Windsor Castle: A Butcombe Visitors Guide

Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, is a must-visit for history lovers and tourists alike. Situated in Berkshire, this iconic royal residence has been home to the British monarchy for over 900 years, blending stunning architecture with fascinating historical significance.

As you approach Windsor Castle, the imposing Round Tower, rising majestically above the surrounding landscape, immediately captures your attention. Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Windsor Castle has been transformed and expanded over centuries, serving as a royal home, fortress, and ceremonial space.

Windsor Castle: A Timeless Royal Treasure

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Explore the State Apartments

One of the highlights of visiting Windsor Castle is the chance to explore its lavish State Apartments. Each room is adorned with magnificent works of art, including paintings by masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens, as well as priceless tapestries and furniture. The interiors reflect a variety of styles, from the opulent Georgian elegance of the Grand Reception Room to the ornate decorations of the Queen’s Drawing Room.

These rooms are still used by the monarch for state occasions, and visiting them offers a glimpse into the grandeur of royal life. The collection of artwork in the State Apartments is one of the finest in the Royal Collection, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts.

St. George's Chapel: A Masterpiece of Gothic Architecture

No visit to Windsor Castle is complete without stepping into St. George’s Chapel. Renowned for its stunning Gothic design, this chapel has been the setting for many significant royal events, including weddings and funerals. Recent high-profile events include the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018 and the funeral of Prince Philip in 2021.

As you walk through the chapel, you’ll find yourself surrounded by intricate stone carvings, magnificent stained-glass windows, and the tombs of several monarchs, including Henry VIII and Charles I. It is also home to the Order of the Garter, the highest order of chivalry in Britain, established in 1348 by Edward III.

Witness the Changing of the Guard

A trip to Windsor Castle wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Changing of the Guard, one of the most iconic royal ceremonies in Britain. This colourful and time-honoured tradition takes place just outside the castle’s walls and offers a glimpse into the military precision and pageantry of the royal guards.

Dressed in their iconic red tunics and bearskin hats, the guards perform a meticulously choreographed routine, accompanied by the stirring sounds of a military band. The ceremony occurs regularly, though times may vary, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule before your visit.

The Semi-State Rooms: A Hidden Gem

If you’re visiting Windsor Castle during the autumn and winter months, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Semi-State Rooms. These rooms, lavishly decorated under the direction of King George IV, are used by the monarch for entertaining and official functions. The rooms are more intimate than the State Apartments but are just as opulent, with vibrant colours, intricate gilding, and luxurious fabrics.

While the Semi-State Rooms are less well-known, they offer visitors a unique glimpse into the personal quarters of royalty and the extravagance of royal entertaining.

The Royal Collection: Art and History Combined

Windsor Castle is home to one of the world’s greatest collections of art and historical treasures. Known as the Royal Collection, it features masterpieces from artists such as Holbein, Van Dyck, and Canaletto. Alongside the paintings, you’ll discover an array of tapestries, porcelain, and decorative arts.

One of the most popular exhibits is Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, an extraordinary miniature house built in the 1920s. It’s a stunning example of craftsmanship, featuring running water, electricity, and even a library filled with miniature books written by famous authors of the time.

Windsor Great Park: Nature at Its Finest

For those seeking a bit of tranquillity after touring the castle, Windsor Great Park offers the perfect escape. This sprawling parkland, which covers over 4,800 acres, has been a royal hunting ground for centuries and is now open to the public.

One of the most picturesque features of the park is the Long Walk, a tree-lined avenue that stretches for nearly three miles from the castle gates to the Copper Horse statue at the far end. The views along the Long Walk are breathtaking, particularly on a clear day when you can see the full grandeur of Windsor Castle from afar.

The park is also home to the Savill Garden, a beautifully landscaped garden filled with exotic plants and serene water features. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic, Windsor Great Park provides a perfect complement to your visit to the castle.

Directions From Windsor Castle To The MIll

Follow A332 to Bracknell Rd/A322 in Winkfield Row
17 min (9.2 mi)

Take M3, A331, A31 and A3 to A333 in Hindhead. Take the exit for A333 from A3
35 min (27.7 mi)

Take Portsmouth Rd, Upper Hammer Ln, Woolmer Hill Rd and Critchmere Ln to your destination in Haslemere
7 min (2.6 mi)