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Windsor Castle, England | A Walking Tour Inside Queen Elizabeth's Castle

Free Tours by Foot - London・39 minutes read

Windsor is a historic town with a thousand years of history, featuring Windsor Castle, home to 39 monarchs, and offering shopping, dining, and historical sites. The castle's rich history, divided into upper, middle, and lower wards, includes state apartments, St. George's Chapel, and significant royal events, making it a notable royal residence and historical landmark.

Insights

  • Windsor, located 23 miles west of London, boasts Windsor Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle globally, home to 39 monarchs and rich in historical significance.
  • The evolution of Windsor Castle, from Norman fortification to royal residence, involves key figures like Edward III establishing the College of St. George, while hosting significant events and notable guests like Nelson Mandela and President Obama.

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Summary

00:00

"Windsor: Historic Town with Royal Castle"

  • Windsor is a historic town with a thousand years of history, located 23 miles west of London.
  • Travel options to Windsor include a 45-minute train journey from Paddington Station to Windsor and Eton Central Station, or a different train from Waterloo Station to Windsor and Eton Riverside Station.
  • Windsor Castle, home to 39 monarchs, is the oldest continuously inhabited castle globally, with Queen Victoria's steam locomotive replica symbolizing her royal journeys.
  • Windsor offers shopping, dining, and historical sites like Guild Hall, the Wonky Shop, and Queen Charlotte Street, known as Britain's shortest street.
  • St. John the Baptist Church, built in 1822, is a Grade 2 listed church with historical significance, including the burial site of local mayors and Queen Victoria's surgeon.
  • The tour includes a walk down Queen Charlotte Street, showcasing the Prince Harry Pub and unique shops like Scotch Stop Whiskies and Chins.
  • Windsor's history dates back to 1070 when construction of the castle began, serving as a Norman fortification to protect London's western approach and provide a hunting ground for royals.
  • Windsor Castle's complex history involves over 40 monarchs, with key figures shaping its evolution into a royal residence and hosting significant royal events.
  • Visitors to Windsor Castle can explore the Lower Ward, Bloody Mary Tower, and Round Tower, with Windsor Wardens in distinctive uniforms offering assistance.
  • The castle's rich history, spanning over a thousand years, is highlighted through the monarchs who influenced its development, making it a significant royal residence and historical landmark.

18:42

"Windsor Castle: History, Royalty, and Prestige"

  • Norman fortifications featured defensive structures like motts and baileys, with wooden keeps initially reinforced by stone.
  • Windsor Castle is divided into three parts: upper, middle, and lower wards, with the upper ward housing state apartments.
  • The stone structure of the castle, initially wooden, was reinforced and rebuilt over time by various monarchs.
  • Henry III improved the castle with a chapel and thick walls for defense against catapult warfare.
  • Edward III established the College of St. George and the Order of the Garter, dedicating St. George's Chapel to the patron saint.
  • The military knights of Windsor reside in the College of St. George, with a significant role in Windsor's history.
  • The castle was occupied during the Civil War by Cromwell's forces, leading to plunder and pillage.
  • St. George's Chapel, completed in 1484, is a royal mausoleum and a significant site for royal celebrations.
  • The State Apartments, renovated by George IV, feature lavish interiors and host state banquets with notable guests.
  • Suite 204 in Windsor Castle overlooks the Long Walk and has hosted esteemed guests like Nelson Mandela and President Obama.

35:54

"Windsor Castle: Royal History and Prestige"

  • The Waterloo Chamber at Windsor Castle commemorates the victory over Napoleon, despite hosting events for the French.
  • Queen Victoria added ceremonial staircases at St. George's Chapel and spent much time in private mourning at Windsor.
  • The royal family changed their name to Windsor during WWI to downplay their Germanic heritage.
  • Significant events like Edward VIII's abdication speech and Princess Margaret's funeral took place at Windsor Castle.
  • The State Apartments and semi-State Apartments are open in winter but not in summer at Windsor Castle.
  • The Queen Mary's Dolls House, a miniature celebration, is currently closed for repairs at Windsor Castle.
  • Windsor Castle is associated with prestigious figures like Prince Harry, Prince William, and Boris Johnson.
  • The State Apartments at Windsor Castle include the Grand Staircase, Waterloo Chamber, Grand Reception Room, and Green Drawing Room.
  • Saint George's Hall at Windsor Castle features military weapons, armor, and the coats of armor of the Knights of the Garter.
  • The Queen's Ballroom, Audience Chamber, King's Drawing Room, and King's Bed Chamber showcase historical and artistic significance at Windsor Castle.
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