Windsor and Eton
West of London, in the county of Berkshire, lies the twin town of Windsor and Eton. A day trip to Windsor and Eton is a good idea during a visit to London.
Just a short drive from London and yet a world apart, the charming towns of Windsor and Eton invite you to travel back in time to the history of Great Britain. Here, majestic architecture is framed by the picturesque English countryside, and traditions live on in the winding lanes and green meadows.
Windsor lies on the southern bank of the Thames. Windsor Castle is one of the three official residences of the royal family of England. The castle is said to be the largest permanently inhabited castle in the world. A stroll through the magnificent apartments and the impressive St. George’s Chapel is an unforgettable experience.
Windsor is also the ancestral seat of the Order of the Garter, the oldest active order of knighthood in the world.
On the northern side of the river lies Eton, a university town. It is home to the world-famous Eton College, an exclusive and not exactly inexpensive boarding school. This is where the offspring of the rich and noble learn for life. The rowing and canoeing competitions of the 2012 Summer Olympics took place on Dorney Lake, which belongs to the college.
Both cities are also a paradise for nature lovers. From the expansive parks around Windsor Castle to the idyllic banks of the Thames, you can enjoy the tranquillity of the English countryside. And if you’re looking for some action, you can let off steam in one of the many outdoor activities, such as cycling, rowing or golf.
But what makes Windsor and Eton truly unique is their atmosphere. The towns exude a calm and serenity that is rare to find in today’s hectic world. Here you can escape everyday life and immerse yourself in a world characterized by royal splendour, historical magnificence and idyllic nature.
Day trip tips for Windsor and Eton
Windsor Castle is in Windsor, around 25 km from London. The river Thames flows towards London beneath the castle.
About 25 km lie between London and Eton, which is located directly opposite of Windsor. The towns are separated by the river Thames but there is a bridge to cross over from one to the other.
Book your excursion
Tips for a relaxed stay
The Windsor Trooper Pub & Inn
Holiday Inn Express Windsor, an IHG Hotel
Cosy Central Windsor Apartment , Parking
Windsor and Eton travel information
Arrival
By plane
The nearest airport is London Heathrow.
By train
The twin city has two railroad stations. From London Waterloo station trains go to Windsor and Eton Riverside, from Paddington station you can reach Windsor and Eton Central with a single change. There are other connections from Maidenhead and Bristol. From both stations you can easily reach Windsor Castle on foot.
By car
The M3, M4, M25 and M40 freeways run right near the city.
Parking
There are several paid parking garages and parking lots in downtown Windsor.
Some long-term parking lots offer more favorable rates, for example Romney Lock and King Edward VII parking garages on Datchet Road and Alma Road and Alexandra Gardens parking lots, next to Coach Park.
Best time to visit
Windsor, a historic town in England, is known for its mild climate and can be visited all year round.
Spring (March – May)
Spring in Windsor is a mixture of sunny and pleasantly mild days and cool and wet days. Temperatures range between 6°C and 11°C, but can reach up to 18°C.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is the warmest season in Windsor, with average temperatures between 14°C and 25°C.
Fall (September – November)
In the fall, temperatures begin to drop, but generally remain mild. Average temperatures during the day are around 15°C.
Winter (December – February)
Winter in Windsor is cold, but thanks to the Gulf Stream, which provides the UK with warmth stored in the South Sea throughout the winter, frost and snow are rare. The average temperature during the day is around 7°C.
Rainy days
In terms of rainfall, Windsor receives around 611mm of rain per year over 147 days of rainfall. The rain is evenly distributed throughout the year, which means that rain can occur regardless of the season.