Stretching from the iconic Windsor Castle to the magnificent Copper Horse statue, this scenic route offers a blend of natural beauty, architectural splendor, and historical significance. In this guide, we’ll dive into the details of walking Windsor’s Long Walk, providing essential advice to make your journey both enjoyable and memorable.
Local tip: If walking isn’t your thing, carriage rides beginning at Savill Garden will take you from the garden all the way down the Long Walk to the George IV gate and back.
Long Walk Length and Route Overview:
The Long Walk spans approximately 2.6 miles (4.2 kilometers) in length each way, You’ll begin at the George IV Gateway of Windsor Castle and ending at the Copper Horse statue in Windsor Great Park.
What You’ll See:
- Windsor Castle: Your journey starts at Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Marvel at its imposing architecture, fortified walls, and the grandeur of the George IV Gateway.
- The Copper Horse: At the end of the Long Walk is the striking Copper Horse statue, perched atop Snow Hill in Windsor Great Park. This equestrian statue of King George III commemorates his reign and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- The Deer Park: The middle section of the walk will take you through the deer park. Keep an eye out for grazing deer, a common sight in the section of the walk that passes through the deer park.
- Ancient Oak Trees: The Long Walk is flanked by a double row of majestic oak trees, some of which are centuries old. These towering trees provide shade during sunny days and add to the enchanting atmosphere of the route.
Local Tips:
- If you get an early start, you’ll not only have a more peaceful experience, but you’ll likely get to see the beautiful morning mist.
- After taking your obligatory picture at the George IV Gate, look for a gate to the right. From there you can see where the royal ponies graze. You might even be lucky enough to see Emma, the late Queen’s favourite.
- If you are curious where William and Kate live, Adelaide cottage is about .25 miles into the Crown Estate. An access gate (one of many) is a few hundred feet down the Long Walk on the left.
- The Two Brewer’s Pub was once reserved for guards, but now is a charming place to toast post-walk.
- If you fancy a longer walk, turning left or right at the Copper Horse will take you further into the Great Park. Left will take you to the Queen’s Ride, Right will lead you to Savill Garden, the Polo Grounds, and a local favourite pub called the Fox and Hounds.
When Is Best to Go:
The Long Walk is accessible year-round, each season offering its own unique charm. However, the best time to embark on this journey largely depends on your personal preferences and the experience you seek.
- Spring: In spring, the Long Walk comes alive with vibrant foliage, blossoming flowers, and the songs of birds. This season is ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture the beauty of Windsor’s landscape in full bloom.
- Summer: Summer brings warm weather and longer daylight hours, making it an excellent time to explore the Long Walk. The lush greenery and clear skies create a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls and picnics in Windsor Great Park.
- Autumn: As autumn sets in, the foliage along the Long Walk transforms into a kaleidoscope of colour, ranging from fiery reds to golden yellows.
- Winter: While winters in Windsor can be chilly, the Long Walk takes on a magical ambiance during this time. Frost-kissed landscapes, bare trees silhouetted against the sky, and the occasional dusting of snow create a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
How Long It Will Take:
On average, it takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the entire route without prolonged stops. However, to fully appreciate the beauty of Windsor Castle, Windsor Great Park, and the surrounding scenery, consider allowing time at the top of snow hill.
Additional Tips for a Memorable Experience on the Long Walk:
What to know:
- Facilities: There are no refreshment stops along the Long Walk, no rubbish bins and no toilets. Go before you go. Public bathrooms in the town center are in the train stations and below The Guildhall.
- No bicycles: No wheels of any kind other than prams and wheelchairs are allowed on the Long Walk.
- Dogs Allowed: As with nearly everywhere in Britain, dogs are welcome. However, when walking through the deer park, they must be leashed.