Changing Perceptions on Sight Loss in Style
From its 11th century castle, to scenic riverside cruises and foodie spots – here’s how I spent 24 hours in Windsor.
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Known for its links to the Royal Family and its castle with parts dating back to the 11th century, Windsor is a popular day‑trip or weekend staycation destination. It’s just an hour from London by train from Waterloo.
I recently visited with my mum and my guide dog Rosie. Over the course of 24 hours, we stayed at a central hotel, explored Windsor Castle with a guided tour, enjoyed tactile experiences as a visually impaired visitor, took a scenic cruise along the River Thames, and sampled some of Windsor’s best foodie spots.
For our base we stayed at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel, just a stone’s throw away from Windsor Castle in a central location within a few minutes’ walk of many restaurants, pubs and bars.
One coveted aspect of staying at the hotel is its great vantage point to see the Changing of the Guard, which takes place at 11:00 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays year‑round, and daily (except Sundays) during April to July. The Guards march from Victoria Barracks at 10:45 am and the ceremony finishes around 11:45 am.
We stayed in a twin room with two comfortable beds, air‑conditioned rooms, a spacious walk‑in shower and amenities like an iron, fridge and television.
They also serve a buffet‑style breakfast consisting of cooked and cold options. The hotel is accessible with step‑free access, as well as a lift to all floors and the lobby.
One of the main draws to visiting Windsor for Brits and tourists alike is Windsor Castle, with parts dating back as far as William the Conqueror. The castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and has been home to 40 monarchs.
The castle is a working residence, meaning that large parts of it are occupied by the Royal Family for state events and celebrations.
During our visit we were taken around by our lovely tour guide Amanda Bryett from Windsor Tourist Guides Ltd, alongside staff from the Royal Collection Trust. They told us about the castle and provided me with a number of tactile objects to feel, including salvaged wooden beams and fabrics damaged in the 1992 fire.
Audio guides are also provided, and tour groups can book comprehensive model touch tours, where scale models of the castle are brought out to handle.
If you want to handle some objects in the State Rooms as a visually impaired person, you are advised to notify the castle of your visit, but you can also request them on the day at the entrance.
Your ticket includes a visit to the State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and St George’s Chapel, where Queen Elizabeth II and Henry VIII are buried amongst other members of the Royal Family.
If you plan on visiting during the week, you can also attend Evensong at 5pm at the chapel entrance, where you can listen to the choir singing.
Another must‑do activity for me was a boat trip with The Boat Hire Company, where I boarded Fringilla, one of their vintage wooden boats, for an hour‑long cruise up the Thames.
During the cruise you get to sit back and take in the sights, with fantastic photo opportunities including a view of Windsor Castle from the river.
At this time of year you can see plenty of wildlife, and you can also bring a picnic to eat onboard if you fancy making a day of it.
This activity is an absolute must‑do, with hour slots starting at £120. The boat seats up to 12 people, making it a great activity for friends, family or if you are celebrating.
If you, like me, are a foodie, Windsor is home to many quaint pubs, bars as well as tearooms and restaurants all vying for your attention.
The Ivy Royal Windsor Brasserie
– A fantastic location if you want incredible views of the Castle mixed with stunning interiors. They serve a selection of cocktails as well as a set menu where you can get two courses for around £17.95.
The tuna, half‑baked cookie and cheesecake were some of my absolute favourites. The restaurant is spacious, making it a great place if you’re bringing your guide dog and need enough room to sit down.
Herradura
– A quirky little bar just opposite the Macdonald Hotel, serving tequila cocktails in an 18th‑century crooked house.
Clarence Tea Rooms
– A great spot for tea, cake and lunch.
All in all, Windsor is well worth a visit whether you just have a day to spend or want to make a weekend of it. Its mix of history, scenery and foodie spots makes it one of my top picks when it comes to a trip that is easily and quickly accessible from London.
