurant offers smart, contemporary Indian cuisine in a chic setting.
Cattle Grid [$25-$45] – A popular spot in the town center specializing in quality steaks and a carnivore-friendly menu, focusing on cuts from local suppliers.
Sebastian’s [$20-$40] – A family-run Italian restaurant with a cosy, authentic vibe, known for its traditional Italian comfort food and welcoming atmosphere.
The Real Greek – Windsor [$15-$30] – Offering authentic Hellenic recipes with a vibrant atmosphere, this is a popular spot for affordable Greek mezze near the castle.
Thai Square Windsor [$20-$40] – An upscale Thai restaurant near the river, known for its exotic and enticing classic Thai dishes.
Antalya Restaurant Windsor [$20-$40] – An elegant Turkish-Mediterranean venue serving authentic Eastern flavors, great for sharing platters and larger groups.
La Dolce Bolla (Marlow) [$20-$35] – A short drive away in Marlow, this stylish Italian wine bar and shop offers Italian small plates and wines in a chic setting.
Bluegrass BBQ [$20-$35] – A popular spot for fans of Southern American comfort food and BBQ, offering an authentic experience with smoked meats and classic sides.
The Flaming Cow [$15-$30] – Known for its authentic American food, specifically gourmet burgers and steaks, offering a casual and satisfying dining experience.
Cinnamon Cafe [$10-$20] – A locally-owned, family-run cafe inside Windsor Royal Station, a popular lunch haunt for basic, well-prepared daytime food like jacket potatoes and sandwiches.
Crêperie Doux Sourire [$10-$20] – Focused on fresh and natural ingredients, this creperie offers a selection of sweet and savoury crepes for a light, unique meal or snack.
Millar’s Eatery [$10-$25] – Located on St Leonards Road, this family-run eatery is popular for its excellent coffee, all-day brunch menu, and focus on vegan and milk alternatives.
Patch on the Plaza [$20-$35] – A family-run spot with a Mediterranean feel, serving fresh, regularly changing dishes crafted using locally sourced ingredients in a fairy-lit outdoor setting.
Franco Manca Windsor [$10-$25] – A popular pizzeria known for its sourdough base and affordable, simple, and delicious Neapolitan-style pizzas.
Cattle Grid [$25-$45] – The Eton location of the steakhouse chain, popular for its carnivorous menu and high-quality cuts of meat.
Giggling Squid [$20-$40] – Offering a selection of vibrant and exciting Thai food, known for its plentiful dishes and stylish, modern setting.
The Eton Mess [$15-$30] – A relaxed spot in Eton, named after the famous dessert, offering informal dining and a range of British dishes and comfort food.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Incognito Royal Windsor: A secret, sophisticated cocktail bar located in Windsor’s town centre, known for its Prohibition-era speakeasy feel and theatrical, inventive cocktails. You ring a bell to gain entrance.
The Cobbles: Found nestled in Windsor’s quaint, cobbled Guildhall Island, this intimate and cosy spot is famed for its house-infused liqueurs and syrups, creating unique, high-quality cocktails and serving charcuterie.
No5 St Leonards Road: A sophisticated cocktail bar in the heart of Windsor, offering a refined atmosphere and a menu of classic and contemporary mixed drinks.
All Bar One Windsor: A modern chain bar located within the elegant Windsor Royal Station, offering a stylish space for socialising with friends, an outdoor terrace, and popular cocktail masterclasses.
Henry VI Eton: Located on Eton High Street, this is a friendly pub that is part of a large chain, offering standard drinks deals and a convenient spot in the town.
Number 19, Eton: A hidden gem on Eton High Street, which magically transforms from a barber shop by day into an atmospheric wine and cocktail bar on Thursday to Sunday evenings.
The Shambles Bar: Found on Windsor’s High Street, this bar offers a range of cocktails with a unique historical backdrop, being a well-known spot in the town.
The Boatman: Situated on the Windsor riverside, offering stunning views of Eton bridge and the River Thames. While a pub/restaurant, its terrace is a beautiful place for enjoying a classic cocktail.
The Old Court Artspace: A vibrant arts centre in Windsor with an eclectic event programme and a bar, which serves as a great pre-show or casual evening drinks venue.
The Duchess of Cambridge: Right opposite Windsor Castle, this friendly pub is a firm favourite with locals and visitors, and offers a selection of cocktails in addition to its classic pub drinks.
The Piper Art Bar: A cosy Scottish bar located in Windsor, offering a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails and staying open late on weekends.
Browns Windsor: A classic British brasserie and bar housed in a grand cafe setting in Windsor, serving all-day meals but also a lovely spot for a sophisticated cocktail.
Gilbey’s Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse: Though primarily a restaurant, this establishment on Eton High Street offers a stylish bar area that is ideal for pre- or post-dinner drinks.
The Two Brewers: A charming, historic pub near Windsor Castle and the Long Walk, known for its picturesque floral exterior and a cosy interior where you can enjoy spirits neat or a classic mixer (no shots served).
The George: The flagship pub of the Windsor & Eton Brewery, located on Eton High Street, which offers an excellent selection of its own beers but also has a bar area for other drinks.
The Scotch: A glamorous and atmospheric nightclub in the heart of Windsor, offering an exciting and unique experience with great music and a focus on celebrations.
Old Ticket Hall: A lively spot located in Windsor, known for its friendly, relaxed crowd, great service, and music that encourages people to get up and dance.
The Boom: A nightclub in Windsor perfect for DJ dance parties and cocktails, featuring exposed brick walls and industrial chic vibes for a lively night out.
Fuzzy Bear Comedy Club: While a comedy venue in Windsor, it offers a full bar service and is a popular Saturday night destination for entertainment and drinks.
Ariius Nightclub (Note: Located in Windsor, ON, Canada, not UK): Often listed in searches but be aware this popular, high-end nightclub is in Canada, which can confuse visitors looking for a UK experience.
The Firestation: A multi-purpose arts and entertainment venue in Windsor that often hosts live music and DJ nights, transforming into a vibrant evening spot.
The Union Bar & Grill (or similar high-energy bar): Located centrally in Windsor, bars in this category often transform into late-night, high-energy venues with DJ sets and dancing on weekends.
Windsor’s Best Nightclubs (generic): Certain downtown venues in Windsor are known to operate as late-night clubs, popular for students and younger crowds.
Special Events/Seasonal Clubs: During major racing events like Royal Ascot, some venues or pop-ups in the Windsor/Eton area transform into temporary, luxury club experiences.
The Crooked House of Windsor: Primarily a wine bar, this charming, recognizable landmark sometimes extends its offerings to a more lively late-night atmosphere on peak days.