Windsor and Eton
castle and School
Windsor and Eton sit on opposite sides of the river to each other, as a day trip it is a good idea to combine them both.
The first call of your day is going to be the magnificent castle set in Windsor great park this mighty fortress is still used by the queen as her weekend retreat and is fantastic to behold it totally dominates the town with its twin towers and walls.
The castle is the oldest and largest occupied fortress in the world it was first founded by William the conqueror in 1070 since then it has constantly been improved upon, added to, refurbished and altered by successive monarchs.
Inside highlights include St George’s chapel, Albert memorial chapel, the Grand staircase and St Georges Hall this last has been lovingly restored after the fire of 1992. The state apartments are also a must see they house a fantastic collection of art with works by Canaletto, Rembrandt, Leonardo da Vinci, Holbein, Rubens and Van Dyck. Other items to see include a dolls house complete with running water electricity and a wine cellar.
Outside as well as admiring the castle you can watch the Changing of the guard which is very popular with visitors, after explore the great park.
The town itself is full of grand cafes expensive boutiques and nice restaurants as well as many independent shops and grand Georgian buildings, checkout the famous Guildhall where Prince Charles and Camilla married.
Across the river in Eton, the atmospheres is very laid back and quiet with one main street and of course, the most famous school in England if not the world. The pupils are instantly recognisable with their famous tailcoats and collars
The school has educated 18 former British prime ministers including Walpole, Macmillan, Pit the elder Douglas Home, The Duke of Wellington as well as George Orwell, Ian Fleming, Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Bear Grylls both princes William and Harry where also pupils. Tours of the school are available tickets must be booked at the tourist information office.
Activities in Windsor and Eton
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