Rotary Duck Race at Barry Avenue, Windsor
Join the Rotary Duck Race at Barry Avenue, Windsor for a lively summer day of fun, music, market stalls, and charity on the scenic riverbanks.
The Rotary Duck Race in Windsor is a lively annual summer event held at Barry Avenue, combining community spirit with fun-filled activities. Over 200 rubber ducks race along the river, raising funds for local charities. The event features market stalls, live music, children’s rides, food and drink vendors, and a festive atmosphere that draws families and visitors for a quintessential British summer day out.
A brief summary to Rotary Duck Race
- Barry Ave, Windsor, SL4 5HZ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to explore the market stalls and enjoy the full range of entertainment before the duck race begins.
- Bring a picnic blanket to relax in Alexandra Gardens while enjoying the live music and river views.
- Purchase duck sponsorships in advance to support local charities and take part in the race excitement.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for typical British summer weather, which can be changeable.
- Check the Rotary Club of Windsor & Eton website or local listings for the exact date and time of the event.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Windsor town center to Barry Avenue, with a travel time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently during event days, but expect higher passenger volumes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 per journey.
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Train and Walk
Windsor & Eton Riverside train station is about a 20-minute walk from Barry Avenue. Trains from London Paddington take roughly 30-40 minutes. Walking involves some gentle slopes and is suitable for most visitors.
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Car
Driving to Barry Avenue is possible with nearby parking options, but spaces may be limited during the event. Expect a 10-15 minute drive from Windsor town center. Parking fees vary from £3 to £10 depending on location and duration.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services offer a convenient 10-minute trip from central Windsor to Barry Avenue. Prices typically range from £8 to £15, depending on traffic and time of day.
Rotary Duck Race 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 Rotary Duck Race
A Celebration of Community and Charity
The Rotary Duck Race at Barry Avenue is a cherished summer tradition in Windsor, organized by the Windsor & Eton Rotary Club. This event is much more than a simple race; it is a vibrant community gathering that supports local charities and initiatives. Each year, hundreds of rubber ducks are released into the river, racing downstream to a finish line, with proceeds going to various charitable causes, including contributions towards the borough’s Christmas lights and other community projects.Festive Activities and Market Stalls
Alongside the duck race, the event features over 30 market stalls offering a diverse range of goods, from handmade crafts to local produce. Visitors can enjoy games, competitions, and demonstrations that add to the festive atmosphere. Food and drink options are plentiful, including traditional British fare, ice cream vans, and barbecue stalls. The event caters to all ages, with children’s fun rides and entertainment ensuring a family-friendly environment.Live Music and Entertainment
Music plays a central role in the day’s festivities, with performances on the bandstand by local bands such as the Chalvey Down Swing Band and Bagshot Concert Band. Throughout the day, local acts and school groups perform, creating a lively soundtrack that enhances the celebratory mood. The combination of live music and community spirit makes the event a highlight of Windsor’s summer calendar.The Iconic Duck Race
The highlight of the day is the duck race itself, typically held in the late afternoon. More than 200 ducks are released into the river, racing to the finish line in a fun and unpredictable spectacle. The race not only entertains but also fosters friendly competition among participants who sponsor ducks, with prizes awarded to the fastest and sometimes the last ducks. This unique event draws crowds who gather along the riverbanks to cheer on their chosen ducks.Setting and Atmosphere
Barry Avenue and the surrounding Alexandra Gardens provide a picturesque setting for the event, with the river Thames adding a scenic backdrop. The gardens offer a relaxing space for visitors to picnic, enjoy the sunshine, and soak up the lively atmosphere. The event’s quintessentially British charm, combined with its charitable mission, creates a warm and inviting environment that welcomes locals and tourists alike.Supporting Windsor’s Vibrant Community
Beyond the fun and festivities, the Rotary Duck Race plays an important role in supporting Windsor’s community. Funds raised help local charities and contribute to civic projects that enhance the town’s quality of life. The event exemplifies the Rotary Club’s commitment to service and community engagement, making it a meaningful occasion that brings people together in support of a common cause.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sydney Camm Memorial
0.1 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
0.5 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
The Curfew Tower
0.5 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.6 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
0.6 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
0.7 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)
0.8 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
0.8 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.
Burning Bush
0.9 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
0.9 km
Discover the legacy of WWI hero Lt Col Harry Greenwood at his birthplace marked by a blue plaque in historic Windsor.
Miniland
3.4 km
Explore Miniland at LEGOLAND® Windsor, where famous landmarks are reimagined in stunning LEGO detail, offering a family-friendly adventure for all ages.
Dorney Court
4.2 km
Explore the enchanting Dorney Court, a historical landmark with stunning gardens and rich heritage, perfect for an unforgettable day out.
King George III & His Horse Statue
4.5 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
Unmissable attractions to see
River Thames Windsor
0.1 km
Experience the timeless charm of Windsor along the scenic and historic River Thames, where royal heritage meets tranquil waters.
Alexandra Gardens
0.1 km
A scenic riverside oasis in Windsor offering stunning castle views, vibrant community events, and peaceful green spaces for all seasons.
Windsor & Eton Brewery & Unit 4 Taproom
0.1 km
Discover award-winning craft beers and vibrant events at Windsor & Eton Brewery’s modern Unit 4 Taproom in the heart of Windsor.
The Brocas
0.2 km
Historic riverside meadow in Eton, steeped in medieval legacy and famed for its vibrant rowing traditions on the Thames.
Windsor Wheel
0.3 km
A gentle 110-foot observation wheel offering serene panoramic views of Windsor, the Thames Valley, and historic landmarks.
Diamond Jubilee Water Fountains
0.3 km
A regal water spectacle near Windsor Castle celebrating Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee with 60 jets forming a crown in tranquil riverside gardens.
Royal Windsor Maze
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Royal Windsor Maze, a unique brick labyrinth featuring a mosaic of Windsor Castle's Round Tower at its centre.
Windsor Riverside Walk
0.4 km
A scenic riverside promenade with views of Windsor Castle, connecting Alexandra Gardens, Eton, and the town centre for a peaceful, picturesque stroll.
The Music & Words Club
0.4 km
A vibrant Windsor venue where music and spoken word unite in an intimate, creative atmosphere.
Escape Experience
0.4 km
Dive into thrilling, family-friendly escape rooms in Windsor with immersive themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
Monument Commemorating the Diamond Jubilee
0.5 km
A historic obelisk in Windsor honoring royal jubilees, blending heritage with serene green space at Bachelors Acre.
FUZZY BEAR Cocktails & Comedy
0.5 km
Experience vibrant comedy nights and creative cocktails in a unique railway arch venue in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife.
Sculpture
0.5 km
Explore Eton's iconic sculpture, a stunning emblem of art and history nestled by the River Thames, enriching your journey through Windsor.
Eton & Eton wick information centre
0.5 km
Your friendly gateway to Eton’s heritage, local art, and visitor services on High Street near Windsor Bridge.
Shami's Corner
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Shami's Corner in Windsor, where scenic views meet delightful local flavors in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Test Kitchen Food
0.2 km
Innovative, fresh, and vibrant dining at Windsor’s Test Kitchen Food in a unique brewery tap setting.
Patch On The Plaza
0.4 km
A lively alfresco restaurant in Windsor famed for seasonal small plates, warm service, and a memorable outdoor dining atmosphere.
Cattle Grid
0.4 km
Windsor’s lively steakhouse serving prime cuts, ribs, and burgers in a rustic American-style setting with generous portions and unique sauces.
Browns Windsor
0.4 km
Classic British brasserie charm with contemporary dining on Windsor’s scenic Promenade.
Bill's Windsor Restaurant
0.5 km
Cozy British dining with legendary pancakes and fresh, hearty meals in the heart of Windsor Royal Station.
Gilbey's Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse
0.5 km
Elegant modern British dining and boutique lodging in the heart of historic Eton, just steps from Windsor Castle.
Honest Burgers Windsor
0.5 km
Savor freshly made British burgers and rosemary chips just steps from Windsor Castle in a lively, locally inspired setting.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant Windsor
0.5 km
Authentic Italian dining in Windsor’s historic heart, offering wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Real Greek - Windsor
0.5 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors and vibrant Mediterranean hospitality at The Real Greek - Windsor, nestled by the scenic Thames.
The Brasserie at Sir Christopher Wren
0.5 km
Modern European dining with riverside views and friendly service in the heart of historic Windsor.
Côte Windsor
0.5 km
Classic French brasserie dining with stunning riverside views of Windsor Castle in a lively, modern setting.
Zizzi - Windsor
0.5 km
Enjoy fresh Italian classics and warm hospitality opposite Windsor Castle in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Thai Square Windsor
0.5 km
Upscale Thai dining with authentic flavors and elegant ambiance opposite Windsor Castle on Thames Street.
Antalya Restaurant Windsor
0.5 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Windsor’s historic Peascod Street.
Nando's Windsor
0.5 km
Flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken in the heart of Windsor – bold flavours, casual dining, and a relaxed vibe on Thames Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts Box
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Gifts Box, the charming gift shop in Windsor, perfect for your memorable keepsakes.
Jigsaw
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and quality craftsmanship at Jigsaw, Windsor's boutique for elegant ladies' fashion and unique statement pieces.
Windsor Yards
0.4 km
A vibrant shopping destination blending modern retail with Windsor’s historic charm and community spirit.
Oliver Bonas
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares at Oliver Bonas, nestled in the heart of Windsor Yards Shopping Centre.
H&M
0.4 km
Affordable, stylish fashion for men, women, and children in the heart of historic Windsor’s King Edward Court.
Piara
0.4 km
Explore Windsor's charm at Piara Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local treasures await every visitor.
Whistles
0.5 km
Upscale ladies’ fashion boutique set within the historic charm of Windsor Royal Station, blending contemporary style with Victorian elegance.
Craft Coop Windsor
0.5 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry at Craft Coop Windsor, a welcoming hub for community creativity and bespoke treasures.
Purple Gifts
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
Next
0.5 km
Next Windsor offers stylish, quality fashion and accessories for all ages in a convenient and welcoming shopping environment.
Daniel Department Store
0.5 km
Historic family-run department store in Windsor offering luxury fashion, homeware, dining, and personalized services in a modern setting.
Mint Velvet Windsor
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at A P Souvenirs & Gifts, your convenient stop near Windsor Castle for memorable keepsakes.
Warwicks
0.5 km
A premier men's clothing store nestled in Windsor’s historic Peascod Street, blending classic style with modern shopping charm.
Windsor Royal Station
0.5 km
Independent shopping in a Victorian railway arch at the heart of historic Windsor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Upstairs Windsor
0.4 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
All Bar One Windsor
0.4 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
0.5 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
La planchette
0.5 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The Piper Art Bar
0.5 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 Queen Victoria
0.6 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 Sinner Bar
0.6 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
The Royal Windsor
0.6 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
No5 St Leonards Road
0.6 km
Elegant cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and a welcoming atmosphere combine at No5 St Leonards Road, Windsor’s premier cocktail bar.
The Horse & Groom
0.6 km
Historic and welcoming English pub opposite Windsor Castle, offering hearty food, local ales, and cosy accommodation in the heart of Windsor.
The Shambles
0.6 km
Discover Windsor’s award-winning bar housed in a charmingly tilted historic building, famed for creative cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Carpenters Arms
0.7 km
Historic pub in Windsor serving classic British fare and cask ales in a welcoming, artisan-inspired setting near Windsor Castle.
The Prince Harry
0.7 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
The Cobbles
0.7 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
The Acre
0.7 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Boom
0.5 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Scotch
0.5 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
0.5 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
0.5 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Binfield Club
13.5 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Winkers Nightclub
14.6 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Diligence
16.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
18.6 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
18.6 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
3sixty
23.2 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Popworld Watford
24.3 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
24.3 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Q Club
24.9 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
25.0 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Reading Lola Lo
25.0 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
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
