Windsor Great Park is a large historic parkland south of Windsor, with walking trails, gardens, lakes and a deer park. Follow the Long Walk towards the Copper Horse statue for views back to Windsor Castle, or explore Virginia Water, where the Cascade waterfall and Leptis Magna Roman ruins are among the sights. Valley Gardens is known for its azaleas and rhododendrons in late spring. The park is free to enter; Savill Garden has a separate charge, and the grounds are extensive enough to explore at different spots on separate visits.
A royal parkland open to the public
Windsor Great Park lies south of Windsor Castle and covers more than 4,800 acres. The grounds were once a royal hunting area. Today, visitors can explore walking trails, ancient woodland, gardens, lakes and a deer park. The park is managed and funded by the Crown Estate.
There is no single route through the whole park. Its main areas include the Long Walk and Deer Park, Virginia Water, Valley Gardens and Savill Garden. The distances between sights mean you can choose one area for a shorter outing or plan a longer day outdoors. The park is free to enter, while Savill Garden charges separately.
The Long Walk and Windsor Castle views
The Long Walk is a tree-lined avenue running from the gates of Windsor Castle towards the Copper Horse statue of King George III on Snow Hill. The route is about 2.7 miles. Its tarmac surface is smooth and even, but it does not reach the statue itself; a road continues through the Deer Park towards Bishopsgate or Rangers Gate.
Snow Hill is the park’s highest point, and the route gives views towards Windsor Castle. The trail has gradual climbs and descents. Other paths use grass or sand, and can become muddy after rain. There are no stiles on the trail described, though you may encounter deer gates.
Virginia Water, Valley Gardens and Savill Garden
Virginia Water combines a lake circuit with several sights, including the Cascade waterfall and Leptis Magna Roman ruins. The park also has Cow Pond and a deer park where red deer roam. Wildlife can be seen around the lakes, so take care to observe animals without disturbing them.
Valley Gardens is a seasonal draw. Azaleas and rhododendrons flower in late spring, while magnolias and other spring flowers add colour earlier in the season. Savill Garden has a separate entry charge and includes the Queen Elizabeth Temperate House, Golden Jubilee Garden and Rose Garden. Spring Wood, within Savill Garden, is another place to look for bluebells.
Häufige Fragen
Is Windsor Great Park free to enter?
The park is free to visit. Savill Garden has a separate charge.
How long is the Long Walk?
The Long Walk is about 2.7 miles. It runs from the Windsor Castle gates towards the Copper Horse statue, but does not reach the statue itself.
When is the best time to see flowers in Windsor Great Park?
Late spring is a good time to see azaleas and rhododendrons in Valley Gardens. Bluebells flower in Spring Wood at Savill Garden.
Can you see deer in Windsor Great Park?
The park has a deer park where red deer roam. Wildlife can also be seen by the lakes.
