Windsor

Notes for Guides

Before the trip

Ensure you have the group register and emergency contact numbers for all leaders and students
Make sure students have plenty of water. Encourage them to refill bottles with tap water where possible. In their own country they might think tap water is toxic! Educate them.
Make sure you have the tickets you need to enter with your group
Wear the official group T-shirt or hoodie for easy identification
Charge your phone fully and bring a power bank
Review the risk assessment for the day’s route and activities
Remind students to bring a raincoat or umbrella in case of light rain
Take group photos at key locations and share them with the programme WhatsApp group

Downloads

▶️ Registers for this trip
▶️ Tickets for this trip

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. It has been a home to British monarchs for over 900 years, with 40 monarchs having resided there. Key facts include its construction to defend London, its extensive art collection, the 1992 fire, and its role as the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter.

The castle estate covers the equivalent of 269 tennis courts and contains over 1,000 rooms! It is the burial place of 11 monarchs, including Henry VIII and Queen Victoria. A major fire severely damaged parts of the castle, and the restoration took five years to complete. It has hosted significant royal weddings, including that of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018.

The Timetable for the Trip

09:30 Meet at Wimbledon Station; briefing by Activity Leaders and take train to Windsor & Eton Riverside

10:30 Arrive in Windsor and walk through town to Windsor Castle

11:00 Visit Windsor Castle and St. George's Chapel

13:00 Free time to explore Windsor and have lunch

15:00 Meet and walk over the river to Eton.

15:30 Info and photo stop outside Eton College

16:30 Train back to London

18:00 Arrive in Wimbledon

Scripts for Activity Leaders

1. St. George's Chapel - info

St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle has a rich history as a royal burial site and the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter. Construction on the current chapel began in 1475 under Edward IV, with significant additions like fan vaulting completed by Henry VIII. It has hosted numerous royal weddings and is the final resting place for many monarchs, including Henry VIII, Charles I, and Queen Elizabeth II.

2. Eton College- info

Eton College was founded in 1440 by King Henry VI as a school for 70 poor boys, called "King's Scholars," who received free education. The school has educated numerous prominent figures, including 18 British Prime Ministers and members of the royal family like Prince William and Prince Harry. Over time, it has evolved from its original purpose to become one of the most prestigious and expensive schools for boys aged 13 to 18

3. Queen Mary's Dolls' House - info

Queen Mary's Dolls' House at Windsor Castle is the largest and most famous dolls' house in the world, built between 1921 and 1924 as a gift to Queen Mary after World War I. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the 1:12 scale replica is renowned for its incredible realism, featuring working electricity, running water, and tiny books written by famous authors. The house was a collaborative effort involving over 1,500 artists, craftspeople, and manufacturers.

Page updated

Report abuse