Things to see and do in Berkshire

Berkshire
5 Unmissable things to see and do in Berkshire


Things to see and do in Berkshire

Windsor is home to the famous Windsor Castle, one of the oldest and largest occupied castles in the world. In Windsor, there are lots of attractions and places to see. Take a leisurely boat trip along the River Thames, or visit the popular Fudge Kitchen if you're fancying something sweet! 



1. Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the largest and most ancient occupied fortress and is a majestic vision of battlements and towers. The castle is used for special occasions and is one of the Queen’s residences. Make sure to go on one of the informative tours, which takes you around the beautiful chapels and castle.

Windsor Castle art and gifts

On your visit, you will discover Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, which was designed and made for Queen Mary between 1921 and 1924. So much detail has gone into the doll’s house including electricity, lighting and running water! Can you spot the tiny Crown Jewels and vintage wine in the cellar?

There is also State Apartments to take a look round, where you can explore amazing armour, weapons and a statue of Queen Victoria. Visit St George’s Hall, which was used for banquets for up to 162 people, with sparkling chandeliers and ceilings beautifully covered in painted shields. Every room is spectacular and full of history, so make sure to take your time to look around.

Windsor Castle has so much to offer. Why not spend the morning exploring the castle and take a stroll around Windsor itself? There is so much architecture to discover and admire.

 

Opening hours
March – October
Monday to Sunday: 09:30 - 17:30
November - February
Monday to Sunday: 09:45 - 16:15
The Castle is closed on 14th April, 25th & 26th December and during Royal visits. Closures can happen, so please double check to ensure the Castle is not closed when you plan to visit.
Pricing
Our Prices
Adults from £20.50
Kids from £12.00
Address
Windsor
Berkshire
SL4 1NJ
England
Contact details
0303 123 7304
www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/windsorcastle



 

2. Scenic Thames Riverboat Cruise

Sit back, relax and enjoy going through the beautiful sights of Windsor. On the Thames Riverboat Cruise, you will learn all about the local sights, wildlife and history along with a printed leaflet.

Windsor Castle

After sightseeing around Windsor, why not go on a 40 minute river cruise from Windsor along the Thames River? You will see fantastic landmarks and sights including Windsor Castle, String Bridge, Royal Windsor Racecourse, Brunel’s Bow and Eton College Chapel – so be sure to have your camera ready.

 

Departure point
Boats depart from Windsor Promenade, within easy walking distance of Windsor Castle, the Town Centre, the car parks and the railway stations.
Departure time
Boats depart frequently throughout the day from 10.00 until 17.00. Boats depart at least every 30 minutes (i.e. 10.00, 10.30, 11.00, 11.30 etc) but on busy days the service is increased to cater for demand Duration 40 minutes (approx.)
Contact and booking details
www.viator.com/tours/Windsor-and-Eton/Scenic-Thames-Riverboat-Return-Journey-from-Windsor


 

3. Fudge Kitchen

Fudge Kitchen is located in the heart of Windsor, just opposite Windsor Castle. You won’t miss it, as it’s a quirky building full of traditional, delicious fudge. You will be greeted with friendly staff wearing old-fashioned clothing, all knowledgeable about fudge and its history. Why not step inside and try some free samples for yourself? If you love fudge, you won’t want to miss out.

Windsor gift ideas www.LoveYourLocation.co.uk

On your visit, you will learn that Michigan in America is one of the fudge making kitchens of the world and has over fourteen fudge shops in just two streets - Most of the shops dating back to the 19th century. The fudge we make in England today is inspired by this heritage, using the same famous recipes dating back to 1830. The fudge is also made using the same utensils and marble slabs that were used many years ago.

The Fudge Kitchen is full of charm and will take you back in time, all the way back to 1983. When exploring the fudge making area, you’ll notice a beautiful backdrop of Windsor Castle – it is a must visit when you visit the city of Windsor.

 

Address
20 Thames Street
Windsor
SL4 1PL
England
Contact details
01753 862440
www.fudgekitchen.co.uk/find-us/shops/windsor-fudge-kitchen-shop

 


 

4. Theatre Royal Windsor 

This traditional theatre nestles by Windsor Castle and is the only producing theatre to operate all year round in England. It is popular with locals and tourists and has a gained a wonderful reputation for the quality of its productions and stands one of England’s most popular and leading theatres.

Things to see and do in Windsor

Theatre Royal continues to succeed, as it launches a range of schemes for businesses and regular theatre visitors. They also offer a variety of shows, ranging from the classics and traditional pantomimes.

 

Opening times
Evening shows start at 8pm, Saturday matinees at 4.45pm and Thursday matinees at 2.30pm unless otherwise stated. Sunday concerts are often running. 
Address
32 Thames Street
Windsor
SL4 1PS
England
Contact details
01753 853888
www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

 


 

5. St George's Chapel

St George’ Chapel is well known for its finest gothic architecture. It is popular with both locals and visitors, where they can explore and learn all about the chapel’s history. The chapel is the spiritual home of the Oder of the Garter, the senior order of British Chivalry established in 1348 by Edward III.
Berkshire art and gifts The stunning chapel stands within the walls of Windsor Castle and is a spectacular example of historic architecture. Don’t leave without seeing the State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls House and the Drawings Gallery at the castle.

 

Opening times
The Chapel is open only for Services on Sundays.
Address
St George’s Chapel
Windsor
Windsor Castle
Windsor
SL4 1NJ
Contact details
020 7766 7304
www.stgeorges-windsor.org

 


 

Top 5 kid’s activities

Children will love a weekend in Windsor - especially if they get to visit Legoland Windsor! There are so many family-friendly attractions to keep everyone entertained. 

 


1. Legoland Windsor
Legoland WindsorLegoland is suitable for ages 3-12 - even the adults love Lego! There is so much to discover and explore at the park, from Lego Driving School to Lego Star Wars – Make sure you look around the Miniland Model Display.If your children love everything Lego, they’ll love Legoland Windsor! There are over 55 fun rides and attractions to keep the children entertained, including fun characters and objects made out of Lego! The excitement will start as soon as you arrive. On your Lego adventure, see if they can spot popular characters such as superheroes, Doctor Who and other amazing characters.

So if you love Lego, don’t miss out on a fun-filled day out at Lego Windsor!

 

Opening hours
Summer 10:00 - 18:00
Opening hours are subject to change. Please call the attraction directly to avoid disappointment.
Pricing
Green Day: £45.00
Yellow Day: £50.00
Blue Day: £60.00
Christmas Event: £35.00
Address
Winkfield Road
Windsor
Berkshire
SL4 4AY
England
Contact details
0871 2222 001
www.legoland.co.uk

 


 

2.  The Living Rainforest
The Living Rainforest BerkshireIt is home to a variety of animals including birds, butterflies, monkeys, lizards and much more. Children will love to learn all about the animals and the importance of a rain forest’s ecosystem!Experience a rainforest adventure at The Living Rainforest and immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of over 700 amazing species of animals and plants.

After exploring the rainforest, visit the onsite café and relax with food and drink while the children play with their friends in the play area. Children will love a day out at The Living Rainforest, so why not plan a weekend trip to Windsor and discover all the great attractions?

 

Opening hours
Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 17:00
Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Pricing
General Admission
Adults: £10.45
Kids (2-14): £8.45
Concessions: £10.20
Family from £32.80
Last Entry
30 minutes before attraction closes
Address
Hampstead
Norreys
Newbury
Berkshire
RG18 0TN
England
Contact details
01635 202444
www.livingrainforest.org

 


 

3. Hands On Art Adventures

Hands On Art Adventures

 Enjoy an art-filled morning with the kids at Hands On Art Adventures! If they love painting and getting creative, they will love a morning at Art Adventures. 

Hand paint a range of pottery or attend an art course or art workshop! Children and adults alike will love a relaxing morning or afternoon painting. They cater for groups and parties, so the children can bring their friends along. 

Why not explore Windsor after a creative morning? There is so much to see and do, as well as other great attractions to visit. 

Address
42a St Lukes Road
Old Windsor
Windsor
Berkshire
SL4 2QQ
England
Contact details
01753 206 265
www.hands-onartadventures.co.uk

 


 

4. Beale Park
Beale Park WindsorThere is also a fun wildlife park to visit, with gardens home to over 20 species of animals – Children will love meeting all the animals. Beale Park has something to offer all ages as there is an adventure playground for older children and a Little Tikes Outdoor Village for younger children. They will love playing on trikes, police cars and much more.Beale Park is situated by The Thames, making the most of its beautiful backdrop.  It is a great place to visit with the family, why not have a picnic and go on a trail to see the stunning lakes and gardens!

On your visit, don’t forget to go on the miniature train ride that is included in your ticket, along with the amazing Treasured Toys exhibition.

Wildlife, nature and toys - what more could a child want! Perfect for weekend trips and during the school holidays.

 

Opening hours
Low Season (9 February to 31 March & 1 October to 5 November)
Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 16:00
High Season (1 April to 30 September)
Monday to Saturday 10:00 - 18:00
Pricing
High Season (Low Season)
Adult: £10.00 (£7.00)
Senior/Student: £8.50 (£5.50)
Child: £8.00 (£5.00) 
Under 2: Free
Disabled Adult: £5.00 (£4.00)
Disabled Child: £2.50 (£2.00)
Helper: £4.00 (£2.00)
Family: from £29.00 (from £18.00)
Address
Lower Basildon
Reading
Berkshire
RG8 9NH
England
Contact
0870 7777160
www.bealepark.org.uk


 

5. Pinewood Miniature Railway

Pinewood Miniature Railway

Children and adults alike will love a day out to Pinewood Miniature Railway. It has been running for 25 years and is popular with locals and visitors. The railway is located at Pinewood Leisure Centre in Berkshire.

The Miniature Railway is nearly half a mile long, which takes you through a beautiful woodland setting. Children will love a train ride with their friends and family, so why not take them during the school holidays?

There is also a great adventure playground for children to enjoy, as well as a beautiful walk through the woodlands where you can watch the trains travel by.

 

Opening hours
March - October: 3rd Sunday of Every Month 13:30 - 16:00
Pricing
General Admission
Rides: £1.00
Under 3's: Free
Buy 5 rides get a 6th free!
Address
Pinewood Leisure Centre
Old Wokingham Road
Wokingham
Berkshire
RG40 3AQ
England
Contact details
07599 969579
www.pinewoodrailway.co.uk

 


 

Top 5 restaurants in Berkshire

Windsor has a variety of places to eat and drink, offering a wide range of styles and something to suit every budget.

 

 

1. The Oxford Blue

The Oxford Blue Berkshire
www.oxfordbluepub.co.uk
01753 861954
10 Crimp Hill Road
Old Windsor
Windsor
SL4 2QY
England

 


 

2. The Woodspeen

The Woodspeen
www.thewoodspeen.com
01635 265070
Lambourn Road
Woodspeen
Newbury
RG20 8BN
England

 


 

3. The Sushi Maki

The Sushi Maki
www.thesushimaki.co.uk
23 Market Place
Newbury
RG14 5AA
England
01635 551702

 


 

4. Mamara Restaurant

Mamara Restaurant Berkshire
www.marmararestaurant.co.uk
01753 840396
5 Queen Anne's Court
Peascod Street
Windsor
SL4 1DG
England

 


 

5. The Greyhound Free House and Grill

The Greyhound Free House and Grill
www.awtgreyhound.com
0118 972 2227
Gallowstree Road
Peppard Common
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 5HT
England

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