Welcome to Windsor: Where Royal Tradition Meets Equestrian Elegance
Windsor is a place where equestrian prestige, royal tradition, and pastoral beauty come together in a uniquely British blend. Home to Guards Polo Club and set within the vast Windsor Great Park, the region offers a rare balance of heritage and refinement. Visitors are treated to world-class sport, historic sites, and tranquil natural surroundings—all within an hour of central London. Whether arriving for a marquee polo event or a quiet countryside escape, Windsor is a destination that combines elegance with accessibility.
Destination Overview
Situated on the River Thames and steeped in centuries of royal history, Windsor is one of England’s most iconic towns. Beyond the imposing Windsor Castle and manicured gardens, the area is also renowned for its equestrian culture. Guards Polo Club, established in 1955, is closely linked with the British Royal Family and regularly hosts premier events like the Cartier Queen’s Cup.
The town itself is walkable, charming, and full of independent shops, traditional pubs, and excellent restaurants. Nearby Ascot and Eton provide further cultural depth, while Windsor Great Park offers serene woodlands, open fields, and winding paths ideal for riding or walking.
Seasonal highlights
Spring
(March-May)
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The polo season begins, accompanied by blossoming gardens and mild weather.
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Ideal time for castle visits, countryside walks, and spring fashion at fieldside events.
Summer
(June-August)
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Peak polo and racing season with glamorous fixtures at Guards and Royal Ascot.
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Perfect for picnics, river cruises, and outdoor theatre in Windsor Castle grounds.
Autumn
(September-November)
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Cooler days and changing foliage create a picturesque backdrop for polo finals and quiet rides through the park.
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Harvest menus, food festivals, and countryside charm take centre stage.
Winter
(December-February)
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A more relaxed pace, with local equestrian training clinics and indoor events.
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Windsor Castle and Eton light up for the holidays with markets and festive decor.
Getting Here
Windsor is easily accessible by train, car, or plane. Two train stations—Windsor & Eton Central and Windsor & Eton Riverside—offer direct service from London Paddington and London Waterloo. By car, Windsor is roughly a 40-minute drive from central London via the M4. Heathrow Airport is just 20 minutes away, making it a convenient entry point for international visitors.
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Windsor Great Park and Guards Polo Club are best reached by car or taxi. Event parking is usually available, but early arrival is recommended.
Year-Round Activities
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Polo matches and social events at Guards Polo Club
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Royal pageantry and exhibitions at Windsor Castle
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Scenic walks or cycling through Windsor Great Park
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Horse-drawn carriage rides, boating, or picnicking along the River Thames
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Equestrian centers and riding schools offering lessons and trail rides
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Dining in gourmet bistros or traditional English pubs
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Cultural outings to Ascot Racecourse, Eton College, or Runnymede
Local Q&A
Insider Tips for a Memorable Visit
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Guards Polo Club events can vary in formality—check the dress code and hospitality offerings before you go.
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Book restaurant and hotel reservations early during major polo and racing weekends.
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Many local farm shops and delis offer ready-made picnic boxes perfect for fieldside dining.
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For a peaceful morning, walk The Long Walk before the castle opens.
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Avoid peak arrival times on event days by planning to enter before 11:00 AM.
