Windsor & Royal Borough Museum: A Journey Through Local Heritage
Explore Windsor’s rich heritage through thousands of artifacts and stories within the historic Guildhall’s welcoming museum.
Located within the historic Windsor Guildhall, the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum offers visitors a rich exploration of the Royal Borough’s history. The museum showcases over 13,000 artifacts ranging from prehistoric times to World War II, including a 100,000-year-old mammoth tusk and a model of the Hawker Hurricane aircraft designed by Windsor-born Sir Sydney Camm. Family-friendly and interactive, it features an audio trail with stories from local residents and occasional guided tours of the Guildhall’s splendid rooms.
A brief summary to Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
- & Royal Borough Museum, 51 High St, Windsor, SL4 1LR, GB
- +441628685686
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Tuesday or Wednesday between 10am and 4pm to experience the full range of exhibits and guided tours.
- Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Windsor Castle and enjoy the historic town centre.
- Check the museum’s website or contact ahead to confirm any special events or guided tour availability.
- Use nearby public car parks such as Victoria Street or King Edward Court, as parking at the Guildhall is not available.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From London Paddington, take a train to Slough, then transfer to Windsor & Eton Central station. The journey typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. From the station, it is a 5-minute walk to the museum. Tickets cost approximately £15-£25 return.
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Bus
Local buses serve Windsor town centre from surrounding areas, with routes stopping near the Guildhall. Bus travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on origin. Single fares generally range from £2 to £5. Check local timetables for schedules and accessibility.
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Car
Driving to Windsor is straightforward via the M4 (junction 6) or M3 (junction 3). Several public car parks are available in the town centre, including Victoria Street and King Edward Court. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. The museum itself has no dedicated parking.
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Walking
If staying nearby, the museum is an easy 10 to 15-minute walk from Windsor Castle and the town centre. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Windsor & Royal Borough Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
A Historic Home for Local Stories
Nestled on the ground floor of the Grade I listed Windsor Guildhall, the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum occupies a building steeped in civic and royal history. The Guildhall itself, with its elegant architecture and portraits of monarchs dating back to Elizabeth I, creates a fitting backdrop for the museum’s collection. Established in 1951 during the Festival of Britain, the museum has grown to become a custodian of the Royal Borough’s heritage, preserving and showcasing artifacts that narrate the story of Windsor and its surrounding areas.Vast and Varied Collections
The museum’s collection exceeds 13,000 items, spanning prehistoric flints, Roman tiles, and personal letters from the First World War. Highlights include a 100,000-year-old mammoth tusk and a detailed model of the Hawker Hurricane, the iconic fighter plane designed by local aviation pioneer Sir Sydney Camm. The exhibits are divided into thematic categories such as military history, working life, childhood, architecture, and archaeology, offering a comprehensive view of the area’s past. Many items are carefully stored and continuously catalogued, with an ongoing digitisation project making the collection increasingly accessible online.Engaging Visitor Experience
Designed to be family-friendly and interactive, the museum features an audio trail where local residents share personal stories that bring the borough’s history to life. Visitors can explore displays that combine traditional artifacts with modern storytelling techniques. Guided tours of the Guildhall’s historic rooms are available on select days, providing insight into Windsor’s civic heritage and royal connections. The museum also encourages community participation through projects like the Royal Borough Memory Box, which collects contemporary items reflecting life during the COVID-19 pandemic.Community and Volunteer Spirit
The museum thrives on the enthusiasm of volunteers and the support of the Friends of Windsor & Royal Borough Museum. Volunteers assist in many areas, from cataloguing collections to hosting events, helping to maintain the museum as a vibrant cultural hub. The institution also maintains an active presence on social media platforms and offers virtual content for those unable to visit in person.Accessibility and Practical Information
Open to the public on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am to 4pm, the museum offers free admission. It is wheelchair accessible, with a stair lift available for Guildhall tours upon request. The museum is located a short walk from Windsor & Eton Central and Riverside train stations, with several nearby car parks. Visitors can enjoy the museum as part of a broader exploration of Windsor’s historic town centre, including nearby attractions such as Windsor Castle.Preserving a Royal Borough Legacy
Windsor & Royal Borough Museum stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the area, preserving stories and artifacts that span thousands of years. Its commitment to education, community engagement, and historical preservation ensures that the legacy of Windsor and its people continues to be celebrated and shared with future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
H. G. Wells White Plaque
0.0 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.1 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
0.1 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
0.2 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
The Curfew Tower
0.2 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
0.2 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
King Edward III Tower
0.3 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
0.3 km
Discover the legacy of WWI hero Lt Col Harry Greenwood at his birthplace marked by a blue plaque in historic Windsor.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
0.3 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
Sydney Camm Memorial
0.8 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Burning Bush
1.1 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Miniland
3.7 km
Explore Miniland at LEGOLAND® Windsor, where famous landmarks are reimagined in stunning LEGO detail, offering a family-friendly adventure for all ages.
King George III & His Horse Statue
4.1 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
Dorney Court
4.9 km
Explore the enchanting Dorney Court, a historical landmark with stunning gardens and rich heritage, perfect for an unforgettable day out.
Unmissable attractions to see
Windsor Guildhall
0.0 km
Historic 17th-century Guildhall in Windsor offering regal wedding ceremonies with royal portraits and elegant event spaces for up to 100 guests.
The Crooked House of Windsor
0.0 km
Discover England’s oldest teahouse with its charming crooked architecture and cozy café atmosphere just steps from Windsor Castle.
Queen Charlotte Street
0.0 km
Discover England’s shortest street, a charming cobblestone lane steeped in history and Victorian elegance, right by Windsor Castle.
Queen Elizabeth II: Windsor memorial drinking fountain
0.1 km
A regal and sustainable tribute to Queen Elizabeth II offering free drinking water in the historic heart of Windsor.
Windsor Parish Church of St John the Baptist
0.1 km
Historic Gothic Revival church in Windsor with rich heritage, artistic treasures, and a welcoming spiritual community near Windsor Castle.
Ancient well
0.2 km
Discover Windsor’s Ancient Well: a tranquil historic landmark nestled near the royal castle, rich with centuries of local heritage and timeless charm.
Soldier's Statue
0.2 km
Explore Windsor's Soldier's Statue, a historic landmark honoring the courage of soldiers amidst the beauty of the city.
Bachelor's Acre
0.2 km
Royal tribute meets family fun in Windsor's cherished town-centre park.
St George's Chapel
0.2 km
Discover the majestic St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, a Gothic masterpiece and royal sanctuary steeped in centuries of British history.
Historical Windsor
0.2 km
Step into Windsor’s rich past and vibrant present on historic Peascod Street, where royal heritage meets charming shopping.
FUZZY BEAR Cocktails & Comedy
0.2 km
Experience vibrant comedy nights and creative cocktails in a unique railway arch venue in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife.
Theatre Royal Windsor
0.2 km
A historic Georgian theatre in the heart of Windsor, staging classic drama, pantomime, and new work in an intimate, ornate auditorium.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
0.2 km
A historic obelisk in Windsor honoring royal jubilees, blending heritage with serene green space at Bachelors Acre.
Escape Experience
0.3 km
Dive into thrilling, family-friendly escape rooms in Windsor with immersive themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
Windsor Castle
0.3 km
Explore Windsor Castle, the historic royal residence, and uncover centuries of British history within its majestic walls and beautiful gardens.
Essential places to dine
Plate at No. 6
0.0 km
An intimate Windsor tapas restaurant serving vibrant Mediterranean small plates in a stylish, open-kitchen setting with al fresco views of Windsor Castle.
Eighteen
0.0 km
Elegant dining on Windsor’s High Street, blending classic charm with modern culinary excellence and warm hospitality.
Leaf At The Castle
0.0 km
Elegant British dining with a botanical touch, steps from Windsor Castle, featuring seasonal menus and a celebrated Royal afternoon tea.
Maison Meejana
0.0 km
Discover authentic Lebanese cuisine in a cozy Windsor setting, blending traditional flavors with modern hospitality near Windsor Castle.
Latino
0.0 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors in a vibrant, spotless setting at the heart of Windsor’s lively dining scene.
1423 China Kitchen
0.0 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors in a historic Windsor setting, blending centuries-old heritage with vibrant Cantonese, Sichuan, and Shanghainese cuisine.
Bluegrass BBQ
0.0 km
Authentic American barbecue flavors served in a lively Windsor setting near the iconic castle.
Clarence Brasserie & Tea Room
0.0 km
A cozy blend of Italian flavors and traditional English tea near Windsor Castle, perfect for relaxed dining and classic afternoon tea.
The Queen Charlotte
0.0 km
A welcoming British pub near Windsor Castle, offering hearty roasts, local ales, and cozy charm in the heart of Windsor.
Long Walk Grill
0.1 km
Cozy Mediterranean dining with stone-baked pizzas and fresh seafood in the heart of historic Windsor’s High Street.
K Kitchen
0.1 km
Discover authentic Korean cuisine with fresh flavors and warm hospitality in Windsor’s charming K Kitchen.
Meat At The Parish
0.1 km
A vibrant steakhouse and cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly dry-aged steaks and a cozy, contemporary atmosphere near Windsor Castle.
The Ivy Windsor
0.1 km
A stylish British brasserie near Windsor Castle, offering classic dishes with modern elegance in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
wagamama windsor
0.1 km
Fresh Asian fusion flavors served in a lively, casual setting opposite Windsor Castle, perfect for sharing and savoring bold tastes.
À la Russe
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and elegant dining just steps from Windsor Castle at À la Russe, a cherished culinary gem on High Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
A Little Present
0.0 km
Explore 'A Little Present' in Windsor - your destination for unique gifts, handcrafted souvenirs, and local treasures to cherish forever.
Great British Gifts
0.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artisan treasures just steps from Windsor Castle at Great British Gifts.
King & Queen Gift Shop
0.0 km
Discover royal-themed gifts and charming souvenirs steps from Windsor Castle at the King & Queen Gift Shop.
House Of Gifts
0.0 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at House Of Gifts, your friendly stop near the castle for memorable keepsakes and affordable treasures.
Glorious Britain
0.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and gifts in the heart of historic Windsor at Glorious Britain gift shop.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.1 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and classic styles at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Windsor’s historic Castle Hill.
Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs
0.1 km
Discover charming and affordable keepsakes at Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs, your perfect stop for memorable treasures near Windsor Castle.
Indelibly Windsor
0.1 km
Discover Windsor’s culture and heritage through unique gifts and expert visitor services at Indelibly Windsor on High Street.
Windsor Royal Station
0.1 km
Independent shopping in a Victorian railway arch at the heart of historic Windsor.
Windsor Wine & Gifts
0.1 km
Discover unique wines and charming gifts in the heart of Windsor, steps from the iconic Windsor Castle and the scenic Thames.
huttons
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Huttons, a charming family-run independent store in the heart of historic Windsor.
Marks and Spencer
0.1 km
A reliable Marks & Spencer department store in central Windsor, offering fashion, homeware and a well-stocked food hall on Peascod Street.
Crew Clothing
0.2 km
Classic British smart casual wear in the heart of historic Windsor, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship.
Mint Velvet Windsor
0.2 km
Discover relaxed glamour and timeless women's fashion at Mint Velvet Windsor, your stylish boutique in Windsor Royal Shopping Centre.
A P Souvenirs & Gifts
0.2 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at A P Souvenirs & Gifts, your convenient stop near Windsor Castle for memorable keepsakes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Shambles
0.0 km
Discover Windsor’s award-winning bar housed in a charmingly tilted historic building, famed for creative cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Prince Harry
0.0 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
The Carpenters Arms
0.0 km
Historic pub in Windsor serving classic British fare and cask ales in a welcoming, artisan-inspired setting near Windsor Castle.
The Horse & Groom
0.0 km
Historic and welcoming English pub opposite Windsor Castle, offering hearty food, local ales, and cosy accommodation in the heart of Windsor.
The Cobbles
0.0 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
0.2 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
All Bar One Windsor
0.2 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
The Corner House
0.2 km
A lively two-floor pub and sports bar in Windsor, offering great drinks, live sports on HD screens, and versatile event spaces.
The Acre
0.3 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Upstairs Windsor
0.3 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
The Two Brewers
0.3 km
Historic 18th-century pub near Windsor Castle offering classic British ales, cozy ambiance, and a charming floral exterior.
La planchette
0.3 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The Sinner Bar
0.3 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
The Piper Art Bar
0.3 km
Discover a vibrant Scottish-themed bar and contemporary art space in the heart of Windsor, offering an extensive whisky selection and eclectic ambiance.
The Royal Windsor
0.3 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
0.2 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Scotch
0.2 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
The Boom
0.2 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
0.3 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Binfield Club
13.9 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Winkers Nightclub
14.7 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Diligence
16.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
19.1 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
The Venue, Bucks
19.1 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
3sixty
23.7 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Popworld Watford
24.2 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
Canvas Bar & Nightclub
24.2 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Q Club
25.4 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
25.5 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Reading Lola Lo
25.6 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Tranquil
- Educational
- Interactive
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
