Windsor and Eton Travel Guide

Windsor in Berkshire has a number of very English attributes. There's the charming and picturesque rolling green landscape. There's Eton and the River Thames. There's Windsor Bridge. But the real reason Windsor holds its exalted place in Britain (and the world) is that this is where the country's oldest and largest occupied castle stands. And what an occupant. Windsor Castle is where the Queen of England still makes it her royal residence (you'll know she's here because the royal standard will be flying from the keep) and visitors flock in droves to admire the building's architecture, paintings and rich history.

Sights

Windsor Castle is why almost everyone goes to Windsor. After extensive and expensive renovations necessitated by a serious 1992 fire, its magnificence has returned. Explore the grandeur of the State Apartments and St. Georges Chapel. Art enthusiasts will be impressed by the collection of paintings from legends like Rembrandt and Rubens in the State Apartments. Also open to visitors are the Precincts, Queen Mary's Doll House, the Gallery and the Albert Memorial Chapel. Just as at Buckingham Palace, there is a changing of the guards ceremony here and they march impressively to the beat of traditional military songs. Behind the castle, Windsor Great Park features the Long Walk passing Virginia Water Lake and the Savill Garden. When you've done the castle, some places to explore in the town of Windsor include the Guildhall and Windsor Parish Church. If you're traveling with kids, bring them to Legoland Windsor for a day of fun.

Dining

You know the old joke about English cuisine. Well, it doesn't apply anymore, even in a town as traditional and historic as Windsor, which has everything on offer, from pizza to curry. There are many eating places clustered around the Royal Train Station and Windsor Bridge. Peascod Street on the edge of town also has a great selection of restaurants. For nights out, bars and pubs can be found along the banks of the River Thames, on Thames Street and the Arches. More dining places are in and around Eton.

Shopping

There are many upscale boutiques and specialty shops along Peascod Street, King Edward Court and Thames Street. Near the Central Railway Station, the Windsor Royal Station Shopping Centre offers more choices, while King Edward Court Shopping Centre is the newest shopping mecca in the area. Fenwick department store is the place to splurge on clothes and makeup. The Windsor Farm Shop in Old Windsor and the shops along St. Leonards Road are also worth a look.

Where to Go in Windsor and Eton