Windsor Castle: A Majestic Jewel of English Heritage

Windsor Castle, located in the charming town of Windsor in England, is a stunning architectural marvel and a must-visit for anyone who loves history, culture and elegance. The castle has been the residence of British monarchs for over 900 years, making it one of the oldest and largest occupied castles in the world.

As you approach the castle, you'll be struck by its impressive size and grandeur. The castle's walls are made of a beautiful combination of pale stone and red brick, and the castle's towers soar high into the sky. The castle is surrounded by immaculately manicured gardens and beautiful parks, which are a joy to stroll through on a sunny day.

Once you enter the castle, you'll be transported back in time to an era of grandeur, elegance and sophistication. The castle's interiors are a true masterpiece of art and craftsmanship, with every room and hall decorated with stunning works of art, antique furnishings, and rich tapestries.

The History of Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is a royal residence located in the town of Windsor, England with a rich history dating back to the 11th century. It was originally built by William the Conqueror as a wooden fortification, but over the centuries it has been expanded and renovated by successive monarchs into the magnificent stone palace that stands today.

Throughout its history, Windsor Castle has played a significant role in English monarchy and politics. It was a favored residence of many monarchs, including King Henry II, who transformed the castle into a luxurious palace in the 12th century, and Queen Victoria, who made significant renovations to the castle in the 19th century.

Windsor Castle has also played a role in many important historical events, such as the English Civil War, when it was used as a military stronghold by the Royalists, and World War II, when it was used as a safe haven for the royal family and important artworks. Despite its historic past, Windsor Castle continues to play a central role in the British monarchy and remains one of the country's most popular tourist attractions.

6 Most Popular Points of Interest at Windsor Castle:

1. St. George's Chapel: This stunning chapel is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England. It is the place where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married in 2018.
2. State Apartments: These grand rooms are used for official state functions and are a breathtaking display of the castle's wealth and elegance. They are beautifully furnished with antique furniture and works of art, and are a must-see for anyone visiting the castle. On November 20, 1992, a fire at Windsor Castle caused significant damage to the castle's State Apartments, including the destruction of many works of art, furniture, and historical artifacts. It sparked a major restoration effort to successfully repair and restore the castle to its former glory.
3. Queen Mary's Dolls' House: This incredible dollhouse, built in the 1920s, is a miniaturized replica of a royal palace, complete with electric lights, running water, and even miniature books.
4. The Round Tower: The Round Tower offers breathtaking views of the castle's surroundings and the town of Windsor. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the area.
5. The Long Walk: This tree-lined path runs for over 3 kilometers and offers beautiful views of the castle and the surrounding countryside. It is a great place to go for a leisurely walk and take in the castle's natural beauty.
6. Albert Memorial Chapel: Built in the 14th century and named in honor of Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria, this chapel is renowned for its beautiful architecture, stained glass windows, and intricate carvings, which include scenes from the life of Prince Albert. It is also now the resting place for Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh. Their tomb is on the west side of the chapel and can be seen by visitors of the chapel. 

Windsor Castle is a true masterpiece of architecture and history, and a must-visit for anyone who loves beauty and elegance. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or simply someone who enjoys visiting beautiful places, you'll be captivated by the magic of Windsor Castle.

How to Visit Windsor Castle from London

Windsor Castle is approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) from London, England. There are several options for getting to Windsor Castle from London:

• Train: The quickest and most convenient way to get to Windsor Castle from London is by train. Trains run frequently from London Waterloo and London Paddington. From London Paddington, you can take a 35-minute train journey, changing trains in Slough, to Eton Central and then taking a short walk to Windsor Castle. If you don’t want to change trains, there is a direct train to Windsor & Eton Riverside that takes approximately an hour. A short walk to Windsor is still required from the station.  
• Car: If you have access to a car, you can drive from London to Windsor. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic. You may want to consider a private car and driver.
• Tour: A group tour from London can be arranged. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, and entrance to the castle.

Regardless of how you choose to get to Windsor Castle, it's a beautiful and historic location well worth a visit, especially if you're interested in English history and royalty. 

Want to Take a Historic Tour of Windsor Castle?

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Contact New View Travel to see how we can help you experience the UK including London, Windsor Castle and more.