The first thing I saw when I walked into Windsor? The impressive towers of Windsor Castle rising above the rooftops, as if you’ve stepped onto a royal film set. The streets around Windsor Castle buzz with cosy pubs, tea houses and little shops, and everywhere you hear a mix of English with the curious voices of tourists from all over the world.
It was only later that I discovered this charming town in Berkshire isn’t just a royal residence, but also breathes centuries of history since the castle was built in the 11th century. With its location on the Thames, close to London, and a climate of mild summers and fresh, sometimes rainy winters, Windsor is a perfect destination all year round. Whether you come for the history, the nature or simply an English scone in the sun — there’s always something to enjoy here!
Wondering what to do in Windsor? I’ve put together all the tips for you!
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Visit Windsor Castle
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Go wild at LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
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Discover the area with the Baja Bikes Windsor bike tour
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Walk or cycle through Windsor Great Park, including The Long Walk
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Explore the old town centre and Thames riverside
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Visit the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum and Windsor Guildhall
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Take a boat trip on the Thames
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Shop in the retail area around the station and castle
Things to see and do in Windsor:
1. Windsor Castle: the absolute highlight
For me, Windsor Castle was truly the moment when I thought: yes, this is what I came to Windsor for. As soon as I walked through the entrance gates, it felt almost surreal that I was standing in a place where kings and queens have lived for over 900 years. Did you know the castle was originally built by William the Conqueror around 1070 and is still the largest inhabited castle in the world? So it’s not just a museum, but also a real working palace.
I bought a ticket for Windsor Castle online so I could skip the queues and visited the State Apartments. In winter, the Semi-State Rooms sometimes open too, and that felt almost like sneaking a peek into a private part of the palace. One of my favourite moments was visiting St. George’s Chapel (note: you can’t go in on Sundays, as it’s closed for services). This Gothic chapel is the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip and even Henry VIII, among others.
And then there’s Queen Mary’s Doll’s House: a gigantic dollhouse from the 1920s, complete with working lifts, running water and even flushing toilets. You really have to see it to believe it — I stood there with my mouth open staring at it.
Don’t forget to find a spot outside for the Changing of the Guard. The sound of drums, gleaming helmets in the sun and the perfectly synchronised marching soldiers make it an experience I’ll remember for a long time. It felt for a moment like I was standing in the middle of a royal tradition that has remained unchanged for centuries.
2. LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
Even more fun? Absolutely! LEGOLAND Windsor Resort is for me the place where you can be a child again, whether you’re six or thirty-six. With more than 55 attractions, there’s something for every family member.
What makes LEGOLAND truly perfect for families is that everything is designed to be child-friendly: from buggy parking spots to safe play zones. And if you want to make it really special, you can even stay overnight in the LEGO® theme park hotel, where the rooms look like you’re sleeping in a giant LEGO box.
Buy your Legoland tickets here.
3. Discover Windsor by bike
During the Baja Bikes Windsor bike tour you cycle in about 3 hours through the picturesque Thames Valley, past Windsor Castle, Dorney Court, the 2012 Olympic rowing venue and Eton College — with a local guide on a comfortable bike, full of fun facts along the way. Note: you don’t visit the castle during the tour, but you finish nearby so you can explore it yourself afterwards!
4. Windsor Great Park and The Long Walk
For those who love nature and atmosphere, Windsor Great Park is really a must. I put on my walking shoes (but you can also easily go by bike) and started on The Long Walk, a dead-straight avenue of 4.2 kilometres that begins at Windsor Castle and ends at the impressive statues of George III. The view from the castle over this avenue is already beautiful, but only when you walk on it do you realise how enormous and majestic it actually is.
Along the way you pass ancient oaks, perfectly maintained lawns and — if you’re lucky — grazing deer that look at you almost regally. In spring and summer, flowers bloom here in all colours, and in autumn the entire park transforms into a painting of red, orange and gold. In winter there’s such a quiet, almost mysterious atmosphere that I personally found very special.
The park itself is gigantic: besides The Long Walk you can explore forests, discover gardens, picnic by the water and on clear days even see all the way to Camberley. It feels like you’re stepping away from the hustle and bustle and walking into a royal back garden — because that’s essentially what it is.
5. Walking along the Thames
One of my favourite moments in Windsor was a peaceful walk along the River Thames. You’ll stroll along winding paths with views of bobbing swans, historic bridges and the occasional passing rowing boat. It’s the perfect spot to slow down for a while.
My tip: grab a coffee to go and sit on a bench somewhere just watching the water — instant relaxation!
Tip: Cinnamon Café, this wonderful café is located in the atmospheric Old Booking Hall of Windsor Royal Station — you can literally buy a train ticket and grab a massive cinnamon bun (or coffee) at the same time. How lovely is that? You’ll be sitting among characterful railway infrastructure and vintage details, so charming!
6. Museum & Guildhall
For a little dive into history, head to the Royal Borough Museum, housed in the beautiful Windsor Guildhall. Inside you’ll find stories and objects about local history, and outside you’ll be face to face with a building that itself breathes centuries of history.
7. Boat trip on the Thames
Want to see Windsor from a different perspective? Hire a boat or hop aboard a river cruise. Sailing on the Thames is not only romantic (especially at sunset), but also wonderfully relaxing. You’ll see the castle, green riverbanks and perhaps even some local wildlife. Tip: bring a picnic basket and turn it into a mini-adventure.
8. Shopping in the town centre
Windsor’s town centre is full of cosy shops, boutiques and cafés, especially in the streets around the station and castle. I love wandering around looking for unique souvenirs and English treats. My tip: skip the big chains for a moment and go for the small, independent shops — that’s where you’ll often find the nicest and most original things.
Frequently asked questions about Windsor
1. When is St. George’s Chapel open?
It’s usually open when you have a ticket for Windsor Castle — except on Sundays, due to church services.
2. Is the Baja Bikes bike tour suitable for children?
Yes! They have children’s bikes, child seats (for an extra charge) and the pace is relaxed. You finish close to the castle so it’s ideal for continuing on foot afterwards. Book your bike tour here.
3. Can you also travel to Windsor from London?
Absolutely! Windsor is easily accessible from London by train (about 45–60 minutes) — perfect for a day trip or short overnight stay.
4. Is photography allowed in Windsor Castle?
No, photography is forbidden inside the State Apartments and the Chapel, unfortunately. But outside there are plenty of photo opportunities, especially at the castle and in the park.
5. What makes Windsor truly unique compared to London?
Windsor is cosier, more historic and greener — with the castle as its centrepiece, but also with royal parks and tranquillity along the Thames. Grown up alongside London, but distinctive and charming.