One of the official residences of the British Royal Family, Windsor is a town situated in Berkshire approximately 21 miles from central London. Rich with history from all periods of the British past today Windsor is known for its notable residents and attractions. Here are my top 5 things to do when visiting Windsor.
- Windsor Castle
The original building which stood on the site of Windsor Castle was built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror and since the time of Henry I it has been home to the monarchs of Britain and is, in fact, the longest-occupied palace in Europe. With lavish 19th century state apartments with Rococo, Gothic and Baroque furnishings and beautiful 15th century Chapel the castle holds a special place in Britain’s architectural treasury. Be sure to tour this lovely royal residence when visiting Windsor.
Source: berkshirehistory.com
- LEGOLAND
If you are visiting with the family then no-where is better for children than LEGOLAND – the Lego themed attraction with a host of games and rides to keep everyone entertained. There are 11 themed areas in the park, my favourite is Miniland which showcases landmarks from around the world in miniature Lego versions – don’t miss mini St Pauls Cathedral! With 2 roller coasters and 6 water slides this is definitely the venue for families with energy to burn to have some fun! See Choice Hotel’s Ultimate Guide to Legoland for more information.
- Royal Windsor Racecourse
This thoroughbred horse racing venue is one of only two figure of eight courses in the UK and has been linked to horse racing since the time of Henry VIII. Dedicated to flat racing (which is run over a level track at a predetermined distance) there are a number of notable races worth attending throughout the year. For more information on upcoming events check the website http://www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk/
- Frogmore House
Standing at the centre of the Frogmore Estate, Frogmore House is a Grade I listed 17th century country house standing within beautiful 33 acre gardens only half a mile away from Windsor Castle. Opened to the public in 1990 the house boasts 18 bedrooms with a number of rooms keeping 18th and 19th century decoration. Highlights include the Royal Mausoleum – the burial place of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, the Duchess of Kent’s Mausoleum, a Gothic ruin and the rather lovely Queen Victoria’s Tea House.
Source: royalcollection.org.uk
- The Savill Garden
Windsor Great Park is home to an enclosed garden of majestic woodland, ornamental areas and a pond known as the Savill Garden. The garden has its own visitor centre, the Savill Building with timber for the floor and amazing gridshell roof coming from the Windsor Estate. The building has won a number of award including RIBA, Wood Awards and the IStructE Structural Awards Supreme Award all in 2007. Highlights of the garden include the lovely New Zealand garden, the Queen Temperate House and trees which have been planted by the Royal family.
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