Visiting Ascot Outside Racing Season
A visit to Ascot in Berkshire for the races is always a great day out, but this part of England offers so much for a visit at any time of the year. Windsor and its surroundings are home to some incredible attractions, from historic sites to beautiful nature and great family adventures.
Windsor's most famous feature dominates the town's skyline, with the imposing Round Tower rising above everything. It's been the home of 39 monarchs since its founding by William the Conqueror, and is said to be the Queen's favourite residence.
Take a tour of the grounds and the outer ward, including the incredible St George's Chapel - where the duke and duchess of Sussex recently married. The interior of the castle itself gives you access to the lavish State Apartments, where you'll also find the famous Queen Mary's Dolls House.
Windsor is surrounded by beautiful parkland, including the ancient hunting grounds of English kings, Windsor Great Park. This vast piece of countryside is home to lots of beautiful walking trails, bridleways, and perfectly landscaped vistas, as well as around 500 deer.
At the edge of the park is the colossal statue of George III, marking the termination of the two-and-a-half-mile long walk from the gates of the castle.
Within the grounds of Windsor Castle is Frogmore House, built on land originally purchased by Henry VIII, and later a home to various members of the royal family such as Queen Victoria's mother and children. The present Queen spent part of her honeymoon there after her marriage to Prince Philip.
The beautiful house can be visited at a few select times of the year, though sadly the Royal Mausoleum, the final resting place of Victoria and Albert, is no longer open to visitors.
For the perfect kid-friendly visit, a trip to Legoland Windsor is a must. The park has evolved into a full resort, with hotels and several different themed lands around Vikings, knights, pirates and more. In Miniland you can see landmarks and street scenes from Europe recreated in Lego from St Paul's Cathedral to the Eiffel Tower.
The modern Lego lines are also represented, with the high tech Ninjago ride and plenty of Star Wars Lego displays.
Just outside the castle itself is this beautiful Edwardian theatre, with a full programme of plays and touring acts for a perfect evening's entertainment.
One of the UK's most famous and loved theatres, and well-respected for its quality, its programme includes West End productions, seasonal pantomimes, many brand new plays and performances.
Take a look at Berkeley Group's beautiful homes at Brompton Gardens, just a stone's throw away from Ascot's high street and woodland areas.