Magnificent Windsor Castle Facts Your Kids Would Love To Know

Nestled in the charming town of Windsor, England, the majestic Windsor Castle has stood tall since the 11th century and has been a royal residence for over 900 years. British monarchs have called this place home.

With a stunning view of the River Thames, Windsor Castle isn't just about its historical significance. It is also known for its Gothic designs and enchanting gardens that bloom in vibrant color.

Millions of visitors come to tour this iconic landmark every year and learn about its association with the British monarchy. From royal parties to grand state occasions, the castle is always buzzing with activity. Discover all there is to know about this ancient castle by reading on.

What are the key features of Windsor Castle?

Have you ever wondered what makes Windsor Castle so fabulously royal? Beyond being a royal residence for British monarchs, this castle stands tall as a testament to time and a mix of heritage, style, and epic architecture. Explore these fascinating facts to discover what makes Windsor Castle the crown's glittering gem.

• The Round Tower: The main keep of Windsor Castle, the Round Tower is a beacon of royal heritage, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
• St. George's Chapel: Finished by King Henry VIII in 1528, the chapel is a Gothic masterpiece. This chapel is a spiritual sanctuary and the resting place of numerous kings and queens.
• The State Apartments: Filled with art, tapestries, and ornate furnishings, these rooms which were built for past kings and their families, offer a peek into royal life and are used for hosting state events and other staterooms for official functions.
• The Long Walk: Stretching for approximately 3 mi (4.828 km), the Long Walk was created by King Charles II. This picturesque pathway offers a regal approach to the castle, is lined with trees, and is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• Queen Mary's Dolls' House: Designed by architect Sir Edwin Lutyens between 1921 and 1924 and given to Queen Mary, it is a marvel of craftsmanship. This intricate doll's house is a miniaturized replica of a royal home, down to the tiniest details.

What was the Windsor Castle originally used for?

Windsor Castle wasn't always a place of residence or soirées. Crafted as a motte-and-bailey masterpiece by William the Conqueror, guarding the path to London and Winchester's royal pad, the castle boasts a variety of roles.

From being a defender of the realm to the posh crib of British monarchs, the castle has worn many hats through the ages. Read on to learn facts about Windsor Castle.

• Situated on a hill overlooking the River Thames. Windsor Castle didn't always stand as the grand royal residence we admire today. Its foundation was laid by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, and its primary purpose was to be a powerful military position to protect London's western entrance. The castle's walls were designed to keep watch and protect the realm from potential invasions.
• But Windsor Castle wasn't just about defense. It soon began to evolve into a symbol of royal power and prestige. Kings and queens through the centuries transformed it, adding layers of grandeur, artistry, and comfort. From a stern fortress, it blossomed into a royal home, a place of ceremony, and a treasure trove of history and culture.
• Windsor Castle has been around for over 900 years, making it the world's oldest and largest occupied castle. It's seen many events, from battles to banquets, and is a key symbol of British heritage. The castle is not just a historic site; it's a storyteller of royal history for those who visit.
• One of the oldest surviving parts of Windsor Castle is the Curfew Tower, located at the westernmost point of the castle. It was a component of the new defenses of the castle after the siege of Windsor during King John's reign.
• Apart from housing 39 rulers of England over the span of a millennium, the castle has also served as a social center for political figures. Windsor Castle had even been converted into a prison during the mid-16th century to house prisoners of the Civil War.

The Architecture Of Windsor Castle

With strutting styles from medieval catwalks, Windsor Castle is a mashup of Norman pizzazz, Gothic grandeur, and Renaissance flair. From that standout Round Tower to the glitzy State Apartments, every corner whispers tales of times gone by.

Strut through history by taking a stroll down this architectural avenue and learning about the addition of each monarch, turning the guarded fortress into a royal residential structure.

• It is believed that the castle was erected on the orders of William the Conqueror. Succeeding rulers kept adding sections to the castle and modifying its architecture. As a result, Windsor Castle, as it is seen today, came to be. The castle is almost 1,000 years old today and is one of the longest-occupied royal residences globally.
• Members of the royal family developed an affinity for the castle. As a result, William's grandson, King Henry II, developed it into a palace with two suites: a public one for state officials and the other for the residence of the royal family.
• It was during the rule of King Edward III that the castle took on its present 'Gothic' form. Under his instructions, the castle's interiors were remodeled to create separate quarters for the King and Queen in the private suite.
• The Great Kitchen of Windsor Castle, which is still used to cater to events in the palace, was built during the reign of King Edward III.
• A long gallery that overlooks the North Terrace was built when Queen Elizabeth I took the throne during the 15th century. In the 19th century, this became a part of Windsor's Royal Library.
• King Charles II rebuilt the palace with extravagant Baroque interiors after recapturing Windsor Castle after the Civil War.
• The dramatic 2.64 mi (4.3 km) driveway called the Long Walk was also commissioned by him. The Long Walk stretches from the castle to the Great Park, creating an impression of grandeur and glamour for visitors.
• According to historian John Martin Robinson, the infamous St. George's Chapel within the castle is a fine example of English Perpendicular Gothic architecture.
• The only major architectural change during the Tudor era was the addition of St. George's Chapel, which was commissioned by Edward IV and completed by Henry III.
• Queen Victoria made minor revisions to the castle, including the restoration of a royal mausoleum that was originally constructed by Henry VII. She named it Albert Memorial Chapel in memory of her husband, Prince Albert.

The Parks In Windsor Castle

While Windsor's claim to fame might be its jaw-dropping castle, it's also blooming with hidden gems. Often nicknamed the 'city of roses', Windsor isn't just about royal walls.

Beyond the castle's shadows lie lush royal apartments and fragrant rose parks, just waiting for you to wander through. And those royal parks? They're the unsung heroes, often missed by visitors and tourists.

• Windsor Great Park is a royal park that spans an expanse of 1,942 ha (4,800 acres). The park was originally a reserved hunting ground for the royals, who supplied the castle with wood and fish.
• Lake Virginia is a man-made lake in Windsor Great Park. Prior to the construction of reservoirs, it was England's biggest artificial lake. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including swans, geese, and ducks.
• Ringed by a mix of native and exotic trees, you can spot a Roman temple, an ornamental waterfall, and a 100 ft (30.5 m) totem pole around the lake.
• There are several blooming gardens in the park, such as the Valley Garden. The Valley Garden was established in the '40s and has the likes of azaleas, magnolias, sweet gums, Asiatic rowans, and exotic oaks.
• Windsor Great Park also houses the infamous Savill Garden, which was initiated by George V and gives visitors a different mix of blooms throughout the year. The garden is a combination of contemporary and classical garden designs.
• The Home Park, originally called Little Park, is a 31 ha (76.6 acres) space that was once part of the private grounds of Windsor Castle. Queen Victoria authorized its use for public recreation in 1851.
• The Home Park includes features such as the Frogmore Estate and the grave of Dash, a favored gun dog of Queen Victoria.

The Unique Features Of Windsor Castle

When World War II was in full swing, Windsor Castle became a hideout for the late Queen Elizabeth II and her sister, Princess Margaret. Approximated to be about 21 mi (33.796 km) from London, this royal pad became more than just a home; it was a beacon of safety during some really intense times.

Read on to discover the secret life of this royal castle.

• The State Apartments are well-furnished rooms first built for Charles II and his Queen. The Semi-State Rooms in the State Apartments were used by the late Queen Elizabeth II for formal events.
• The Grand Reception Room, with its stunning chandeliers and upholstery, is one of the main attractions among the State Apartments.
• The Grand Reception Room used to be the main ballroom back in the day, and it showcases a rare malachite urn that was gifted to Queen Victoria by Czar Nicholas. Such urns are rarely found outside of Russia.
• Another interesting room is the Waterloo Chamber. Built for George IV, this chamber was built to celebrate Britain's victory over Napoleon Bonaparte at Waterloo.
• The Waterloo Chamber is where the pantomime pictures are displayed. Originally, the chamber was lined with a series of portraits by Sir Thomas Lawrence. During World War II, Claude Whatham, a young art student, created colorful pantomime ornamentation to beautify the Waterloo Chamber.
• St. George's Hall is where State Banquets and formal dinners are held. The hall was destroyed in the 1992 fire but has been completely restored since.
• The roof of St. George's Hall features the coat of arms of every Knight of the Garter, an order established in 1348. You will also find the figure of a horseman atop a steed at its east end, known as the King's Champion.

Things To Do At Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle has been rolling out the red carpet for guests since 1925. The late Queen Elizabeth II liked to spend her weekends at Windsor Castle.

Although the palace stays closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, there's a world to discover. The State Apartments showcase art, there are beautiful gardens, and St. George's Chapel is where many British monarchs have been married and buried. Windsor Castle isn't just a visit; it's a journey back in time that you won't forget soon.

• The first thing you should do when you arrive at Windsor Castle is book a Precincts Tour. This lasts about 30 minutes and gives you an overview of the castle's history and present significance.
• Make sure to visit the stunning architectural marvel that is St. George's Chapel. This chapel has witnessed many royal weddings, including those of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and Prince William and Kate Middleton, and notable royal family burials like those of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and Prince Albert. Some of its striking features are its stone ceiling and the marble memorial for Princess Charlotte.
• St. George's Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays due to continuous services going on. However, worshippers are welcome to attend.
• Another visual display you should try to catch is Changing the Guard. This is the handover of duties between two sets of Household Troops, who have been the 'guards' of the monarchy since the reign of Henry VII.
• Queen Mary's Dolls' House is the world's largest dollhouse. It was created by the architect Edward Lutyens as a present for Queen Mary, wife of King George V, and took over 1,500 artists and manufacturers to complete.
• The elaborate dollhouse has meticulously designed elements, including a full library of books handwritten by some of the most renowned writers of the time. It even has running water and electricity. You won't find a better time capsule of '20s Britain than this.
• If you have a flair for theater, be sure to book a viewing of the Princesses' Pantomimes. These costumes were designed for teenage princesses Elizabeth and Margaret to take part in wartime pantomimes. Currently, they are on display in the Waterloo Chamber.
• Apart from the unique features of the castle, a stroll through the parks and gardens would be a great addition to a family outing.
• If you have spare time, take a look around the quaint town of Windsor. The cobbled streets, colorful shops, and traditional pubs of this old town are a good escape from the bustle of daily life.

Windsor Castle is where tales of monarchs, secret passages, and centuries-old secrets come alive. It is a living, breathing chapter of history that's eagerly waiting to share its secrets with young, curious minds.

The grandeur might have you wide-eyed, but remember, it can get crowded during peak times. So, maybe plan a weekday visit? With gardens to wander and ancient walls whispering stories, your little ones will be history buffs in no time.

Why not make a family day out of it? Let Windsor Castle spark a lifetime of curiosity in you!