Frogmore Cottage: A Historic Royal Retreat in Windsor
Historic royal retreat nestled in Windsor’s Frogmore Estate, blending serene gardens with centuries of British monarchy heritage.
Frogmore Cottage, nestled within the Frogmore Estate in Windsor, Berkshire, is a historic royal residence built in 1801 by Queen Charlotte. Originally a refuge for the royal family, it has housed notable figures including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The cottage is part of the Crown Estate and sits near Frogmore House and Windsor Castle, surrounded by serene gardens and rich royal history.
A brief summary to Frogmore Cottage
- Windsor, Windsor, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during limited public opening days, usually in August, to explore Frogmore House and its gardens nearby.
- Guided tours of Frogmore House provide rich historical context and enhance the experience of the estate.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy the tranquil gardens and scenic ponds surrounding the estate.
- Respect the privacy of the cottage as it is a private royal residence and not open for public tours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Taxi
From London Paddington, take a direct train to Windsor & Eton Central (approximately 30–40 minutes). From the station, a taxi ride to Frogmore Cottage takes about 10 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £10 to £15.
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Bus and Walk
Take the Green Line 702 or 703 bus from London Victoria Coach Station to Windsor (travel time around 1 hour 15 minutes). From Windsor town center, it is a 20-minute walk through Home Park to reach Frogmore Cottage. The walk is mostly flat but involves some gravel paths.
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Car
Driving from central London to Frogmore Cottage takes about 50–70 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is limited near the estate; visitors should use designated parking areas in Windsor town center and walk or take a taxi to the site. Note that the Home Park area is private and vehicle access is restricted.
Frogmore Cottage location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Frogmore Cottage
Origins and Royal Beginnings
Frogmore Cottage was constructed in 1801 under the direction of Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, as a quiet retreat within the Frogmore Estate in Windsor. The estate itself lies about half a mile south of Windsor Castle, set in the private Home Park. The cottage was designed to provide respite from the pressures of court life for Queen Charlotte and her unmarried daughters. The name "Frogmore" derives from the marshy, frog-populated grounds near the River Thames on which the estate sits. Originally known as Double Garden Cottage, it was built for a modest sum and served as a peaceful countryside escape from the bustle of royal duties.Historical Residents and Royal Connections
Over the centuries, Frogmore Cottage has been home to a variety of royal figures and guests. Queen Victoria’s mother, the Duchess of Kent, lived nearby at Frogmore House, and the estate has hosted numerous private royal events. In the 20th century, the cottage was used as grace-and-favour housing for estate workers before being refurbished in the 21st century. Most famously, it was gifted by Queen Elizabeth II to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018 as a family home, where they lived prior to stepping back from senior royal duties. The cottage underwent a significant renovation to transform it into a comfortable family residence with four bedrooms and a nursery.Architectural and Garden Features
Frogmore Cottage is a two-storey, stucco-faced building with a simple, early 19th-century design featuring sash windows and a central porch. Its modest elegance contrasts with the grandeur of nearby Frogmore House, a Grade I listed 17th-century country house. The surrounding gardens and grounds are tranquil and scenic, featuring ponds, ancient trees, and manicured lawns. The estate also includes historic structures such as a Gothic summerhouse and a teahouse built for Queen Victoria, adding to the picturesque environment.Significance in Royal Traditions and Events
The Frogmore Estate holds a special place in royal history as a venue for private family occasions and retreats. It was the site of the wedding reception for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018, and previously hosted the wedding reception of Peter Phillips and Autumn Kelly in 2008. The estate has long been a refuge for royals seeking privacy, including Queen Charlotte in the 19th century and King George VI and Queen Elizabeth during their honeymoon. The grounds also contain the Royal Burial Ground, where many royals are interred, underscoring the estate’s solemn historical importance.Modern Use and Public Access
Today, Frogmore Cottage remains part of the Crown Estate and is occasionally occupied by members of the royal family or their associates. While the cottage itself is not generally open to the public, the wider Frogmore Estate and Frogmore House offer limited public access on select days, featuring guided tours that highlight the estate’s rich heritage and serene gardens. Visitors can appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the close proximity to Windsor Castle, making Frogmore a unique blend of royal history and natural beauty.Legacy and Cultural Impact
Frogmore Cottage exemplifies a royal tradition of creating intimate, private spaces away from public scrutiny. Its role as a sanctuary for royal family members across centuries reflects changing royal lifestyles and the enduring importance of personal retreats. The cottage’s recent association with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex brought it renewed international attention, symbolizing both continuity and change within the British monarchy. Surrounded by historic gardens and estate buildings, Frogmore Cottage remains a quietly significant landmark within Windsor’s royal landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
0.7 km
Discover the legacy of WWI hero Lt Col Harry Greenwood at his birthplace marked by a blue plaque in historic Windsor.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
0.8 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
King Edward III Tower
0.9 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
0.9 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
0.9 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
1.0 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
1.0 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
The Curfew Tower
1.1 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
1.1 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
1.2 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Sydney Camm Memorial
1.7 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Burning Bush
2.0 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
King George III & His Horse Statue
3.5 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
Miniland
3.9 km
Explore Miniland at LEGOLAND® Windsor, where famous landmarks are reimagined in stunning LEGO detail, offering a family-friendly adventure for all ages.
John F Kennedy Memorial
4.0 km
A solemn tribute to President Kennedy on historic English soil, linking liberty's roots across the Atlantic at Runnymede.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Gothic Ruins
0.2 km
Explore the evocative Gothic Ruins nestled in the tranquil, historic gardens of Windsor’s royal Frogmore Estate.
Duchess of Kent Mausoleum
0.3 km
A serene royal memorial nestled in the tranquil gardens of Frogmore Estate, honoring Queen Victoria’s mother with Victorian elegance.
Frogmore House and Gardens
0.3 km
An intimate royal retreat where centuries of monarchy found solace in elegant gardens and private chambers.
The Long Walk
0.5 km
A majestic 2.65-mile tree-lined ceremonial avenue connecting Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse, steeped in royal history and natural splendor.
WMServices
0.6 km
Discover the charm of WMServices in Windsor, a must-visit tourist attraction rich in culture and history, perfect for all travelers.
The Windsor Castle
0.6 km
Explore Windsor Castle, the world's oldest inhabited castle, blending royal history, stunning architecture, and British tradition in a majestic palace setting.
Soldier's Statue
0.8 km
Explore Windsor's Soldier's Statue, a historic landmark honoring the courage of soldiers amidst the beauty of the city.
Ancient well
0.8 km
Discover Windsor’s Ancient Well: a tranquil historic landmark nestled near the royal castle, rich with centuries of local heritage and timeless charm.
Bachelor's Acre
0.8 km
Royal tribute meets family fun in Windsor's cherished town-centre park.
Windsor Parish Church of St John the Baptist
0.8 km
Historic Gothic Revival church in Windsor with rich heritage, artistic treasures, and a welcoming spiritual community near Windsor Castle.
Windsor Guildhall
0.9 km
Historic 17th-century Guildhall in Windsor offering regal wedding ceremonies with royal portraits and elegant event spaces for up to 100 guests.
Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
0.9 km
Explore Windsor’s rich heritage through thousands of artifacts and stories within the historic Guildhall’s welcoming museum.
The Crooked House of Windsor
0.9 km
Discover England’s oldest teahouse with its charming crooked architecture and cozy café atmosphere just steps from Windsor Castle.
Queen Charlotte Street
0.9 km
Discover England’s shortest street, a charming cobblestone lane steeped in history and Victorian elegance, right by Windsor Castle.
The State Apartments
0.9 km
Explore the opulent State Apartments at Windsor Castle, a stunning showcase of British royal history and architectural grandeur.
Essential places to dine
À la Russe
0.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and elegant dining just steps from Windsor Castle at À la Russe, a cherished culinary gem on High Street.
Meat At The Parish
0.8 km
A vibrant steakhouse and cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly dry-aged steaks and a cozy, contemporary atmosphere near Windsor Castle.
Long Walk Grill
0.9 km
Cozy Mediterranean dining with stone-baked pizzas and fresh seafood in the heart of historic Windsor’s High Street.
The Queen Charlotte
0.9 km
A welcoming British pub near Windsor Castle, offering hearty roasts, local ales, and cozy charm in the heart of Windsor.
1423 China Kitchen
0.9 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors in a historic Windsor setting, blending centuries-old heritage with vibrant Cantonese, Sichuan, and Shanghainese cuisine.
Latino
0.9 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors in a vibrant, spotless setting at the heart of Windsor’s lively dining scene.
Maison Meejana
0.9 km
Discover authentic Lebanese cuisine in a cozy Windsor setting, blending traditional flavors with modern hospitality near Windsor Castle.
Clarence Brasserie & Tea Room
0.9 km
A cozy blend of Italian flavors and traditional English tea near Windsor Castle, perfect for relaxed dining and classic afternoon tea.
Eighteen
0.9 km
Elegant dining on Windsor’s High Street, blending classic charm with modern culinary excellence and warm hospitality.
Leaf At The Castle
0.9 km
Elegant British dining with a botanical touch, steps from Windsor Castle, featuring seasonal menus and a celebrated Royal afternoon tea.
Plate at No. 6
0.9 km
An intimate Windsor tapas restaurant serving vibrant Mediterranean small plates in a stylish, open-kitchen setting with al fresco views of Windsor Castle.
Bluegrass BBQ
0.9 km
Authentic American barbecue flavors served in a lively Windsor setting near the iconic castle.
K Kitchen
1.0 km
Discover authentic Korean cuisine with fresh flavors and warm hospitality in Windsor’s charming K Kitchen.
Duck & Dim Sum Chinese Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Chinese flavors with aromatic crispy duck and delicate dim sum in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant dining scene.
The Ivy Windsor
1.0 km
A stylish British brasserie near Windsor Castle, offering classic dishes with modern elegance in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great British Gifts
0.9 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artisan treasures just steps from Windsor Castle at Great British Gifts.
Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs
0.9 km
Discover charming and affordable keepsakes at Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs, your perfect stop for memorable treasures near Windsor Castle.
House Of Gifts
0.9 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at House Of Gifts, your friendly stop near the castle for memorable keepsakes and affordable treasures.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.9 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and classic styles at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Windsor’s historic Castle Hill.
King & Queen Gift Shop
0.9 km
Discover royal-themed gifts and charming souvenirs steps from Windsor Castle at the King & Queen Gift Shop.
A Little Present
0.9 km
Explore 'A Little Present' in Windsor - your destination for unique gifts, handcrafted souvenirs, and local treasures to cherish forever.
Glorious Britain
1.0 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and gifts in the heart of historic Windsor at Glorious Britain gift shop.
Indelibly Windsor
1.0 km
Discover Windsor’s culture and heritage through unique gifts and expert visitor services at Indelibly Windsor on High Street.
Crew Clothing
1.0 km
Classic British smart casual wear in the heart of historic Windsor, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship.
huttons
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Huttons, a charming family-run independent store in the heart of historic Windsor.
Temptation Gifts
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and over 1,000 greeting cards in Windsor’s welcoming and ever-changing Temptation Gifts store on Peascod Street.
Marks and Spencer
1.0 km
A reliable Marks & Spencer department store in central Windsor, offering fashion, homeware and a well-stocked food hall on Peascod Street.
The Works
1.0 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant shopping district.
Windsor Royal Station
1.0 km
Independent shopping in a Victorian railway arch at the heart of historic Windsor.
Windsor Wine & Gifts
1.0 km
Discover unique wines and charming gifts in the heart of Windsor, steps from the iconic Windsor Castle and the scenic Thames.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Two Brewers
0.6 km
Historic 18th-century pub near Windsor Castle offering classic British ales, cozy ambiance, and a charming floral exterior.
The Corner House
0.7 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
0.8 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Prince Harry
0.9 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
The Cobbles
0.9 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
The Shambles
0.9 km
Discover Windsor’s award-winning bar housed in a charmingly tilted historic building, famed for creative cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Carpenters Arms
0.9 km
Historic pub in Windsor serving classic British fare and cask ales in a welcoming, artisan-inspired setting near Windsor Castle.
The Horse & Groom
0.9 km
Historic and welcoming English pub opposite Windsor Castle, offering hearty food, local ales, and cosy accommodation in the heart of Windsor.
The Sinner Bar
1.0 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
No5 St Leonards Road
1.0 km
Elegant cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and a welcoming atmosphere combine at No5 St Leonards Road, Windsor’s premier cocktail bar.
The Queen Victoria
1.1 km
Step into The Queen Victoria for an authentic 18th-century English pub experience with hearty food, real ales, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere in Windsor.
The Piper Art Bar
1.1 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 King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
1.1 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
1.1 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
The Royal Windsor
1.2 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
1.0 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Scotch
1.1 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
The Boom
1.1 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
1.1 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
The Binfield Club
14.2 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Winkers Nightclub
15.2 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Diligence
17.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
20.0 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
20.0 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
3sixty
24.2 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Popworld Watford
24.4 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
24.4 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Lost In Disco
25.6 km
An intimate West London disco night celebrating 1970s–80s funk, soul and floor-filling classics with DJs, guest singers and a glittering dancefloor.
Q Club
26.0 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
26.1 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
