The Long Walk: Windsor’s Royal Avenue of History and Majesty
A majestic three-mile tree-lined avenue linking Windsor Castle to the iconic Copper Horse statue, steeped in royal history and scenic grandeur.
The Long Walk is an iconic nearly three-mile tree-lined avenue stretching from Windsor Castle’s George IV Gateway to the Copper Horse statue atop Snow Hill. Created in the late 17th century under King Charles II’s vision, this grand path through Windsor Great Park blends royal heritage, stunning vistas, and centuries of tradition. It has served as a ceremonial route, a leisure promenade for monarchs, and the backdrop for historic events including royal weddings and funerals.
A brief summary to The Long Walk
- The Long Walk Rd, Windsor, GB
- +441753860222
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Start your walk from Windsor Castle’s Cambridge Gate for the full historic experience or from the Copper Horse statue for a quieter approach.
- Visit during weekdays or off-peak seasons to enjoy a peaceful stroll with fewer crowds.
- Consider a horse-drawn carriage ride between March and December for a unique and elegant way to experience the walk.
- Bring a camera to capture panoramic views from Snow Hill and the striking Copper Horse statue.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the round trip can take 2 to 3 hours at a relaxed pace.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take a train to Windsor & Eton Central from London Paddington or London Waterloo, with journey times of 30 to 60 minutes. From the station, it’s a 15-20 minute flat walk through Windsor town to the Cambridge Gate entrance of The Long Walk. This option is accessible and avoids parking constraints.
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Car and Walk
Drive to Windsor town and park in one of the public car parks near the town centre. From there, walk approximately 10-15 minutes to The Long Walk’s northern entrance at Cambridge Gate. Note that no parking is available directly on The Long Walk, and cars are prohibited along the avenue.
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Bus and Walk
Use local bus services that connect Windsor town centre with surrounding areas. After arriving in town, walk 10-15 minutes to The Long Walk entrance. Bus services vary in frequency, so check schedules in advance. This is a cost-effective option with easy access.
The Long Walk 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 The Long Walk
Origins and Design of a Regal Promenade
The Long Walk was conceived during the reign of King Charles II between 1680 and 1685 as part of a grand vision to enhance Windsor Castle’s surroundings. Inspired by the formal avenues and gardens of continental Europe, particularly the work of landscape architect André Le Nôtre at Versailles, Charles II commissioned a straight, majestic tree-lined avenue to create a ceremonial route and a striking visual axis emphasizing the castle’s grandeur. Originally planted with over 1,800 elm trees spaced symmetrically, the avenue was designed to impress visitors and provide a scenic vista extending nearly three miles south from the castle to Snow Hill.Royal Connections and Cultural Significance
Over the centuries, The Long Walk has been intimately linked to the British monarchy’s life and ceremonies. Kings George III and Queen Victoria cherished the avenue for leisure walks and carriage rides. The southern terminus is marked by the Copper Horse statue, erected in 1831 to honor King George III’s contributions to Windsor Great Park. This iconic equestrian statue stands atop Snow Hill, offering panoramic views across the park and beyond. The Long Walk has also been the setting for significant royal events, including the 2018 wedding procession of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and the 2022 funeral procession of Queen Elizabeth II, underscoring its role as a living symbol of monarchy and tradition.Landscape and Natural Beauty
The Long Walk is more than a historic route; it is a tranquil, scenic corridor through Windsor Great Park. The avenue’s tarmac path is flanked by carefully maintained lawns and a mix of mature London Plane and Horse Chestnut trees, following replanting efforts after elm disease outbreaks in the 20th century. The parkland surrounding the walk is home to grazing deer and offers a peaceful retreat from urban life. The gentle rolling terrain and expansive open skies make it a favored spot for walkers, runners, and horse-drawn carriage rides, especially from March to December.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Visitors can start The Long Walk from Windsor Castle’s Cambridge Gate or from the park gates near the Copper Horse statue. The full length is approximately 2.6 miles (4.2 km) one way, with a round trip taking around 2 to 3 hours at a leisurely pace. The path is flat, paved, and step-free, making it accessible for most visitors. While bicycles and cars are prohibited, horse-drawn carriages offer a charming alternative for experiencing the walk. Nearby amenities include seating areas and access to Windsor town for refreshments. The Long Walk is open year-round and provides a peaceful escape with stunning views of the castle and park.Historical Layers and Enduring Legacy
The Long Walk embodies centuries of British history, from its 17th-century royal landscaping origins to its role in modern royal ceremonies. It reflects evolving landscape design trends and the monarchy’s connection to nature and public life. The avenue’s uninterrupted straightness and majestic scale symbolize continuity and royal authority. As a public space, it balances preservation with accessibility, welcoming visitors to walk in the footsteps of kings and queens while enjoying one of England’s most picturesque parklands.Iconic Landmarks Along the Route
At the northern end, Windsor Castle’s George IV Gateway and the Round Tower provide a historic backdrop, while at the southern end, the Copper Horse statue dominates Snow Hill. This statue, sculpted by Sir Richard Westmacott, commemorates King George III’s reign and agricultural interests. The views from Snow Hill stretch across the parkland to Heathrow Airport and west London. Throughout the walk, the surrounding Deer Park offers glimpses of wildlife and natural beauty, enriching the experience with a sense of timelessness and connection to England’s royal heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
0.2 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)
0.3 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.5 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
King Edward III Tower
0.5 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
0.6 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
The Curfew Tower
0.6 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
0.7 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Sydney Camm Memorial
1.2 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Burning Bush
1.6 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
3.8 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
John F Kennedy Memorial
4.5 km
A solemn tribute to President Kennedy on historic English soil, linking liberty's roots across the Atlantic at Runnymede.
Unmissable attractions to see
WMServices
0.2 km
Discover the charm of WMServices in Windsor, a must-visit tourist attraction rich in culture and history, perfect for all travelers.
Soldier's Statue
0.3 km
Explore Windsor's Soldier's Statue, a historic landmark honoring the courage of soldiers amidst the beauty of the city.
Ancient well
0.3 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
0.3 km
Royal tribute meets family fun in Windsor's cherished town-centre park.
Windsor Parish Church of St John the Baptist
0.4 km
Historic Gothic Revival church in Windsor with rich heritage, artistic treasures, and a welcoming spiritual community near Windsor Castle.
Windsor Guildhall
0.4 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
0.4 km
Explore Windsor’s rich heritage through thousands of artifacts and stories within the historic Guildhall’s welcoming museum.
The Crooked House of Windsor
0.5 km
Discover England’s oldest teahouse with its charming crooked architecture and cozy café atmosphere just steps from Windsor Castle.
Queen Charlotte Street
0.5 km
Discover England’s shortest street, a charming cobblestone lane steeped in history and Victorian elegance, right by Windsor Castle.
Frogmore Cottage
0.5 km
Historic royal retreat nestled in Windsor’s Frogmore Estate, blending serene gardens with centuries of British monarchy heritage.
Queen Elizabeth II: Windsor memorial drinking fountain
0.5 km
A regal and sustainable tribute to Queen Elizabeth II offering free drinking water in the historic heart of Windsor.
Historical Windsor
0.5 km
Step into Windsor’s rich past and vibrant present on historic Peascod Street, where royal heritage meets charming shopping.
The Windsor Castle
0.5 km
Explore Windsor Castle, the world's oldest inhabited castle, blending royal history, stunning architecture, and British tradition in a majestic palace setting.
Windsor Castle
0.6 km
Explore Windsor Castle, the historic royal residence, and uncover centuries of British history within its majestic walls and beautiful gardens.
FUZZY BEAR Cocktails & Comedy
0.6 km
Experience vibrant comedy nights and creative cocktails in a unique railway arch venue in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife.
Essential places to dine
À la Russe
0.3 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
Cozy Mediterranean dining with stone-baked pizzas and fresh seafood in the heart of historic Windsor’s High Street.
Latino
0.4 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors in a vibrant, spotless setting at the heart of Windsor’s lively dining scene.
1423 China Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors in a historic Windsor setting, blending centuries-old heritage with vibrant Cantonese, Sichuan, and Shanghainese cuisine.
Maison Meejana
0.4 km
Discover authentic Lebanese cuisine in a cozy Windsor setting, blending traditional flavors with modern hospitality near Windsor Castle.
The Queen Charlotte
0.4 km
A welcoming British pub near Windsor Castle, offering hearty roasts, local ales, and cozy charm in the heart of Windsor.
Eighteen
0.4 km
Elegant dining on Windsor’s High Street, blending classic charm with modern culinary excellence and warm hospitality.
Leaf At The Castle
0.4 km
Elegant British dining with a botanical touch, steps from Windsor Castle, featuring seasonal menus and a celebrated Royal afternoon tea.
Clarence Brasserie & Tea Room
0.4 km
A cozy blend of Italian flavors and traditional English tea near Windsor Castle, perfect for relaxed dining and classic afternoon tea.
Plate at No. 6
0.4 km
An intimate Windsor tapas restaurant serving vibrant Mediterranean small plates in a stylish, open-kitchen setting with al fresco views of Windsor Castle.
K Kitchen
0.5 km
Discover authentic Korean cuisine with fresh flavors and warm hospitality in Windsor’s charming K Kitchen.
Bluegrass BBQ
0.5 km
Authentic American barbecue flavors served in a lively Windsor setting near the iconic castle.
Duck & Dim Sum Chinese Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Chinese flavors with aromatic crispy duck and delicate dim sum in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant dining scene.
Sebastian's
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors in Windsor’s cozy family-owned Sebastian's, where fresh ingredients and warm service await.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great British Gifts
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artisan treasures just steps from Windsor Castle at Great British Gifts.
Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover charming and affordable keepsakes at Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs, your perfect stop for memorable treasures near Windsor Castle.
House Of Gifts
0.5 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at House Of Gifts, your friendly stop near the castle for memorable keepsakes and affordable treasures.
A Little Present
0.5 km
Explore 'A Little Present' in Windsor - your destination for unique gifts, handcrafted souvenirs, and local treasures to cherish forever.
King & Queen Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover royal-themed gifts and charming souvenirs steps from Windsor Castle at the King & Queen Gift Shop.
Glorious Britain
0.5 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and gifts in the heart of historic Windsor at Glorious Britain gift shop.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.5 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and classic styles at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Windsor’s historic Castle Hill.
Indelibly Windsor
0.5 km
Discover Windsor’s culture and heritage through unique gifts and expert visitor services at Indelibly Windsor on High Street.
Crew Clothing
0.5 km
Classic British smart casual wear in the heart of historic Windsor, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship.
Temptation Gifts
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and over 1,000 greeting cards in Windsor’s welcoming and ever-changing Temptation Gifts store on Peascod Street.
huttons
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Huttons, a charming family-run independent store in the heart of historic Windsor.
Marks and Spencer
0.5 km
A reliable Marks & Spencer department store in central Windsor, offering fashion, homeware and a well-stocked food hall on Peascod Street.
The Works
0.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant shopping district.
Windsor Royal Station
0.6 km
Independent shopping in a Victorian railway arch at the heart of historic Windsor.
Daniel Department Store
0.6 km
Historic family-run department store in Windsor offering luxury fashion, homeware, dining, and personalized services in a modern setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Two Brewers
0.2 km
Historic 18th-century pub near Windsor Castle offering classic British ales, cozy ambiance, and a charming floral exterior.
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
0.4 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Prince Harry
0.4 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
The Cobbles
0.4 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
The Shambles
0.5 km
Discover Windsor’s award-winning bar housed in a charmingly tilted historic building, famed for creative cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Carpenters Arms
0.5 km
Historic pub in Windsor serving classic British fare and cask ales in a welcoming, artisan-inspired setting near Windsor Castle.
The Horse & Groom
0.5 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
0.5 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
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 Piper Art Bar
0.6 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 King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
0.6 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
0.6 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
Upstairs Windsor
0.7 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
