Top Tips for a family day in Windsor

I grew up near Windsor (in fact I went to school in the town for a number of years). Since then my parents have moved away but we still find the time to visit as and when we can. We recently returned on a gorgeously hot weekend over Easter. Here are my top tips for a family trip to Windsor.

1. Try and time your trip to coincide with changing of the guard – position yourself on the High Street at 10.50am (we like being opposite the Victoria statue) on selected days of the week to watch the Guards as they march past on their way to the Castle.  The march lasts around 20 minutes and is heralded by the accompanying band.  Because this is a popular Windsor attraction, it is worth getting there early to get the best spot!

2. Take a picnic (or buy one in Marks and Spencer or the market that appears on Pescod Street at weekends). Enjoy your picnic on the long walk (note that there are hardly any public toilets so try and persuade the children to go in Marks and Spencer!). THere’s plenty of space for the children to run around and its ideal scooter territory!

3. Walk down to the river and feed the swans and or take a boat trip. You can buy a bag of swan food from the stall located near the Bridge. French Brothers offer a range of river trips – you could head down to Runnymede (home of the magna carter) or to nearby Maidenhead.

4. Visit Legoland – no trip to Windsor would be complete without a trip to nearby Legoland (easily accessible by public transport from the town centre).

5. Walk over the bridge to Eton – an easy and very pleasant stroll from the centre of Windsor sees you in Eton (home of the world famous private school with famous royal alumni!). We love having lunch/dinner at the cote brasserie (and I don’t normally recommend chain places!), it has an enviable location on the bridge (and is super family friendly – win win situation!).

6. Take a treasure trail tour – a set of self guided tours of the town, recommended for children older than 6 but easily achievable for those younger family members as well!

7. Attend evensong at St Georges Chapel – its free! You don’t need to have paid entrance to the castle (although that is a great day out!) – you can attend a religious service for free. Check the website for timings, they vary day to day. I used to sing evensong from time to time at the chapel and its magical…I highly recommend it.

8. Visit Windsor Leisure Centre for a swim – many a weekend was spent here as a child. s equipped with a wave machine, giant slides, water features, interactive water play feature and spa pool. It’s the perfect place for a fun swim!

9. Spend a day out at the Savill Garden – a wonderful family day out – exquisite gardens, fab play park and delicious food at the Savill Garden Kitchen (or grab a snack from the kiosk on Obelisk Lawn).

10. If time permits explore the area – Bekonscot (a stunning model village), Wellington Country Park, or Marlow (to name just a few!).

Enjoy your stay in Windsor!