No trip to Windsor would be complete without a visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Stepping onto the grounds, I felt the weight of history all around me.
I enjoyed my visit to Windsor Castle. This was my second visit, but first in over ten years. The staff were friendly and helpful. The stunning architecture and rich history are truly captivating. I chose the first time slot of the day, but it was still crowded.
Traveler’s Note: No photographs are allowed inside the Castle or within St George’s Chapel.
State Apartments
The State Apartments were elegantly adorned for the Christmas season, featuring a stunning array of twinkling lights and lush garlands that drape gracefully over the ornate furniture.
The ceremonial rooms are the main State Apartments used by the Royal Family today. These opulent spaces host official visits from Heads of State and prestigious investiture ceremonies, where individuals are recognized for their outstanding achievements.
Adorned with exquisite furnishings, these rooms embody royal tradition while celebrating the remarkable contributions of people from all walks of life.
The historic rooms were my favorite. In the 17th century, King Charles II aimed to match the splendor of Versailles, modernizing the Castle’s interiors into the grandest State Apartments in England.
The stunning painted ceilings by Antonio Verrio, filled with vibrant colors and intricate designs, alongside the exquisite wood carvings by Grinling Gibbons, enhance the elegance and historical significance of these remarkable spaces.
Each room is a warm embrace of festive colors, with rich reds and greens complementing the sumptuous gold accents. Glimmering ornaments hang delicately from the ceiling, and the fragrance of fresh pine fills the air, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Everywhere you look, there are intricate holiday displays, each one telling its own story of a magical Christmas celebration.
Windsor Castle Fire
As I wandered through the State Rooms, the audio commentary unfolded the tragic tale of the Windsor Castle Fire.
On November 20, 1992, a devastating fire erupted, ravaging 115 rooms, including nine State Rooms. The blaze, ignited by a faulty spotlight in Queen Victoria’s Private Chapel, quickly spread to St George’s Hall, inflicting a deep wound on British heritage.
The fire was extinguished by November 21, marking the beginning of a lengthy restoration. St George’s Hall was meticulously rebuilt to embody its 14th-century splendor, enhanced by a new hammer-beam roof crafted from sustainable English oak, using age-old techniques.
The restoration concluded on November 20, 1997, precisely five years after the fire and coinciding with the golden wedding anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh—a powerful testament to resilience in the face of loss.
Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
Exploring the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House is always a fav. Each time I step inside this miniature masterpiece, I’m captivated by the exquisite details that really set it apart. The furniture is not only beautifully crafted but also richly varied, showcasing different styles from the era, with intricate carvings and stunning finishes.
Seriously, the carpets, curtains and furnishings are all copies of the real thing; many of the doors, cupboards and cabinets have functioning locks. They actually have locks that work! I mean, I could finally keep my snacks safe from any lurking housemates.
Illuminated by working electric lights and adorned with charming bells, the home’s ambiance is both enchanting and inviting. I imagined being an honored guest as I stared at the intricate details.
Can’t forget about the bathrooms, which were built with actual plumbing, complete with running water and even a flushable toilet that comes with its very own flushable miniature toilet paper. Adorable, right?
According to the audio commentary, the water’s been turned off for conservation and environmental reasons, which has me feeling a bit like I’m in a quirky historical drama. Still, I can’t help but chuckle at the idea of living in a house that’s both a modern marvel and a time capsule!
The library contains nearly 600 books, many of which were handwritten by the most famous authors of the time, including J.M. Barrie, John Buchan, G.K. Chesterton, Joseph Conrad, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, John Galsworthy, Robert Graves, Thomas Hardy, Aldous Huxley, Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham, A.A. Milne and Vita Sackville-West.
I enjoyed learning more about the ongoing maintenance of this remarkable dollhouse. The audio commentary highlighted the dedication and care that goes into preserving its intricate details and charming design.
Regular upkeep involves dusting the delicate furniture and accessories to prevent wear and tear, as well as checking for any repairs needed on the miniature structures and walls.
The maintenance process also involves refreshing faded paint and checking that miniature lights and electrical components work properly. Seasonal updates can include redecorating rooms to celebrate holidays and adding creativity and engagement to upkeep.
This dedication not only beautifies the dollhouse but ensures it remains a cherished centerpiece for generations.
Great Kitchen
Truthfully, I only visit the castle this time for the rare opportunity to explore the magnificent Great Kitchen, a space that sings with history.
To me, the kitchen is the heart of any home, and European castles showcase some of the most impressive ones.
The Royal Kitchens at Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, Denmark, dazzled me. Henry VIII’s Kitchen at Hampton Court Palace offered a glimpse into the regal indulgence of the 16th century.
Windsor Castle’s Great Kitchen is the oldest working kitchen in the country. Built during the reign of Edward III, it has been in use for over 750 years.
As I stepped inside, I was instantly awed by its colossal size and enveloped by the lingering aromas of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and rich sauces. It was easy for me to imagine royal staff bustling about, preparing lavish feasts for kings and queens.
Our guide shared captivating anecdotes about legendary chefs and their extravagant menus, which truly painted a vivid picture in my mind of vibrant dinner parties filled with laughter and the clinking of goblets.
For me, this kitchen felt like more than just a place for food; it was a vibrant hub of culture and celebration, where every meal was a testament to artistry and tradition.
St George’s Chapel
I stood in awe as I gazed upon St George’s Chapel, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture that began construction in 1475 under the reign of Edward IV.
Its intricate stone carvings, soaring spires, and beautiful stained glass windows create an atmosphere of reverence and history.
I couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence. The chapel is home to the tombs of 11 monarchs, including George VI, Henry VIII, and Charles I.
I shed a few tears when I passed Queen Elizabeth II’s tomb. I still miss her.
A Rewarding Exploration
The atmosphere at Windsor Castle left me with a profound sense of history, and I always leave feeling a deeper connection to the past.
Although I didn’t initially want to visit the castle during my Royal Windsor Weekend, I’m glad I did.
The castle, steeped in history, offered me an unexpected glimpse into the grandeur of the past and an enriching connection to the stories that shaped it. It was more than just a visit; it was an exploration that ignited my curiosity and appreciation for history.
If you’re ever on the fence about an adventure, I encourage you to take that leap! You might just discover something extraordinary that resonates with your own journey.
Remember, the experiences that challenge us often leave the most rewarding impressions. So go ahead — say yes to the unexpected and let the magic of discovery unfold before you!
Until next time …
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