Royal Windsor 2012 - Windsor Castle, residence of the Queen and a magnet for tourists
History
Windsor first gets mentioned in Anglo Saxon records as the area that is now Old Windsor. Windsor was granted Royal Borough status in 1277 and by the 15th Century was already one of the fifty wealthiest towns in the Country, mainly as a result of the Castle and the trade that it brought. New Windsor was renamed Windsor in 1974 although Old Windsor kept its name.
(Source: Wikipedia)
Attractions
Windsor is well endowed with attractions. Arguably the main one of these is the Castle (including St George's Chapel). The Castle includes a static display chronicling its development over the years. On State occasions much is made of the Castle for entertaining dignitaries and the arrival is a sure-fire crowd-puller. Shopping in Windsor includes the main High Street - Peascod Street which starts directly opposite the Castle and in addition, the railway station now has a good selection of boutique shops.
The riverside, about 10 minutes walk from the Castle is very picturesque. Windsor has its own mini version of the BA London Eye during the summer months
Legoland (open from April to November) is in Windsor's outskirts, in part of Windsor Great Park. The Great Park itself is many acres of parkland, including the Saville Gardens and you may well be able to spot a Royal or two out and about on a horse. Runnymede, the location of the signing of the Magna Carta is owned by the National Trust and is a short drive away.
Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures are easy to reach, being just off the M25.Heathrow and Gatwick provide 'plane spotting facilities for those so inclined.
News
Dorney Rowing Lake just to the North of Windsor, will be hosting the rowing and canoeing events for the London 2012 Summer Olympics. It will be the largest venue outside London and is expected to attract 250,000 visitors - rowers, officials, press and spectators. Windsor is expected to benefit greatly from the increased visitor numbers, both passing through and renting accommodation for the duration.
