Our guide to Windsor, Berkshire: Royal heritage meets modern living

Rooted in history, Windsor is a vibrant town where culture, nature and connectivity come together to offer an exceptional living experience

Ellie Pryor

15 July 2025

4 mins read

Our guide to Windsor, Berkshire: Royal heritage meets modern living — Windsor Castle © Getty

Windsor comes with quite the royal pedigree - home to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and an official residence of His Majesty The King. A cherished retreat of Queen Elizabeth II, the area held special appeal for the late monarch, thanks in part to its outstanding equestrian facilities. Passionate about horses, she was a regular presence at nearby Royal Ascot, attending almost every year of her reign.

However, you don’t need to be aristocracy to enjoy all that Windsor has to offer. “The area provides a unique blend of historic charm and modern convenience,” says Sion Colenso, Head of Windsor Sales at Knight Frank. “From its incredible green spaces to some of the best schools in the country, there truly is something for everyone.” This appeal is further enhanced by Windsor’s excellent transport links; a fast train whisks you to London in just over 20 minutes, while major motorways like the M4, M25, and M3 are easily accessible, and Heathrow Airport is only a short drive away.

This desirability is reflected in the property market. As of January 2025, Windsor and Maidenhead recorded the second highest average house price in the South East, according to the Office for National Statistics. Join us as we take a tour of this picturesque town and its most sought-after neighbourhoods.

An active lifestyle

Dominating the region is the expansive and peaceful Windsor Great Park, an ancient royal landscape of forests, meadows, lakes, and gardens. With its abundance of play areas and open spaces perfect for everything from dog walks to jogging, there’s activities for the whole family to enjoy. “The Long Walk, a 2.5-mile avenue leading directly to Windsor Castle, offers particularly spectacular and unforgettable views,” says Colenso. He also highlights the town’s prime location on the River Thames, which not only provides a stunning backdrop but opens up a variety of activities, from watersports to leisurely boat trips along the river.

The region is also a vibrant hub for some of the UK’s most prestigious sporting events and clubs. Beyond the world-famous horse racing at Royal Ascot, Windsor is a major centre for polo, notably home to the Guards Polo Club located within Great Windsor Park. Meanwhile, renowned facilities like the nearby Wentworth Golf Club attract enthusiasts and serious players from across the country and beyond. “Access to these exceptional sporting opportunities is a major draw for people relocating here, especially international buyers,” he adds.

Ariel shot of large period home surrounded by fields and trees with a river in the background

A cultural hub

Alongside its historic landmarks, Windsor has a vibrant year-round arts scene, from the diverse programming at the Theatre Royal Windsor to hosting one of the country’s oldest fringe festivals. Its culinary scene is equally thriving. For dining with a view, Colenso recommends The Ivy, conveniently located just steps from Windsor Castle, or the riverside Côte Brasserie. Locals also favour gastropubs like The Boatman, Windsor’s only pub on the river, and The Two Brewers. For those seeking a world-class gastronomic experience, the nearby village of Bray, known for its multiple Michelin-starred restaurants - including two acclaimed ventures by Heston Blumenthal - is just a short drive away.

A top-tier education

The world-renowned Eton College needs little introduction, but it represents just a fraction of the excellent schooling options available in the area, spanning both private and state sectors. Independent schools such as Lambrook School, St John’s Beaumont, and St George’s School, located at the foot of Windsor Castle, are highly regarded. On the state side, Windsor Boys’ School, Windsor Girls’ School, Newlands Girls’ School, Holyport College, and Cranbourne Primary School consistently earn top marks for their quality of education.

Bridge over a river with period homes, apartments and Windsor Castle in the background

Where to live

Central Windsor has a charming mix of period homes and apartments, including elegant Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian properties. The refined townhouses of neighbourhoods like Park Street and Claremont Road are especially sought after. For those looking for more spacious detached homes with generous outdoor areas, prestigious locations such as St Leonard’s Hill and Queen Anne’s Road - both overlooking Windsor Great Park - are highly desirable. Expanding your search to nearby areas like Holyport, Englefield Green or Winkfield reveals even larger properties set on substantial plots of land, perfect for those seeking more privacy and space.