Home » 13 Things to do in Windsor in Autumn
things to do in windsor in autumn

13 Things to do in Windsor in Autumn

by Macca

Experience Windsor in autumn with stunning park walks, fireworks, ghost tours, and other events – the perfect seasonal escape for all ages.

I’m not going to lie, I think autumn in Windsor is such a beautiful time of the year. Once the autumn colours come through, places like Windsor Great Park and the Long Walk look like they could be a film set, especially on those early morning or late evening walks with the light filtering through the trees.

There is so much going on in Windsor at this time of year. You’ve got “Brick or Treat” at Legoland, ghost walks for Halloween, bonfire night at Windsor Race Course, and that’s just to get you started. In this blog post I’m going to cover all the best things to do in Windsor in autumn, so if you’re planning on visiting around this time of year, this is the guide for you.

I think one of the best reasons to visit Windsor during autumn is it’s so much quieter. A lot of tourist attractions like Windsor Castle and Legoland feel noticeably less busy at this time of the year, so that’s a real bonus too.

Keep reading to discover all the must-see events, walks, and seasonal treats that make autumn in Windsor truly magical.

Watch the fireworks

fireworks

Is there any event in autumn bigger than the fireworks night? If there is I don’t want to know about it. Bonfire night is one of my favourite nights of the year. It was always a big tradition in my family growing up, and we always went out to celebrate bonfire night (mainly for the fireworks as opposed to burning Guido Fawkes at the stake – my parents weren’t that macabre). Add in hot chocolate, sparklers and big colourful explosions, and it’s very kids’ dream night.

The big event is at Royal Windsor Racecourse on Saturday 1st November. This is Halloween crossed with bonfire night to make it a Spooky Spectacular Fireworks. There will be rides, food stalls, candy apples, the whole shebang. This should be one of the best places to watch fireworks in Windsor.

Visit Windsor Castle

windsor castle at autumn
Windsor Castle is particularly special in autumn

Visiting Windsor Castle in autumn has a completely different feel compared to summer. The crowds are smaller, the air is crisp, and the castle grounds look magical framed by the golden leaves.

We’ve been to Windsor Castle a few times now, and the fact you can beat the crowds during autumn is a huge factor. It really is so much quieter during this time of year. It’s still busy, but it’s not penguins-marching-in-a-line busy.

If you’re thinking of visiting the castle, then make sure you read our guide for first-time visitors. This guide is packed full of useful information, so check it out.

Enjoy “Brick or Treat” at Legoland

Why visit Legoland during autumn? Again, it’s a lot quieter. That goes without saying. Gone are the peak summer queues, so you can jump on your favourite rides with far less waiting around (always a win if you’ve got impatient little ones).

The other main factor is there are some fantastic events during autumn. Around October, Legoland hosts their “Brick or Treat” Halloween event, which means spooky decorations, themed shows, and plenty of LEGO pumpkins. It’s a great way to combine a fun day out with some seasonal excitement. You can get your Legoland Windsor tickets HERE.

Capture the autumn colours along the Long Walk

You can even see these guys on the Long Walk

Next to the castle, the Long Walk is a great place to capture the autumn colours and the changing leaves. Early mornings are my favourite, with a little mist rolling in and the soft light filtering through the trees. Even the Thames Path looks beautiful this time of year, with golden leaves drifting into the river.

Another spot I absolutely love is the Copper Horse statue at the top of Snow Hill. This is one of the highest points in Windsor, so you’ll have the best panoramic views with all the trees red, orange and yellow. You really do get to see all those autumn colours from up here, so I’d really recommend it.

See the autumn display at The Savill Gardens

If there’s one place in Windsor that absolutely comes alive in autumn, it’s The Savill Garden. From late September through October, the grounds are awash with fiery reds, deep crimsons, and glowing golds. The maples in the Autumn Wood are a real showstopper, and the crisp air makes wandering the winding paths even more refreshing.

It’s quieter than the summer months, so you can really take your time soaking in the colours – and maybe even enjoy a coffee on the terrace overlooking the gardens. For photographers, this is prime leaf-peeping season right here in the heart of Windsor Great Park.

Run Windsor Half-marathon

windsor half marathon
Windsor Half-marathon is a great event

September in Windsor isn’t just about autumn colours – it’s also race season. The Windsor Women’s 10 km (27 September) is an uplifting, all-female run starting and finishing on the Long Walk, with the castle as a stunning backdrop.

The next day, the Windsor Half-marathon (28 September) takes runners on a scenic tour of Windsor Great Park, past landmarks like the Copper Horse and Queen Elizabeth II statue. Both events have a buzzing race village with food, drink, and entertainment, making them brilliant days out whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines. I am running the Windsor Half-marathon this year, so I’ll see you at the start line!

Visit one of the breweries

indie rabble brewery
There is never a bad time for one of these

I never need an excuse to visit one of the breweries. Two Flints and Indie Rabble is one of my favourite spots in town. If it’s a particularly cold or blustery day, or dare I say it, even raining, then I’d really recommend popping into Two Flints or Windsor & Eton Brewery. They are great for sinking a couple of beers while catching up with a mate.

At Windsor & Eton Brewery, their brewery tours are still running in autumn, so you can learn all about their brewing process before sampling a pint or two.

You can find out all about the best breweries in Windsor in my blog post HERE.

Enjoy Oktoberfest at Windsor Racecourse

Think beer steins, bratwurst and brass bands – they’re bringing Bavaria to Berkshire this October. At Royal Windsor Racecourse on 10–11 October, the Paddock Lawn transforms into a rustic juice tent, complete with Oompah band, traditional games like stein-holding and Bavarian bingo, and even a best-dressed contest for dirndls and lederhosen.

Expect hearty schnitzel, giant pretzels, sauerkraut and beer served in proper steins. Whether you’re there for the food, the fun, or just the festive atmosphere, it’s the perfect autumn event to nab a ticket for. Prost!

Go on a ghost walk

Fancy a spine-tingling stroll after dark? The High Spirits! Ghost Walk is the perfect Halloween treat for older kids and adults. Led by storyteller Debbie Keenan, you’ll walk the shadowy streets of Windsor, learning about hangings, hauntings in Great Park, and even a royal ghost sighting by the late Queen.

The walk begins at Windsor & Eton Riverside Station and lasts around an hour and a half. Advanced booking is essential. Just imagine autumn evening chills, flickering lamplight, and ghost stories echoing through Windsor- plus all the local legends that make this town feel wonderfully mysterious.

Have a magical night at Windsor Illuminated

This just squeezes into autumn for me. From mid-November to early January, Windsor Great Park transforms into a glowing wonderland for Windsor Illuminated. The trail winds through Savill Garden, with sparkling light displays, glowing fountains, and enchanting woodland scenes that feel straight out of a fairytale. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the park after dark.

Along the way, you can warm up with mulled wine, hot chocolate, and toasted marshmallows from cosy food stalls. The trail takes around 90 minutes and is perfect for an early evening family outing. Just remember to book timed-entry tickets in advance – this magical event is hugely popular with locals and visitors alike.

Tuck into an afternoon tea

afternoon tea

Autumn is the perfect season to slow down and enjoy a cosy afternoon tea in Windsor. The Ivy, with its elegant interiors and indulgent menu, is a real treat – think delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, and beautifully crafted cakes.

For something more traditional and intimate, head to Clarence Brasserie, a charming family-run spot tucked away near Windsor Castle. Their homemade bakes and relaxed atmosphere make it feel like a real hidden gem. On a crisp autumn day, nothing beats warming up with a pot of tea and a plate of something sweet while watching Windsor go by.

Go to a traditional pub

two brewers windsor pub
The Two Breweries is a classic

This is another rainy day activity in Windsor. Not that it needs a rainy day to visit the pub, but there is something so comforting about cosying up inside when the weather is rubbish.

The Two Brewers is a classic – tucked away near the top of the Long Walk, it’s perfect for a post-walk pint. Or head to The Horse & Groom opposite the Castle for something central. Think pints of real ale, classic pies, and sticky toffee pudding for dessert. It’s the kind of slow, simple pleasure that makes Windsor in autumn feel so warm and welcoming.

Enjoy a weekend away

Casle hotel windsor interior

This is if you’re looking for an indulgent weekend away. You know, a bit of quiet time. Sounds nice, doesn’t it? Boutique hotels like The Christopher Wren Hotel or The Castle Hotel make for such lovely stays. Then you can really immerse yourself in Windsor and discover a bit more than just on a day trip.

You can spend your days exploring autumn walks, charming cafes and a restaurant or two. Then you can pop back to the hotel and relax.

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