'The Windsor & Eton Venturer'
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Its rich history spans more than 900 years.
Try the heritage walking trail, which takes you from Windsor Castle, across the River Thames, to Eton College
www.etoncollege.com and allows you to discover 1,000 years of history. The historic core of Windsor has grown up over the centuries in
the shadow of the castle, with each successive monarch leaving an impression on the town.
Starting on the cobbled streets, known as Guildhall Island, there are many interesting buildings
dating from as early as the 17th century. The Old Kings Head, in Church Street, bears
a plaque on its wall recording the warrant for the exuction of Charles I in 1648 . Just a few doors along is Burford
House, reputed to be where Charles II housed Nell Gwynne, his favourite mistress! Queen Charlotte
Street is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as the shortest street in Britain at just 51 feet, 10 inches. The
Crooked House Tea Rooms, originally a private house, is thought to have been built in 1687, the leaning appearance
was caused by the use of unseasoned timbers and later constructional changes. The Windsor Guildhall, was
completed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1690. Look closely and the central columns do not touch the ceiling. The tradition
has it that the Councillors of the time insisted on the columns in the interests of safety, Sir Chrisopher Wren
not to be outdone, left the columns an inch short of ther ceiling! Windsor Royal Station (Central) is grand
and was built in 1849 by the Great Western Railway to provide access to the railway for Queen Victoria. Just before
Windsor Bridge is Sir Christopher Wren's House. The famous architect built the house for
his family in 1676, he served as the Member of Parliament for Old Windsor, and his father was Dean of Windsor. Windsor Bridge
was built in the rein of Henry III, originally of wood, the present bridge was opened in 1823, but was pedestrianised in 1970
due to structural problems. Crossing the bridge, you can see the Eton College Boathouses, much of the land adjoining
the bustling river here with its pleasure craft is owned by Eton College.
Eton High Street is packed with select shops - boutiques, antique shops.
For further details try The Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead