The 8 best things to do in Windsor

What is it? A kids’ theme park with attractions based around those ubiquitous knobbly plastic bricks. You’ll find rides, games, and plenty of opportunities for budding master builders to get stuck in.

Why go? Because everything is awesome at Legoland! There’s a zone for whatever the kids are into – knights, pirates, Star Wars, and so much more – and grown-ups will be blown away by the intricate Lego creations displayed everywhere. Make a weekend of it with a stay at one of two Lego-themed hotels on site.

What is it? The weekend gaff of much-missed Queen Elizabeth II and the venue for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding. It was founded by William the Conqueror in the eleventh century and is now the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world.

Why go? To immerse yourself in royal history and be dazzled by the lavishly gilded interiors. Don’t miss Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, a miniature replica of a 1920s mansion complete with electricity and running water.

What is it? An independent brewery set up in 2010 by four friends who wanted to make beer Windsor’s top attraction. They’re certainly going about it the right way, with more than 20 local pubs now selling their booze.

Why go? For a chance to taste signature beers, like Guardsman, Treason, and Father Thames, and find out how they’re made on a lively tour of the brewery. Windsor & Eton Brewery also hosts music, comedy, and street food events.

What is it? A friendly community café at the studio of 4Motion Dance Theatre, a professional dance company that also offers movement, fitness, and wellbeing classes. The Loading Bay Café is only open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, unless there’s an event on, so check before you trek.

Why go? For great coffee, chilled vibes, and an antidote to the touristy pit stops that populate much of Windsor. Plus, there’s an eclectic programme of events that encompasses daytime and evening clubbing, live music, and a monthly street food market.

What is it? This renovated boutique is no ordinary charity shop. It only sells vintage goods—fashion, accessories, homeware, and memorabilia—donated by local people, with profits going towards funding a hospice in Windsor.

Why go? To play dress-up with a rail of retro clothes or lose yourself rummaging through a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind items. The award-winning staff at Thames Hospice Vintage & Retro know their stuff and are happy to help you find that elusive gem, either on-site or in the charity’s online shop.

What is it? A sprawling, 4,800-acre green space with many royal connections like The Long Walk, a three-mile-long, tree-lined thoroughfare that stretches from the Copper Horse statue of George III to Windsor Castle.

Why go? To hang out with the people-friendly red deer that roam the park – they like having their photo taken (apparently). Other top spots in Windsor Great Park are the shimmering waterfall at Virginia Water and The Savill Garden, which is full of beautiful rare plants.

What is it? A seriously swanky French restaurant with outstanding cooking, it is the only restaurant outside France to retain three Michelin stars for almost 40 years.

Why go? The Waterside Inn is in Bray, a 13-minute drive from the heart of Windsor, but its dreamy Thameside views and three Michelin stars make it worth the trip. Expect a decadently French menu in comfortingly cosy English surroundings.

What is it? Windsor’s twin town across the Thames is dominated by Eton College, the boys’ school for the wealthy where many Tories – and a bunch of British actors – were educated. 

Why go? To browse the antique shops and art galleries that line Eton’s historic high street, to feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you see schoolboys in tailcoats walking through town, and, if you’re there on a Sunday afternoon, to visit the College’s three fascinating museums.