Picture this: Strolling along the picturesque River Thames, admiring the breathtaking Windsor Castle, and immersing yourself in the rich history and charm that the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead area has to offer.
For business travellers seeking a regal escape, there are countless reasons why extending your stay in this enchanting corner of England can transform your trip into an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will delve into the alluring attractions and undeniably royal charm that should compel business visitors to linger longer in the area.
So, why not swap the boardroom for a leisurely stay? Embrace the trend of blending business and leisure and get ready to experience a whole new way of travel. With hotels offering tailored services, flexible workspaces, and a range of amenities, you can enjoy the best of both worlds during your next business trip.
Why stay longer?
The line between business and leisure is becoming increasingly blurred, and hotels are embracing this trend. Whether you're a corporate executive or a VIP, you can now extend your work trip to include family time, solo travel, or simply an extended stay to explore the area. Not only can blending business and leisure travel be enjoyable, but it can also be cost-effective. Many companies offer subsidies for travel expenses, which means that your trip could be partially or fully covered. By bringing friends and family along, you can enjoy their company and create lasting memories, all while making the most of your travel budget.
Jet lag can often be a downside of business travel, but blending leisure into your trip can help you overcome this. By adding a few extra days to your stay, you can give yourself time to adjust to the new time zone and recover from a long journey. Use this time to relax, pamper yourself, and recharge before heading back to your regular routine.
Start with your hotel
One of the biggest benefits of blending business and leisure travel is the opportunity to get to know a location better. Instead of rushing in and out for meetings, you can spend more time exploring the area, immersing yourself in the local culture, and discovering hidden gems. Hotels with concierge services and local recommendations will help you get tickets for attractions, shows, and transportation, making your stay even more convenient.
Through partnership with VisitWindsor’s Concierge Scheme, a number of local hotels can provide tickets for attractions and events from their reception desks. The teams are well-informed on what’s on to give great advice to visitors. From tour packages to pre-planned itineraries, these hotels will help you make the most of your leisure time. Partner hotels in central Windsor include the Sir Christopher Wren Hotel & Spa, The Castle Hotel Windsor and the Macdonald Windsor Hotel. The Royal Windsor Information Centre team can also help you source and book events and trips.
Here are a few outings we can suggest to add leisure to your business itinerary.
Not to be missed
Top of anyone’s wish list has to be a visit to Windsor Castle to take a journey through 1,000 years of royal history. See the baroque State Apartments, containing some of the most important works of art in the Royal Collection. Take in the splendour of St George's Chapel, the burial place of 11 monarchs including Queen Elizabeth II, Henry VIII and Charles I and one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England. Visit the Windsor Guildhall - This Grade 1 listed historic building is in a unique setting a short walk from the castle. His Majesty King Charles III married Queen Camilla at the Windsor Guildhall in April 2005 and it also hosted the civil partnership ceremony of Sir Elton John and David Furnish on the first day the ceremonies became legal in England and Wales. Drop into the Visitor Information Centre downstairs from the Guildhall for a chat about what’s on offer while you’re in the area and for a tour of the Guildhall.
For a slice of evening culture
Theatre Royal Windsor - The Edwardian theatre sits directly across from the Castle and features an eclectic programme of plays, musicals, light opera and live music. The Old Court - a hothouse for movies, live music, theatre, dance and exhibitions. The building was originally Windsor’s police station, magistrates’ court and fire station from 1907 to 1966. The Old Ticket Hall - Once the original ticket office for the Riverside train station in Windsor. The quirky Grade II listed building still boasts many of its original features and is dedicated to live music five days a week.
For a riverside view
Depending on your appetite for adventure, or preference for relaxation, there are self-hire, self-drive launches, canoe and kayaking experiences, large passenger cruise boats operating at Windsor, Runnymede, and Maidenhead, vintage launches along Cliveden Reach, electric boats to skipper and paddleboards to master, or sit back in a private hire charter boat for a super stylish time afloat. Most of these experiences are available with or without accompanying picnics.
For a view from the top deck hop aboard Golden Tours Windsor. This open-top, open-air sightseeing bus tours around the main landmarks of Windsor and Eton. Valid to hop-on, hop-off for 24 hours, the route passes the Royal Farm Shop and gives a different perspective of The Long Walk and Windsor Castle.
For equine enthusiasts
Open-air horse-drawn carriage rides are a perfect way to experience the stunning natural beauty of Windsor Great Park. Starting from Windsor Town Centre (Windsor Carriages) or the Savill Garden visitor centre (Ascot Carriages), rides operate on selected days throughout the year or by private arrangement. Settle in and leave navigating in the capable hands of experienced drivers.
Ascot Racecourse is home to the famous Royal Ascot and has racing throughout the year. It is a wonderful celebration of style, social occasion and sport. Pick an enclosure, check the required dress code, and select from multiple restaurant and hospitality packages. Try your luck with a flutter and enjoy the infectious roar of the crowd cheering their favourites on the home straight.
Royal Windsor Racecourse traditionally hosts Monday race-meetings and theme days run throughout the summer season at Rays Meadow, the island in the River Thames. This is one of only two figure-of-eight courses in the UK and also one where it is possible to arrive by boat – combining two alfresco experiences in one.
Guards Polo Club is Europe’s largest polo club and visitors are welcome to attend matches throughout the April to September season. Watch the considerable skills of ponies and riders. Bring a picnic, choose from local catering units or treat yourself to a hospitality package at a ticketed event.
For foodies
Indulge in the Royal Borough’s vibrant food scene, where culinary delights are aplenty. From traditional English pubs serving savoury classics to Michelin-starred restaurants offering gourmet experiences, the borough caters to all tastes and occasions. Extend your stay and savour the flavours of local produce, sample fine wines, and indulge in a unique blend of traditional and contemporary cuisine. Choose from a Wine Tasting at the Old Butcher’s Wine Cellar, Cookham, a brewery tour at Windsor & Eton Brewery, chocolate making at Dr Choc’s Windsor Chocolate Factory or a Cocktail Masterclass at All Bar One, Windsor Royal Station.
With its regal history, fascinating landmarks, sprawling green spaces, diverse shopping experiences, and delectable cuisines, the Royal Borough offers a captivating tapestry of experiences that cannot be unravelled in a mere few hours. By extending your stay in this enchanting area, business visitors can immerse themselves fully in a world of royal splendour, creating memories that will undoubtedly linger long after returning home. So, embrace the allure of Windsor and surrounds, allow the magic to sweep you away, and extend your stay to truly experience all that this remarkable destination has to offer.
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