Things to do in Windsor
Looking for a stunning, historic destination for the perfect short break or day out? Want a mix of exciting activities, fantastic shopping, delicious dining options, and a variety of places to stay for a relaxing getaway? Look no further than the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead!
Affordable Things to do in Windsor for Everyone
1. Watch the Guards March Through Windsor
Experience one of Windsor’s most iconic traditions—the Guard March! The Windsor Castle Guard, often accompanied by a military band, marches from Victoria Barracks (on Sheet Street) to Windsor Castle via Windsor High Street on select days throughout the year. The march begins at approximately 10:50 AM, with the guards returning at around 11:30 AM.
For the best views, head to the Corn Exchange at the historic Windsor Guildhall. Since the schedule is determined by the British Army and varies monthly, be sure to check in advance. Please note that the Changing the Guard ceremony inside Windsor Castle requires an entry ticket.
2. Explore Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
Located within the Windsor Guildhall, this family-friendly museum is packed with fascinating exhibits and interactive displays showcasing the history of East Berkshire. Follow the audio trail to hear stories from local residents about Windsor’s evolving landscape. The collection ranges from a 100,000-year-old mammoth tusk to a model of the Hawker Hurricane, designed by Windsor-born Sir Sydney Camm.
3. Stroll the Long Walk & Windsor Great Park
Originally designed by Charles II, the Long Walk is a breathtaking three-mile avenue stretching from Windsor Castle into Windsor Great Park. Covering 5,000 acres, this vast landscape was once part of a Norman hunting ground and is home to ancient oaks, woodland, open fields, and a roaming herd of deer. It’s the perfect place for a scenic walk or picnic.
4. Attend Evensong at St George's Chapel
Set within Windsor Castle, St George’s Chapel is an architectural masterpiece and the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. It was also the venue for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s 2018 wedding. Visitors can attend the Evensong service free of charge, a 45-minute experience beautifully sung by the Chapel Choir. Services are held daily at 5:15 PM, except Wednesdays.
5. Visit St John’s Parish Church, Windsor
Located in the shadow of Windsor Castle, Windsor Parish Church is open daily and houses exquisite wood carvings by Grinling Gibbons and a magnificent painting of The Last Supper, considered a national treasure. The artwork was gifted by George III and carefully restored in 2003.
6. Follow The Queen’s Walkway
A self-guided walking trail marked by 63 gunmetal plaques connects 63 of Windsor’s top landmarks. This 4-mile circular route celebrates Queen Elizabeth II’s achievement as Britain’s longest-reigning monarch. Download the Queen’s Walkway digital brochure for a free guide to the trail’s highlights.
7. Explore The Eton Walkway
Discover Eton’s rich heritage by following a trail marked with 18 bronze Eton coat of arms plaques. This circular walk provides insight into the town’s fascinating history, including famous alumni of Eton College. A free digital guide is available, while printed copies are available for purchase.
8. Discover Eton College’s Free Museums
Did you know that Eton College houses three unique museums? Open to the public on Sundays from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM, these museums offer an enriching experience:
Natural History Museum – Showcasing local and global wildlife.
Museum of Antiquities – Featuring ancient artifacts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
Museum of Eton Life – Offering a glimpse into student life at Eton College (also open on Saturdays from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM).
Eton College Collections also host free events throughout the year for all ages and interests.
9. Walk Along the River Thames
The Thames Path winds through the Royal Borough, offering picturesque views and charming riverside towns between Hurley and Runnymede. This scenic route follows the path once traveled by the Royal Family, who used the river for transportation between palaces.
If visiting in July, keep an eye out for Royal Swan Upping, an annual census of the swan population. Dressed in traditional scarlet uniforms, the Royal Swan Uppers row along the Thames, accompanied by representatives from the Vintners’ and Dyers’ Livery Companies. It’s a fascinating royal tradition to witness!
Windsor and its surrounding areas are packed with history, stunning scenery, and plenty of free activities. Whether you love history, nature, or a scenic stroll, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Things to do in Windsor for Children
Legoland Windsor
Legoland Windsor is a paradise for kids aged 3-12, packed with over 55 rides, live shows, interactive attractions, and LEGO-building workshops. But it's not just for little ones—older kids and adults can join in the fun too! Set within 150 acres of stunning parkland, there's so much to explore that one day may not be enough to experience it all.
Windsor Duck Tours
Hop aboard Windsor’s iconic 26-seat amphibious vehicle for a one-of-a-kind tour by land and water! The bright yellow Windsor Duck Tour is impossible to miss and departs from the Duck Stop on Thames Street, right across from Theatre Royal Windsor. The route takes you through Windsor’s historic streets before splashing into the Thames for a unique riverside perspective. Keep an eye out—you might even spot the ‘Duck’ floating past The Boatman pub during your visit!
Windsor Tour Bus
The Windsor sightseeing bus offers a convenient hop-on, hop-off experience, allowing you to explore the town’s top landmarks at your own pace. A full loop takes 45 minutes, but with multiple stops along the way, you can hop off to visit key attractions before rejoining the tour. If you're looking for a scenic break, The Boatman pub is just across Eton Bridge, making it the perfect stop for lunch or coffee. Tour operating times vary throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for the latest schedule.
Things to do in Windsor for the Grown-Ups
French Brothers River Trips
For a scenic trip down the Thames, look no further than French Brothers River Trips, departing just a short walk from The Boatman. Whether you're looking for a relaxing cruise or a unique way to get to Royal Windsor Racecourse, French Brothers has you covered.
On Monday nights, enjoy the excitement of race night at Royal Windsor Racecourse without the hassle of driving—French Brothers offers direct boat trips from central Windsor to the racecourse and back. Why not make a day of it? Stop by The Boatman for a late lunch before the races or dinner afterward!
Royal Windsor Racecourse
With 26 flat-racing fixtures throughout the year, Royal Windsor Racecourse offers thrilling events, including family fun days, Ladies’ Day, and Gentleman’s Day. Most Monday night races also feature live music after the final race, making for a fantastic evening out.
To make your experience even more special, arrive in style by boat with French Brothers River Trips. Their jetty is just a short stroll from The Boatman, so whether you’re celebrating a win or winding down after the races, we’re the perfect spot for a drink or a meal!
Theatre Royal Windsor
The Theatre Royal Windsor is Britain’s only year-round, unsubsidised producing theatre, offering an exciting mix of opera, ballet, comedy, drama, farce, and musicals. One of its biggest highlights is the side-splitting annual Pantomime, running for six weeks every Christmas—always a sell-out, so be sure to book early!
For the perfect pre-theatre dining experience, visit The Boatman, just around the corner from the theatre. With food served daily from 12 noon to 10 pm, you can enjoy a delicious meal before heading off for an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
The Old Ticket Hall
Right behind The Boatman sits The Old Ticket Hall, Windsor’s favourite live music venue—a hidden gem for locals and visitors alike. Housed in a Grade II Listed Building, this venue was once the ticket hall for Windsor & Eton Riverside Station and now hosts a fantastic lineup of bands, duos, and solo artists spanning from acoustic sets to rock performances.
Open from 8 pm to 2 am, Wednesday to Sunday, The Old Ticket Hall doesn’t serve food, but that’s where we come in! Join us at The Boatman for dinner first—we serve food daily from 12 noon to 10 pm—before heading over for a great night out in Windsor.