Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
Royal heritage and local stories preserved in a Grade I listed Guildhall at the heart of Windsor.
Nestled within the Grade I listed Windsor Guildhall on High Street, this accredited museum showcases over a century of local heritage through interactive displays and carefully curated artifacts. From 100,000-year-old mammoth tusks and Roman tiles to First World War letters and a model Hawker Hurricane designed by Windsor-born Sir Sydney Camm, the collection spans the full breadth of East Berkshire's history. Admission is free, and guided tours of the ornate Guildhall rooms—where royal ceremonies and civil partnerships have taken place—are available for a small fee. An audio trail featuring stories from local residents brings the borough's changing landscape to life.
A brief summary to Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
- & Royal Borough Museum, 51 High St, Windsor, SL4 1LR, GB
- +441628685686
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning to experience the museum with fewer crowds and have more time to engage with staff and volunteers who are knowledgeable historians.
- Book a guided tour of the Guildhall's upper rooms in advance to see the ornate spaces where royal ceremonies have taken place and view the collection of monarch portraits.
- Allow time to explore the audio trail featuring stories from local residents, which adds personal context and depth to the artifacts on display.
- Check the museum's social media channels and YouTube for newly released content, including online tours and podcasts, especially if visiting outside opening hours.
- Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Windsor attractions, including Windsor Castle, the Crooked House, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train from London
From London Paddington, change at Slough to reach Windsor & Eton Central Station, approximately 50 minutes total travel time. Alternatively, direct trains from London Waterloo arrive at Windsor & Eton Riverside Station in approximately 60 minutes. Both stations are a few minutes walk to the Guildhall, following town centre signage. Standard off-peak return fares from London range from £12 to £20 depending on time of booking.
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Car via M4 Motorway
From London, travel west along the M4 to junction 6 near Slough, then follow signs to Windsor town centre. Journey time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic. There is no parking at the Guildhall itself. Nearest car parks are Victoria Street (SL4 1EG), King Edward Court off Charles Street, River Street (SL4 1QT), and Romney Lock Road (SL6 6HX). Blue Badge parking with six spaces is available at the top of Thames Street. Standard car park charges range from £1.50 to £3 per hour.
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Bus from Windsor town centre
Any local bus service to Windsor town centre will bring you within walking distance of the Guildhall. City Sightseeing Tour buses stop at Queen Victoria Statue in the town centre. From there, the Guildhall is signposted by finger posts throughout the town centre, approximately 5 to 10 minutes walk. Bus fares vary by route but typically range from £2 to £5 for a single journey.
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Cycling
Bicycle stands are available behind the Guildhall by The Prince Harry Pub, making cycling a convenient option for local visitors. The town centre is relatively compact and cycle-friendly, with the Guildhall easily accessible from surrounding areas. No entrance fee applies for cyclists.
Windsor & Royal Borough Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
A Museum Born from Royal Celebration
The Windsor & Royal Borough Museum has a distinctive origin story rooted in national celebration. In 1951, local historian Maitland Underhill created an exhibition about Windsor's history as part of the National Festival of Britain. The exhibition proved so popular that it remained on display in the Guildhall for over three decades. After a period of closure, the museum was formally reopened by Her Majesty the Queen in 2011, marking a renewal of the institution's commitment to preserving and sharing the borough's rich heritage. Today, it stands as an accredited museum supported by dedicated volunteers and the Friends of Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, continuing a legacy of royal patronage and community engagement that has spanned nearly 75 years.Treasures Spanning Millennia
The museum's collection encompasses more than 13,000 objects, with over a hundred carefully selected pieces on permanent display in the ground-floor gallery. The range is remarkable: Stone Age flints and Roman tiles sit alongside poignant First World War letters, a 100,000-year-old mammoth tusk, and a model of the Hawker Hurricane aircraft designed by Windsor-born aeronautical engineer Sir Sydney Camm. Among the more whimsical items is an original programme from the 1943 Windsor Castle Aladdin Pantomime, which featured Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret in performance. Each artifact tells a story of the borough's evolution, from prehistoric settlement through Roman occupation to the medieval period and beyond. Thousands more objects are preserved in the museum's archive store, meticulously catalogued and gradually added to the online collection through an ongoing digitisation project that began in 2014.The Guildhall: A Setting Steeped in Royal History
The museum occupies the ground floor of Windsor Guildhall, a magnificent Grade I listed building that serves as far more than a backdrop. The Guildhall itself is a character-filled venue with ornate upper rooms that have hosted significant royal occasions, including the marriage of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, and the civil partnership of Elton John and David Furnish. Guided tours of these splendid rooms, lasting 30 to 40 minutes, are available for a modest charge of £5, with proceeds supporting the museum's upkeep. Visitors ascend to view an impressive collection of royal portraits spanning from Elizabeth I to the present day, gaining insight into the civic and ceremonial history of Windsor through the eyes of knowledgeable volunteer guides who bring centuries of stories to life.Voices of the Community
Beyond its physical collection, the museum employs an innovative audio trail that amplifies the voices of local residents. Rather than relying solely on curatorial interpretation, the museum invites visitors to hear personal narratives about life in the borough and the changing landscape over generations. This approach transforms the museum experience from passive observation into an intimate dialogue with the community's past. The museum has also embraced contemporary history through the Royal Borough Memory Box project, which invites residents to contribute photographs, videos, artwork, stories, and personal items documenting their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown—ensuring that recent history is captured and preserved for future generations.Accessible Heritage for All Ages
The museum is designed to welcome families and visitors of all ages and abilities. Wheelchair accessibility is provided on the ground floor, where the main collection is displayed. For those wishing to access the upper Guildhall rooms, a stair lift is available on selected days; advance contact with the museum ensures appropriate arrangements. The museum's commitment to accessibility extends to its digital presence, with an expanding online catalogue allowing those unable to visit in person to explore the collection remotely. Nearby facilities include accessible restrooms in Bachelors Acre and Windsor Library, supporting visitors who may require additional amenities during their visit.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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
