The Long Walk
A majestic 2.65-mile tree-lined avenue through royal parkland, framing Windsor Castle in the distance.
The Long Walk is a magnificent tree-lined avenue stretching approximately 2.65 miles through Windsor Great Park, connecting Snow Hill to Windsor Castle. This iconic pathway, flanked by towering trees and open grasslands, offers one of England's most picturesque walks with stunning views of the castle at its terminus. Free to access and open from dawn to dusk, it serves as both a leisurely stroll and a gateway to exploring the broader 4,800-acre royal estate.
A brief summary to The Long Walk
- The Long Walk Rd, Windsor, GB
- +441753860222
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the best photography, when warm light bathes the avenue and casts long shadows across the path.
- Start from Snow Hill near the Savill Garden to walk toward the castle for the most dramatic perspective, with the castle growing larger as you progress.
- Bring binoculars to spot red kites soaring overhead on sunny days and watch for ring-necked parakeets in the surrounding trees.
- Wear appropriate footwear; the path can become muddy after rain, and sturdy walking shoes provide better grip and comfort for the full 2.65-mile walk.
- Plan 1.5 to 2 hours for a leisurely walk with stops for photographs and observation, rather than rushing through in under an hour.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Picnic Areas
Getting There
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By Car
Drive to Windsor Great Park via the A332, which runs through the park. Multiple car parks serve the Long Walk area; Virginia Water car parks (Virginia Water South or Virginia Water) provide convenient access with parking charges of approximately £3 per hour or up to £15 for a full day. From Virginia Water, the Long Walk is accessible via marked pathways. Alternatively, park at Snow Hill car park near the Savill Garden Visitor Centre for direct access to the avenue's starting point. Journey time from central Windsor is approximately 10–15 minutes.
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By Train and Bus
Take a train to Windsor and Eton Central or Windsor and Eton Riverside station (services from London Waterloo, London Paddington, and Reading). From Windsor town centre, the Long Walk is accessible on foot via the Bishopsgate entrance to Windsor Great Park, approximately 1.5 miles from the town centre (20–30 minutes walking). Alternatively, local bus services connect Windsor town centre to various park entrances; check local transport schedules for current routes and frequencies.
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By Bicycle
The Long Walk and surrounding park are accessible by bicycle. Cycle routes connect Windsor town centre to the park via the Thames Path and local cycling networks. The Long Walk itself permits cycling, making it suitable for a scenic ride. Journey time from Windsor town centre is approximately 15–20 minutes depending on route and fitness level. Bike parking is available at various park locations.
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On Foot from Windsor Town Centre
From Windsor town centre, walk to Bishopsgate entrance (approximately 1.5 miles, 25–30 minutes). Enter the park and follow marked pathways toward the Deer Park and Long Walk. This route offers a gradual introduction to the park's landscape. Alternatively, if you have access to parking, the Snow Hill car park near Savill Garden provides the most direct access to the Long Walk's starting point.
The Long Walk location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Long Walk
A Royal Avenue Through Time
The Long Walk stands as one of Windsor Great Park's most celebrated features, a grand tree-lined avenue that has captivated visitors for centuries. Stretching approximately 2.65 miles, this iconic pathway connects Snow Hill in the heart of the park directly to Windsor Castle, creating a dramatic perspective that frames the castle's silhouette at its terminus. Originally conceived as part of the royal landscape design, the Long Walk exemplifies the grandeur of 18th-century estate planning, when such avenues were fashioned to showcase power, order, and the majesty of the monarchy. The avenue is lined with mature trees that create a natural cathedral of foliage, their branches forming a canopy that shifts with the seasons. In spring and summer, the walk is bathed in dappled sunlight, while autumn transforms the pathway into a corridor of golden and russet tones. Winter reveals the skeletal architecture of the trees and opens up vistas across the surrounding parkland.The Experience of Walking
Walking the Long Walk is an immersive journey through carefully managed landscape. The path itself is well-maintained and accessible, with a gentle gradient that makes it suitable for most fitness levels. The walk typically takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours depending on pace and stops for photography or contemplation. Along the route, visitors encounter open meadows, glimpses of the Deer Park, and numerous vantage points where the castle emerges progressively larger on the horizon. The avenue's width and straightness create an almost hypnotic effect, drawing the eye forward toward the distant castle. This perspective has made the Long Walk one of the most photographed locations in the Windsor area, particularly during golden hour when the light bathes the path in warm tones. The walk accommodates various visitor types—from families with children to serious hikers and photographers seeking the perfect shot.Seasonal Transformations and Wildlife
Each season brings distinct character to the Long Walk. Spring sees the emergence of wildflowers in the surrounding grasslands and the return of migratory birds. Summer offers full canopy cover and the warmth of long daylight hours, making it ideal for extended exploration. Autumn delivers spectacular colour displays, while winter provides clear sightlines across the park and the possibility of frost-covered landscapes. Throughout the year, the Long Walk remains a haven for wildlife observation, particularly red kites that soar overhead on sunny days and ring-necked parakeets that have become increasingly common in the area.Access and Integration with Windsor Great Park
The Long Walk serves as both a destination in itself and a gateway to the broader Windsor Great Park experience. Entry is completely free, and the walk is accessible from multiple points. The most popular starting point is from the Snow Hill area near the Savill Garden and visitor facilities, though visitors can also access the walk from various park entrances including Bishop's Gate, which provides direct access to the Deer Park section. The walk connects seamlessly with other park features, allowing visitors to extend their journey to explore Virginia Water, the Valley Gardens, or the Deer Park.Historical Significance and Royal Heritage
The Long Walk is deeply embedded in Windsor's royal heritage, having served as a processional route and recreational space for centuries. The avenue reflects the landscape philosophy of its era, when straight lines and geometric precision were considered the height of aesthetic achievement. Over the past 70 years, since the park was opened to the public in the 1950s, the Long Walk has become democratized—no longer the exclusive preserve of royalty but a cherished public amenity that connects ordinary visitors to centuries of royal history and landscape tradition.Practical Considerations for Visitors
The Long Walk is open year-round from dawn to dusk as part of Windsor Great Park's free public areas. No advance booking is required. Parking is available at multiple locations throughout the park, with charges typically ranging from £3 per hour to approximately £15 for a full day at popular spots like Virginia Water. The path is suitable for walking, cycling, and horse riding. Facilities including cafés, restrooms, and gift shops are located at the Savill Garden Visitor Centre and other points throughout the park. Weather can affect conditions—the path may become muddy after heavy rain, and winter weather occasionally causes temporary closures of park sections.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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
0.6 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Scotch
0.6 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
The Boom
0.6 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
Pink Gentleman's Club.
0.6 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
15.0 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Diligence
17.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
19.6 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
19.6 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
3sixty
23.9 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Popworld Watford
24.4 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
24.4 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Q Club
25.6 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
25.7 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Reading Lola Lo
25.8 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
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Romantic
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
