Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, Windsor Travel Guide

Nestled on the ground floor of the magnificent Windsor Guildhall, the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum is a gateway to the rich and varied history of Windsor and the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead. Since its establishment in 1951 during the Festival of Britain celebrations, the museum has grown to house over 13,000 objects that chronicle the area's story from prehistoric times to the present day. The collection includes Stone Age flints, Roman tiles, poignant First World War letters, and much more, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.

The museum shares its home with the Grade I listed Windsor Guildhall, a building steeped in history and royal significance. The Guildhall’s upstairs rooms, accessible via guided tours, are adorned with portraits of monarchs dating back to Elizabeth I and have hosted notable events such as the marriage of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. These tours provide an intimate glimpse into Windsor’s civic history and the grandeur of its heritage.

The museum’s exhibits are designed to engage visitors of all ages with interactive displays and fascinating stories told through an audio trail by local residents. Highlights include a 100,000-year-old mammoth tusk and a detailed model of the Hawker Hurricane aircraft, designed by Windsor-born Sir Sydney Camm. The museum also embraces contemporary history, inviting the community to contribute to the Royal Borough Memory Box project, which collects personal artifacts and stories reflecting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Supported by a dedicated team of volunteers and the Friends of Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, the museum thrives as a community hub. Volunteers assist with everything from curating exhibitions to hosting visitors and managing the extensive archives. The museum’s commitment to preserving and sharing local history is evident in its ongoing digitisation efforts, making thousands of objects accessible online.

Open to the public on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am to 4pm, admission to the museum is free. The site is wheelchair accessible, with nearby accessible toilets and blue badge parking available in the town centre. Visitors can enhance their experience by joining the affordable guided tours of the Guildhall’s upper rooms, which last around 30 to 40 minutes. The museum is conveniently located a short walk from Windsor & Eton Central and Windsor & Eton Riverside train stations.

Beyond its physical displays, the museum actively preserves Windsor’s heritage through exhibitions, online content, and community projects. Its collection continues to grow and evolve, reflecting the dynamic history of the Royal Borough. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum offers a unique and enriching insight into this iconic English town.