The Long Walk

A Royal Vision Takes Shape

The Long Walk emerged from the ambitious vision of King Charles II in the late 17th century, who sought to transform Windsor Castle's surroundings into a landscape rivaling the grandeur of continental European estates. Inspired by the formal gardens of Versailles, Charles II commissioned the creation of a straight ceremonial avenue stretching southward from the castle. The initial planting of the double avenue of elm trees began in 1680, with the project completed by 1685. The original design comprised 1,652 trees placed 30 feet apart in each direction, creating a striking formal approach that emphasized the majesty of the castle and provided a scenic vista for royal residents and visitors alike. The celebrated landscape architect André Le Nôtre, famed for his work at Versailles, influenced the design principles of straight lines, carefully manicured lawns, and symmetrical tree arrangements that characterize the avenue.

Evolving Through the Centuries

The Long Walk has undergone significant transformations since its inception. Queen Anne enhanced the avenue in 1710 by adding a central carriageway, creating a more functional ceremonial route. By the early 20th century, many of the original elm trees required replacement. Following an outbreak of elm disease during World War II, the northern section was felled in 1943, with replanting completed by February 1946. The avenue as it exists today features London Plane and Horse Chestnut trees, which were retained after initial thinning in the 1970s. The avenue stretches approximately 2.65 miles from the George IV Gateway at Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse statue atop Snow Hill, offering visitors an immersive journey through carefully preserved landscape design.

The Copper Horse and Panoramic Vistas

At the southern terminus of the Long Walk stands the iconic Copper Horse, an impressive equestrian statue of King George III erected in 1831. Sculpted by Sir Richard Westmacott, the statue commemorates the monarch's significant contributions to Windsor Great Park and his interest in agriculture and land improvement, earning him the affectionate title "Farmer George." The statue serves as both a fitting tribute and a stunning focal point for those journeying along the avenue. Snow Hill, where the statue stands, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and Windsor Great Park, providing a sense of accomplishment for those completing the full walk. The vista from this vantage point encapsulates the grandeur that Charles II envisioned when he first conceived this ceremonial route.

A Stage for Royal Pageantry

Throughout its history, the Long Walk has served as the backdrop for momentous royal occasions and public celebrations. King George III frequently strolled the avenue with his family, while Queen Victoria enjoyed carriage rides along its length. The avenue has hosted grand processions, state visits, and ceremonial parades that have cemented its place in British cultural heritage. In 2018, the Long Walk became the setting for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding carriage procession following their ceremony at St. George's Chapel, with thousands of well-wishers lining the route. Most poignantly, in April 2022, the Long Walk served as the final ceremonial route for Queen Elizabeth II's coffin, transported from London to Windsor Castle following her state funeral. The procession honored the longest-reigning monarch in British history, with thousands of mourners lining the avenue to pay their respects, demonstrating the enduring significance of this historic pathway.

Windsor Great Park and the Deer Park

The Long Walk passes through the Deer Park, which was established over 70 years ago and is home to approximately 500 Red Deer descended from animals introduced in 1979. The surrounding Windsor Great Park contains one of the largest populations of ancient oak trees in northern Europe, with some specimens dating back to the Norman period. Visitors following the Long Walk experience not only architectural and historical grandeur but also natural beauty, encountering deer in their native habitat and ancient woodland that has witnessed centuries of royal hunts and pageantry. The park's landscape tells the story of Windsor's evolution from a Norman hunting forest to a carefully curated royal estate open to public enjoyment.

A Living Monument to British Heritage

The Long Walk stands as a symbol of continuity and tradition, reflecting the enduring legacy of the British monarchy and its connection to the land. As a historic and cultural landmark, it embodies values of preservation, beauty, and public accessibility. The avenue welcomes visitors from around the world to experience the same vistas that have inspired royalty for over three centuries. Whether walked in solitude or as part of a grand procession, the Long Walk remains a cherished part of Windsor Castle's heritage, connecting past and present through its magnificent tree-lined expanse.