Best attractions and places to see around Old Windsor include a mix of historical landmarks, royal estates, and natural landscapes. This village, once a Saxon royal seat, is situated along the River Thames and borders the expansive Windsor Great Park. The area offers opportunities for exploring ancient sites, enjoying riverside walks, and engaging in outdoor activities. Its historical significance is tied to figures like Edward the Confessor and events such as the sealing of the Magna Carta nearby.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
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Pretty level ride close to the Thames. Only hassel is several 'reduced width' barriers en-route requiring a dismount.
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This junction is a great place to meet up or find your way around the trails and Swinley Forest
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Sick place to ride, loads of trails and the burns are great👌.
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Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, serving as an official residence of the British monarch. It's known for its beautiful architecture, historical significance, and as the venue for royal events and ceremonies.
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more stuff plundered by the British Empire... Originally from Libya! 🤣
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interesting, but you have to walk a little bit
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Old Windsor is rich in history. You can visit the historic Church of Saint Peter and Saint Andrew, which dates back to 1216. Nearby, Runnymede is a significant site where the Magna Carta was sealed, also featuring the Kennedy Memorial. Don't miss the unique Leptis Magna Ruins at Virginia Water, a collection of Roman stones brought from Libya. Of course, the iconic Windsor Castle, an 11th-century royal palace, is just two miles upstream.
Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Jubilee River Weir offers tranquil cycleways and paths perfect for walking, cycling, and picnics. Windsor Great Park provides vast green spaces for exploration, and the Windsor Farm Shop is a great stop for local produce. Many of the historical sites like Windsor Castle and the Leptis Magna Ruins are also suitable for family visits.
Old Windsor boasts beautiful natural surroundings. A significant portion of the expansive Windsor Great Park falls within the area, offering numerous walks, a deer park, and ancient oaks. The River Thames forms the eastern boundary, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and scenic towpath walks. The Jubilee River Weir is a tranquil wildlife haven with cycleways, and Cliveden Gardens and Maze, a short distance away, features extensive woodland paths and formal gardens.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Old Windsor offers a variety of activities. Mountain biking is popular at Swinley Forest Mountain Bike Trails, which feature blue and red routes suitable for various skill levels. You can also enjoy walking and cycling along the Jubilee River Weir and the Thames towpath. For more structured routes, explore our guides for Road Cycling Routes, Gravel Biking, and Easy Hikes around Old Windsor.
Yes, Old Windsor and its surroundings offer excellent walking opportunities. Windsor Great Park provides numerous pleasant walks, including routes to the famous Long Walk. The towpath along the River Thames offers scenic, rural charm. For specific routes, you can find several easy hikes around Old Windsor, including loops within Windsor Great Park like Primrose Hill and routes to The Copper Horse.
Old Windsor's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. For outdoor activities like cycling at Swinley Forest Mountain Bike Trails, the firm surface and good drainage make it suitable even in winter. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for riverside walks and exploring gardens like Cliveden. Historical sites like Windsor Castle have regular opening hours, though it's always wise to check their official website for current times and ticket information.
The Windsor Farm Shop, located on the outskirts of Old Windsor, is an excellent place to find locally-sourced goods and produce directly from the Royal Estates and Windsor Great Park. It offers a taste of the region's agricultural heritage.
Windsor Castle is generally open from 10 am to 5 pm, with the last admission at 4 pm. Tickets typically cost around £23.50. For the most up-to-date information on opening times, ticket prices, and booking, it is recommended to visit the official Royal Collection Trust website.
Old Windsor holds significant historical importance as once the oldest Saxon town in Berkshire and a seat of Edward the Confessor. Archaeological evidence points to a Saxon Royal Palace Site, known as Kingsbury, with finds housed at Reading Museum. The village's history is deeply intertwined with the growth of Windsor Castle, which became a major influence after 1100.
Yes, the Jubilee River Weir features several miles of grit cycleways, making it a popular spot for cycling. It's a tranquil wildlife haven and offers a beautiful escape. While the paths are generally wide gravel, they can be quite flinty, so a hybrid bike is often recommended for comfort.
The Leptis Magna Ruins at Virginia Water are a fascinating man-made historical site. They were constructed in 1816 from real Roman stones controversially brought from the ancient city of Leptis Magna in Libya. These columns, pedestals, and slabs were gifted to George IV and restored in 2009, offering a unique glimpse into Roman architecture in an unexpected setting.
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. Near Windsor Castle, there are eateries like Cinnamon Cafe and others opposite the castle. Swinley Forest Mountain Bike Trails has a cafe and bike shop at the trail centre. Additionally, the Windsor Farm Shop offers a cafe, and you can find various pubs and cafes within Old Windsor village and nearby towns.


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