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Welcome to autumn in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. The days may be getting shorter but there are plenty of things to do and look forward to, particularly in the run up to the busy Christmas events season.
When the seasons change, something magical happens leading to colourful autumnal skies and frosty mornings. In this season of leaves and berries, rising mists and early morning dew, wrap up warm to explore the must-see sites and enjoy the must-go events taking place in and around Windsor.
If you are coming to the Windsor area during September, October or November, here are our top tips to enjoy autumn in Windsor and the Royal Borough. Don't forget to check out our current Special Offers and our regularly-updated events listings!
Is the weather forecast predicting a rainy day in Windsor? Read more about things to do when it's raining.
Traditionally autumn was the time when breweries started brewing again after the warm summer months, using newly-harvested barley and hops. As the nights draw in, toast the arrival of autumn by popping down to the Windsor & Eton Brewery for a brewhouse tour and tasting or for one of their events, such as Oktoberfest or Music Bingo!
Imagine being entertained by royalty in Windsor Castle's Semi-State Rooms, the spectacular and sumptuous private apartments that open to visitors from autumn to spring each year. The additional five rooms that make up the Semi-State Rooms served as the private rooms of George IV in the 19th century and are included in the visitor route at no extra charge.
Visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday when Windsor Castle is closed? Find out about other things to do when you visit Windsor here.
Ascot Carriages and Windsor Great Park's autumn colours
October is the best month to experience gardens and landscapes in their glorious russet, purple, red, orange, and yellow colours. Popular spots are The Savill Garden’s Autumn Wood and The Valley Gardens in Windsor Great Park. The 376-acres of National Trust gardens and parkland at Cliveden sees acers and maples become stars of autumn. Walk down to the river for a River Thames cruise along Cliveden Reach, arguably the loveliest stretch of the river. Or sit back and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride in Windsor Great Park, available from Ascot Carriages (above) and Windsor Carriages on select dates in September, October, and November.
There are some lovely areas in and around Windsor and Maidenhead that have great autumn colour displays, perfect for brisk autumn walks with friends and loved ones.
Read about our five best walks for autumn colour here.
Enjoying the racing at Ascot
The Royal Borough's two popular horse-racing venues host multiple autumn events, with added off-track entertainment to complement the on-course action. Ascot is one of the world’s best known courses, where style and etiquette are a big part of the fun. Royal Windsor sits on an island beside the River Thames with boat transport available from Windsor riverside.
There’s plenty of fun to be had in Windsor and Maidenhead this October half term. The school holidays are a perfect time to visit. The days may be getting shorter but there’s lots to keep you entertained. Fingers crossed for some beautiful, sunny autumn days but there’s a great selection of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from, whatever the weather! From escape rooms and live entertainment to spooky Halloween events and collecting conkers, discover a whole host of fun events and activities taking place during the October half term. Check out our Family Fun page too.
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Art in the Garden at The Savill Garden (image Windsor & Eton PhotoArt)
Autumn is a great time to visit if you are a fan of art and sculpture. Read on for some exhibitions to discover this autumn, and you can also take a look at our top sculptures and artefacts here.
Art in the Garden (above) returns to The Savill Garden, Windsor Great Park this autumn. Set within the 35 acres of colourful gardens, the exhibition combines eye-catching sculpture with horticultural excellence. As you explore The Savill Garden you'll encounter sculptures in varying styles, subject and materials; all inspired by the natural world. Event runs 11 September to 29 October 2024.
In the tiny former Methodist Chapel in the pretty riverside town of Cookham, discover the wonderful art of the characterful Stanley Spencer, considered one of the greatest British painters of the 20th century. The Stanley Spencer Gallery has two exhibitions a year: summer and winter. Why not visit this hidden gem for yourself?
Bonfire Night falls on 5 November. Check out the spectacular firework displays lighting up the skies in the Royal Borough. Venues include Ascot Racecourse and Royal Windsor Racecourse.
Guards marching into Windsor Castle (image Windsor & Eton PhotoArt)
Check out our guide to free things to do in the Windsor area including watching the guard march, enjoying the river and visiting our museums.
Discover three fascinating Eton museums and galleries open free of charge on Sunday afternoons: the Natural History Museum, the Museum of Eton Life (also open Saturday afternoons) and the Museum of Antiquities.
Windsor Guildhall is home to the free Windsor & Royal Borough Museum.
We want you to enjoy every moment of your stay in the Windsor and Maidenhead area, however you like to be entertained! With superb art centres, a bustling theatre and plenty of venues hosting exceptional live entertainment, read our top tips to an amusing autumn.
The turning on of the Christmas lights will get everybody into the yuletide spirit! November's light switch on events in the Windsor, Eton and Maidenhead area mark the start of a whole host of fun Christmas events for all the family.
Follow a dazzlingly re-imagined trail and new installations through woodland awash with colourful mythical creatures as the sparkles of fireflies, luminous beacons and dancing fairies blaze the way, and the lake comes alive with flood-lit fountains and glimmering reflections. Windsor Great Park Illuminated runs 15 November 2024 to 4 January 2025; book your tickets now!
Great Fosters Suite
There’s so much to see and do in the area, why not turn your day visit into a relaxing short break? Visit our accommodation pages to discover a huge range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from five star spa retreats to cosy and comfortable bed and breakfasts and self-catering accommodation. Visit our Special Offers pages to check out deals on offer from our accommodation providers.
Visit our online shop where you can book tickets in advance to many of our top autumn attractions and events.
Search What’s On for all the latest event information.
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