When the World Came to Windsor
With the nation’s emotions on display following the sad passing of our Queen, the towns and cities connected to the monarchy have also been on display. From Balmoral to Sandringham and Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle, they have all have played their part in the nations mourning. With Windsor on our doorstep, it already holds a special place in our heart and it has been wonderful to see so many flock to the town to pay their respects. If you were unable to visit during the mourning period or if the televised images of Windsor have made you think about visiting Windsor or a possible move to the area, then look no further. Here are Chiltern Relocation’s top picks in Windsor.
Windsor Castle
The heart of the town and the where the Queen called ‘home’. The Queen and Prince Philip lived here during the pandemic and she loved to be surrounded by her dogs and horses here. Visiting the castle is an absolute must. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it has since been the home of 40 monarchs. Visitors can walk through the State Apartments, see the Queen’s coronation dress, watch the Changing of the Guard and get up close to Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House which was designed for Queen Mary in 1924. Visitors also get the opportunity to visit the 500-year-old St George’s Chapel where the Queen and ten kings including Henry VIII and Charles I are buried. The castle is set to reopen on 29th September.
Windsor Great Park, The Long Walk, Savill Garden and Smiths Lawn Polo
Windsor Great Park has been enjoyed by royalty since William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings, and the Deer Park in particular has a rich history as it was once part of a vast Norman hunting forest. Created by King Charles II, the Long Walk was introduced in 1680 – although it was not until 1683 that the avenue was extended to its current length. From the Castle gate to the foot of the statue of King George III (The Copper Horse), The Long Walk is 2.64 miles in length and is popular with dog walkers, runners and families.
Resting in the heart of Windsor Great Park, The Savill Garden is an enclosed part of Windsor Great Park and is one of Britain’s greatest ornamental gardens. Commissioned by George V and created by Sir Eric Savill in 1932, the garden includes woodland, ornamental areas and a pond.
Smith’s Lawn is home to Guards Polo Club and lies alongside one of the main cycling and riding routes around the Great Park. Formed in 1955, Guard’s Polo Club is the largest in Europe and from March to September the polo lawns are an area of regular activity, with preparations for the upcoming season and matches being played across the various pitches. If you would like to combine a visit to the Park with watching a match at this regal sporting ground, do visit the Guard’s Polo website for a match schedule.
Windsor town centre
Charming cobbled streets and historic buildings surround Windsor Castle which is centrally located within the town. Just a few steps away the iconic Windsor Royal Station offers fabulous shopping and eating in the heart of Windsor. The Windsor Yards shopping centre also offers pedestrianised shopping with all the major High Street names in addition to lots of independent shops.
Royal Windsor racecourse
Set in 165 acres of stunning Berkshire countryside, Royal Windsor Racecourse has been a part of the landscape for hundreds of years. Right on the River Thames and in the shadow of Windsor Castle, it is the perfect location for a day at the races. The highlight of the event calendar is Royal Ascot in June and between April and October the race course hosts Monday night racing which is very popular.
LEGOLAND
The world-famous theme park is an all-year-round attraction. Locals will often buy a season ticket so they can pop in after school on a sunny afternoon and enjoy a few rides. With 55 rides and attractions there is something for everyone – from rollercoasters to water rides to live shows and 4D movies. In the summer months Drench Towers the largest water play structure ion the UK is the perfect spot to cool down.
If you would like more information about moving to Windsor then please do get in touch. We recently moved a French family to Windsor – read our case study here. Visit www.chilternrelocaiton.com, call 01494 672086 or email enquiries@chilternrelocation.com.
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