Steeped in royal history and tradition, the Castle Hotel in Windsor is the perfect place to stay in the town centre.
Windsor is one of the most quintessentially English places you can visit in Great Britain. While Windsor Castle is the main attraction, the town is also packed full of cute tea rooms, historic wonky houses, swans swimming on the River Thames, and more Royal Family memorabilia than you’ll be able to squeeze into your suitcase. When I say it’s quintessentially English, I really mean it!
Around 1.5 million tourists visit Windsor Castle each year alone, making it one of the most popular places to visit in England.
If you’re looking for a base for your time in the town, I’d recommend the Castle Hotel. This historic hotel is one of the best hotels in Windsor town centre. Being so close to everything means I could pop out and do all the top things to do in Windsor, without the crowds. My hotel room even boasted amazing views of Windsor Castle! What more could you want?!
If you’re thinking of booking an overnight stay in Windsor, I’d really recommend staying somewhere like this. I’ll share all the details in my review, along with plenty of photos.
Hotel Review: The Castle Hotel, Windsor
The history of the Castle Hotel, Windsor
Located just two minutes from Windsor Castle, the Castle Hotel is one of the top-rated hotels in Windsor.
While the hotel is located in one of the town’s oldest buildings, it actually began life in 1528 as The Mermaid Inn. This was a small inn producing beer and cider for local people. Back then, Windsor was a small village of just 1,000 people.
However, in the 1700s the hotel was awarded its first Royal Warrant (today there are eight). The warrant was to provide horses and carriages for the royal household across the road. Soon after, the hotel grew to become one of the grandest hotels in town
In the 19th century, the reputation of the hotel continued to grow, particularly after the Duke of Wellington stepped in to dine here after his victory over Napoleon at the battle of Waterloo. To say this place has a rich history is an understatement!
Today, the hotel still has the same old-fashioned grandeur, but with a modern twist. Just walking around, you get such a sense of the history. There are portraits and paintings, vintage furniture and antiques.
I loved the modern touches that bring it into the 21st century. The bar is particularly modern with a sleek design – the perfect place for an after dinner drink.
The rooms at the Castle Hotel
There are 108 contemporary styled rooms at the Castle Hotel Windsor, many with stunning views of Windsor Castle.
All of the rooms have giant king size beds which we completely lost ourselves in. There was a bath too, and lots of luxurious furnishings.
Considering this hotel is in the heart of town, we found it to be very quiet. We slept really well!
The Castle Hotel restaurant
Downstairs is the hotel’s restaurant, Leaf. This is the same place the Duke of Wellington had his dinner – I doubt he had steak as good as this though!
This modern restaurant served elegant dishes, mostly ticking the traditional British favourites box!
You’ll see steaks, wellingtons, lamb shanks and a some tasty vegetarian options. We couldn’t resist the steak, which came with fat chips and a delicious bearnaise sauce.
For dessert, we were deciding between apple tart, sticky toffee pudding and a few other crowd-pleasers! I couldn’t say no to the sticky toffee pudding. Naughty, delectable, but downright delicious!
The hotel is also famous for its Royal Afternoon Tea. It comes with home-baked scones, sweet treats and a selection of finger sandwiches. There’s even a version for children. Or, if you’re celebrating, you can add in some bubbles to make things a little more special.
Best Things To Do In Windsor
If you’re staying at the Castle Hotel, here are a few local activities to enjoy.
Visit Windsor Castle
This is a fact that I never get bored of. Windsor Castle is the oldest AND largest inhabited castle in the world. It was built just after the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and it’s been the home to 39 monarchs since then.
One of the best things to do in Windsor is to buy a ticket to the castle, where you can learn all about its history, while seeing where the King lives. Usually there are some fascinating exhibitions on display detailing the history of the Royal Family. If you are into your Royals then this is an absolute must while you’re here.
Also, as I’ve already mentioned, if you stay at the Castle Hotel then Windsor Castle is just a two-minute walk away. It really is that close.
A ticket for Windsor Castle costs £31 per person. This is such an amazing way of learning more about the castle and I’d really recommend it.
Stroll along the Long Walk
Another thing I’d really recommend doing while in Windsor is the Long Walk. This is a 2.65 mile path that leads from Windsor Castle all the way to the top of Snow Hill.
The path takes you along a tree-lined avenue that really illustrates the regal grandeur of the Royal heritage of Windsor Great Park.
At the top of Snow Hill is a stature of The Copper Horse. This is a statue to King George IV pointing at his favourite castle in England – Windsor Castle.
From this vantage point, you’ll have a great view of Windsor Great Park and the castle. I know the 5-mile round trip sounds like a lot, but I promise you it’s worth it just for the views.
Also, it helps work off that steak you had the night before! Or was that just me?
Enjoy a boat trip on the River Thames
Another thing I always recommend people do while in Windsor is to go on a boat trip along the River Thames.
There are a few different companies to choose from but we went with French Brothers and they were great.
My boat trip took me past Eton College, Mill House and Windsor Racecourse with some stunning views of the English countryside.
On the way back you’ll see a stunning view of Windsor Castle too. Personally, this is one of my favourite views of Windsor so make sure you’ve got your camera ready.
Tickets cost £13 for adults and £8.70 for children, although prices are cheaper if you book online in advance.
Booking the Castle Hotel
I really enjoyed my stay at the Castle Hotel in Windsor.
From royal memorabilia in the rooms to the portraits in the lounge, this is a place steeped in history and tradition. Also, it’s rare to find a hotel in Windsor that’s this close to the castle. Add in a cool bar, great restaurant and spacious rooms, and you’ve got all the makings of an amazing staycation!
