The day I did my day trip to Windsor Castle, I was dealing with typically English weather – rain! How appropriate!
Armed with my trusty mini umbrella in one hand, and my map in my other hand, I made my way from the train station to the castle. I had arrived from London, for a one-day excursion.
Huge, imposing walls before me had me in awe. I had learned so much of the history of Windsor Castle and the kings and queens who resided here, it was pretty amazing to be checking it out in person.
What To See During A Day Trip To Windsor Castle
During my day trip to Windsor Castle, I was lucky because there were few people there. Perhaps the rainy forecast was scaring them off. And so, I could take my time walking around.
The architecture, the craftsmanship and the stateliness of Windsor Castle are amazing. The feature photo is of the courtyard of the Upper Ward, and it shows you how majestic the buildings are at Windsor Castle.
You can’t see any hint of the fire that hit it in 1992. I remember hearing about this tragic event and hoping they could restore it to its glory. And they certainly have!
The first thing I did was go inside to tour the halls and rooms. As there’s no photography permitted inside, you can check out the official video to get a taste of what to expect.
You’ll recognize many rooms from photographs of Queen Elizabeth greeting dignitaries and other guests. There’s gold EVERYWHERE. Red is a dominant colour.
One thing you’ll notice is that throughout the castle are touches of design from various time periods. You can see the progression of design throughout the castle. This is not surprising since it’s been a royal residence for 900 years!
The Rain-Soaked Windsor Castle Garden
When you exit the building, the gardens at Windsor Castle are equally spectacular. A variety of plants and flowers are carefully planted throughout the courtyards and pathways around the walls.
I can imagine the Queen taking a bit of fresh air with a walk around the roses.
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St. George’s Chapel And Tudor Windsor
Since you’re outside, it’s best to head over to St. George’s Chapel at this time. What struck me was the Tudor influence in some of the buildings in this area.
St. George’s Chapel is full of history. Henry VIII and Jane Seymour are buried here, as are other kings and royals.
It’s also here that many royal weddings have taken place over the years. Most recently it was the site of Prince Harry’s and Meagan Markle’s wedding. So it’s a must-visit for fans of the British Royal Family!
| Related: Key Sites in Edinburgh To Explore
History Of Windsor Castle
Built in the 11th century, it is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. A royal residence for the Queen, it has over the centuries been upgraded and re-built. to look like something from the medieval past. Many of the buildings were reconstructed or re-modeled in the Victorian period.
The Upper Ward was a 19th-century creation based on a vision of what a castle should be. It’s picturesque, stately and dramatic.
Windsor Castle is a must-visit at least once in a lifetime if you are touring England. It’s one of the most iconic, Instagrammable places in the country.
TIP: While you’re there, head over the river to Eton to check out Eton College. Aside from being one of the oldest schools in the UK, it also has some interesting student graffiti on the walls. Royalty, lords and other key figures in British society have attended Eton College over the centuries. It’s one of the best-known boy’s schools in the world.For more information check out the official webpage: Windsor Castle.
QUESTION: Are you planning a trip to the UK, including a day trip to Windsor Castle? What else do you want to see?
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We ran out of time and didn’t make it to Windsor Castle the last time that we were in London – hoping to make it there next summer!