H. G. Wells White Plaque at 26 High Street, Windsor
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
The H. G. Wells White Plaque at 26 High Street, Windsor, marks the site where the renowned science fiction author Herbert George Wells worked as a young apprentice. This historical landmark commemorates Wells’s early years in Windsor, a formative period before he rose to literary fame. Situated in the heart of Windsor’s historic High Street, the plaque offers a tangible connection to the life of one of literature’s most influential figures.
A brief summary to H. G. Wells White Plaque
- 26 High St, Windsor, SL4 1LH, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience to appreciate the plaque and surrounding historic sites without crowds.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Windsor High Street to explore other plaques and historic landmarks nearby.
- Look inside the Glorious Britain shop where the plaque is located to see it up close and enjoy the historic ambiance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Windsor town center to High Street, with frequent departures every 10-20 minutes. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Buses are wheelchair accessible and cost around £2-£4 per trip.
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Train and Walk
From Windsor & Eton Central railway station, a 10-15 minute walk along Peascod Street and High Street leads to 26 High Street. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs. Train fares vary but typically range from £5-£15 depending on origin.
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Car
Driving to Windsor High Street is possible, but parking is limited and often paid. Nearby public car parks offer hourly rates around £2-£4. The area can be busy during peak times, so plan for 10-20 minutes of walking from parking areas.
H. G. Wells White Plaque location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about H. G. Wells White Plaque
A Glimpse into H. G. Wells’s Early Life in Windsor
The white plaque at 26 High Street in Windsor commemorates the early career of Herbert George Wells, better known as H. G. Wells, one of the most influential writers of speculative fiction. In the summer of 1880, at just fourteen years old, Wells began working as an apprentice at Rodgers and Denyer, a drapery shop located on this very street. This period was crucial in shaping his worldview and work ethic before he became famous for classics such as "The Time Machine" and "The War of the Worlds." The plaque serves as a reminder of his humble beginnings and the town’s role in his formative years.The Historical Context of Rodgers and Denyer
Rodgers and Denyer was a prestigious establishment in Windsor, known for its silk mercery, linen drapery, and lacemaking, serving the royal family and local elite. By the early 20th century, the store had gained a reputation as a supplier to King Edward VII and his court, highlighting the significance of the location Wells once worked. The premises that housed this shop have since evolved, but the plaque preserves the memory of its historical importance and Wells’s association with it.Windsor’s Rich Literary and Cultural Heritage
Windsor has long been a town steeped in history and culture, with landmarks such as Windsor Castle and St George’s Chapel nearby. The presence of the H. G. Wells plaque adds a literary dimension to the town’s heritage, linking it to the world of imaginative storytelling. Wells’s connection to Windsor is further enriched by his personal history in the area, including his ties to local sites like Monkey Island and Surly Hall, places that featured in his life and relationships.Visiting the Plaque and Its Surroundings
Located just inside the door of the Glorious Britain shop on High Street, the plaque is easily accessible to visitors exploring Windsor’s historic center. The area around the plaque offers a charming glimpse into the town’s past, with nearby attractions including Windsor Castle, the Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, and other commemorative plaques celebrating notable figures. The setting invites reflection on the intersection of local history and global literary legacy.The Enduring Legacy of H. G. Wells
Though Wells’s time in Windsor was relatively brief and marked by the challenges of youth, the plaque symbolizes his lasting impact on literature and culture. His pioneering works in science fiction have inspired generations of readers and writers worldwide. The plaque at 26 High Street stands as a tribute not only to Wells’s early years but also to the enduring power of imagination and storytelling rooted in real places.Connecting Past and Present Through Commemoration
The white plaque is part of a wider tradition of commemorating historical figures in Windsor, linking the town’s rich past with contemporary appreciation. It invites visitors to consider the personal histories behind famous names and the physical spaces that shaped them. In this way, the plaque enhances Windsor’s cultural tapestry, offering a small but meaningful portal into the life of H. G. Wells and the town’s vibrant heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
H. G. Wells White Plaque
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Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
