Windsor City Centre is synonymous with the British monarchy. This is where Queen Elizabeth II has her official country residence, a monumental castle where she spends many weekends. Visit the ancient fortress then explore the surrounding 17th-century cobbled streets lined with shops, pubs and historical buildings.
In the heart of the city center is Windsor Castle, a working palace that's been home to British monarchs for approximately 1,000 years. The hilltop stronghold was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and is the oldest inhabited castle in the world. Go on a guided tour of state rooms that are lavishly decorated with tapestries, paintings by old masters and antique furniture pieces collected by monarchs over centuries. This royal residence is said to be the favorite of Queen Elizabeth II. You'll know if she's home because the Royal Standard flag will be flying over the Round Tower.
After your visit, sightsee the rest of the compact city center on foot. Stroll along picturesque cobbled streets past the Crooked House of Windsor, a gravity-defying building that was constructed in 1592. Next to it is Queen Charlotte Street which, at just under 52 feet (16 meters) long, lays claim to being the shortest street in Britain.
For breakfast, lunch and dinner, take your pick of traditional pubs and restaurants serving British and international cuisines.
Book a guided tour of the upper rooms of the Windsor Guildhall, which was built by Sir Christopher Wren, the architect of London's St. Paul's Cathedral. Study portraits of British monarchs from Queen Elizabeth I to Queen Elizabeth II. See where the Prince of Wales married Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. The first floor rooms house the collections of the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum.
From here, walk a few minutes to Windsor Promenade and take a boat cruise along the River Thames. Then finish the day by watching a show at the Theatre Royal Windsor.
One of the easiest ways to travel to Windsor City Centre is by train. The journey takes less than 1 hour from London, and the train station is opposite the castle.
