A theme park, theater and parkland make for an ideal family escapade amid some of Britain’s most historic and regal structures. If the flag is up, the queen is in.
With its 11th-century castle, glorious chapel and rolling countryside, Windsor is a perfect place for a member of the royal family to spend the weekend. Just across the Windsor Bridge on the River Thames from the renowned Eton College, this village has a quaint high street and extensive parkland. Climb up to the bucolic knolls above the castle for the best views of this medieval hamlet.
Gaze up at the central tower of Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. When the queen is in residence the Royal Standard flag flies from the turret. Tours provide access to the opulent chambers of the State Apartments and the rest of the compound. Examine miniature models of the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House and attend the Changing the Guard ceremony.
In the Lower Ward stands St. George’s Chapel, where royal weddings take place and former monarchs are buried. Marvel at the stone fan-vaulted ceiling and the stained-glass windows.
Bring the whole family to a pantomime or comedy act in the Theatre Royal. These shows are often attended by royalty.
An alternative day out for the kids is LEGOLAND®, where dragons, wizards and pirates are brought to life in Lego form beside thrilling rides.
Browse the stores in the Windsor Royal Shopping Centre and explore the woodland and rolling terrain of the 4,800-acre (1,900-hectare) Windsor Great Park.
Venture west into the green countryside and tour the Dorney Court manor house. Period décor and portraits of the affluent Palmer family adorn the estate, while manicured gardens and Dorney Lake enclose it.
The River Thames runs along the northern end of Windsor in the western outskirts of London. Fly to Heathrow Airport and drive west for 8 miles (13 kilometers) to get here in about 15 minutes. Explore the northern bank of the river for the high street and college of Eton.
Live like a king or queen for the day in Windsor.