Attractions in the Windsor area

Discover world famous landmarks, family friendly days out and hidden gems across Windsor, Maidenhead and Ascot.

The Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead is home to an outstanding collection of attractions that appeal to every type of visitor. Whether you're planning a day trip, a family adventure, or a relaxing short break, you’ll find a unique mix of history, culture, outdoor spaces and exciting days out. This guide showcases the very best of the area, from iconic royal landmarks and top attractions to local treasures waiting to be explored. Each section has been carefully crafted to help visitors plan their perfect stay and make the most of everything the Royal Borough has to offer.

Go Ape

Family Friendly Attractions

Families visiting the Royal Borough will discover an exceptional mix of fun packed, family friendly attractions suitable for all ages. From imaginative theme parks to hands on museums and open air adventures like Go Ape, there’s no shortage of ways to make lasting memories. The world famous LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort, one of the region’s most popular family attractions, invites younger visitors to immerse themselves in a colourful world of creativity and playful discovery. With over 55 rides, shows and interactive experiences, families can easily fill a full day, exploring themed areas, brick built worlds and gentle rides designed for younger guests. It remains one of the UK’s leading days out for children and a must visit highlight for those staying in Windsor.

You’ll also find a range of smaller, child-friendly hidden gems across the Royal Borough that add even more variety to your itinerary. The Eton College Natural History Museum, Berkshire’s only dedicated natural history museum, is perfect for curious young explorers and offers free Sunday visits. Meanwhile, Windsor & the Royal Borough Museum, located inside the historic Windsor Guildhall, provides accessible, family focused exhibitions that help younger visitors learn about local history in an enjoyable, interactive way. Combined with nearby riverside walks, play areas and special seasonal events, the borough offers endless opportunities for families seeking fun, learning and adventure.

Windsor Castle Guards. Credit: © Royal Collection Enterprises Limited 2026 | Royal Collection Trust 

Historic Attractions

With a history stretching back over a thousand years, the Royal Borough is home to some of the most significant historic attractions in the UK, including landmarks recognised around the world. At the heart of Windsor stands the magnificent Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and one of the official residences of His Majesty The King. A visit here offers guests the chance to walk in the footsteps of monarchs, admire extraordinary architecture and witness the splendour of St George’s Chapel. Visitors also have the unique opportunity to experience the ceremonial splendour of the Windsor Guard March & Changing the Guard, a quintessentially British tradition that adds colour and pageantry to any day trip.

Beyond the Castle, the borough boasts an exceptional collection of historic houses, royal estates and architectural gems. Uncover the charm of Dorney Court, a stunning Tudor manor renowned as one of the area’s most enchanting hidden gems. Wander through the beautifully designed landscapes of The Savill Garden, one of Britain’s finest ornamental gardens.  Or explore the exquisite gardens and grand interiors of Cliveden, a stately home overlooking the River Thames with a rich and intriguing heritage and now run as the luxury Cliveden Hotel. For those who prefer guided experiences, historic guided tours of Windsor provide deeper insights into the area’s long standing royal connections, architectural treasures and stories from centuries past.

Windsor Guildhall, image Jodie Humphries

Museums

The Royal Borough offers a diverse collection of museums that celebrate everything from local heritage and natural history to aviation and culture. These museums provide a fascinating way to deepen your understanding of the area, with exhibitions that appeal to both casual visitors and committed history enthusiasts. The Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, housed inside the iconic Windsor Guildhall, presents an accessible and engaging look at the region’s past, complete with displays that explore royal events, civic history and historical objects uncovered from around the borough. Windsor Guildhall itself is a notable landmark, famously hosting royal weddings and significant civic moments.

Just a short distance away, the Maidenhead Heritage Centre offers a captivating journey through local history, featuring exhibitions that include its popular Spitfire simulator, Roman artefacts and displays of everyday life in the town through time. Visitors can also enjoy the distinctive trio of museums at Eton College, open free of charge on Sunday afternoons: the Natural History Museum, the Museum of Eton Life and the Museum of Antiquities. Together they provide a well-rounded cultural experience, combining education, curiosity and regional identity – making the Royal Borough a rich destination for anyone wanting to learn more about this remarkable part of Berkshire.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are an excellent way to uncover more of the Royal Borough’s stories, secrets and scenery. Beer lovers will relish a tour of Windsor & Eton Brewery and enjoy tastings on the way! Visitors to the town can explore Windsor’s charming streets and historic corners on a variety of expert-led guided tours that reveal centuries of royal tradition, architectural highlights and surprising local tales. Themed walking tours range from heritage-focused itineraries to more general introductions, each offering a deeper connection to the town’s remarkable past. Guests can also download our Heritage Walking Trail, or take a look at The Eton Walkway and The Queen's Walkway, self-guided options that are ideal for visitors who prefer to explore at their own pace while still enjoying a well structured route.

To discover even more of the region, hop aboard an open top bus tour with Golden Tours, providing panoramic views of Windsor Castle, Eton and the surrounding area. Other unique touring options include horse drawn carriage rides, available on the Long Walk and through the sweeping landscapes of Windsor Great Park, allowing visitors to enjoy the royal countryside in a traditional and scenic way. Together, these guided experiences give guests a comprehensive introduction to the borough’s history, natural beauty and cultural atmosphere, making them a memorable addition to any visit.

On board The Boat Hire Company's Fringilla

Outdoor Attractions

The Royal Borough is renowned for its impressive outdoor attractions, offering visitors a wide range of open spaces, natural landscapes and riverside experiences. One of the most iconic outdoor locations in the region is Windsor Great Park, a vast expanse of parkland that features walking routes, formal gardens and wide open views that stretch across centuries of heritage. Visitors can enjoy peaceful lakeside strolls, woodland trails or picnic spots surrounded by wildlife. The park is also dog friendly, making it an excellent choice for those exploring with four legged companions. For keen walkers, the Thames Path presents 20 miles of scenic riverside routes within the Royal Borough, offering tranquil views and access to picturesque towns and villages along the water.

Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy a wide choice of river-based activities, with opportunities for boating, kayaking and leisurely cruises along the River Thames. The relaxed pace of the river provides a refreshing way to experience the borough from a different perspective. Outdoor attractions also include wide open countryside, nearby nature reserves and spacious gardens such as The Savill Garden and Cliveden, which combine horticultural beauty with historical significance. Whether you're seeking peaceful moments in nature or active exploration, the borough’s parks, gardens and outdoor spaces offer something for everyone.

Indoor Attractions

For visitors seeking indoor experiences – especially on rainy days – the Royal Borough offers a rich variety of cultural venues, entertainment spaces and heritage sites. Indoor attractions include the area’s many museums, but also extend to unique spaces such as the historic Windsor Guildhall, where visitors can step inside one of Windsor’s most recognisable civic buildings. Many attractions across the borough offer year round indoor experiences that highlight art, heritage, science and local stories, ensuring that there is always something to enjoy regardless of the weather.

Indoor attractions also include galleries – including the Stanley Spencer Gallery and Eton College's Verey Gallery – performances and seasonal workshops that help bring local culture to life. Many venues host temporary exhibitions or themed events that make each visit feel fresh and engaging. Additionally, indoor spaces across Windsor and Maidenhead provide opportunities to relax, learn, and enjoy immersive experiences that complement visits to the area’s many outdoor highlights. Whether exploring with children, friends or as part of a couple’s getaway, you’ll find a wealth of indoor options to enrich your stay in the Royal Borough.

Bray Cottages

Places to Stay

With so much to see and do across Windsor, Maidenhead and Ascot, many visitors choose to extend their stay and enjoy a night or two in the Royal Borough. The area offers a diverse selection of places to stay, ranging from luxurious hotels and riverside retreats to cosy guest accommodation, boutique properties and countryside inns. Each accommodation option provides convenient access to the borough’s top attractions, making it easy to combine sightseeing, relaxation and memorable experiences. Whether you're seeking modern comfort, traditional character or family friendly convenience, the Royal Borough has a choice of stays to suit every traveller.

Visitors can browse the full range of accommodation on our official tourism website, where you’ll find options including self catering cottages, serviced apartments, guest accommodation, hotels, and a riverside camping site. Many properties are ideally positioned for visits to Windsor Castle, Ascot Racecourse, Royal Windsor Racecourse, Windsor Great Park, and the area’s many towns and villages. Staying overnight allows visitors to explore more attractions at a relaxed pace, enjoy local dining and make the most of everything the borough has to offer – turning a simple day trip into a memorable short break.