Royal Collection Trust - From state visit to great visit at Windsor Castle

 

Windsor Castle

What's new at Windsor Castle this autumn The Semi-State Rooms are now open! Pick up a multimedia guide on your visit and learn about the former private apartments of George IV, one of the most elaborate interior decoration schemes ever carried out in England.  Don't forget to stop by the Queen's Drawing Room. We're celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Georgian novelist Jane Austen, with a special display of her works. Discover more of our new displays below.  Save the date: Christmas is coming to the Castle From a towering 20ft-high Nordmann fir tree in St George's Hall to a miniature tree in Queen Mary's Dolls' House, festive celebrations return to the Castle from 27 November 2025 to 5 January 2026. BOOK TICKETS TO THE CASTLE

We're celebrating 250 years of Jane Austen See a rare copy of Jane Austen's Emma, gifted by the author to the Prince Regent (the future George IV), alongside copies of Pride and Prejudice, in the State Apartments on select dates in October and November.  Visiting with children? Enjoy Georgian-themed arts and crafts in the Pug Yard Learning Centre.  Next event: 25 Oct 2025 Included with your Castle ticket. PLAN YOUR VISIT

Exclusive Guided Tours of Windsor Castle In the company of an expert guide tour the magnificent State Apartments after the Castle has closed its doors to visitors for the day. You will discover the history of the Castle from its founding by William the Conqueror and see the Castle decorated for Christmas. Nov - Dec 2025 BOOK AN EXCLUSIVE TOUR

See our new China Corridor display  As you enter the magnificent Semi-State rooms, don't miss our new display in the China Corridor, which features beautiful examples of porcelain in the Royal Collection. Among the new additions is a service dedicated to George III's recovery from his first period of serious illness. BOOK YOUR VISIT A Renaissance treasure on display after 60 years A newly conserved painting by Raphael's protégé, Giulio Romano, is now on display for the first time in 60 years. The painting joins two others from a series in the King's Bedchamber, which you can see as part of your visit to the Castle. SEE THE PAINTING

The fire at the Castle Discover the dramatic story behind the 1992 fire at Windsor Castle, one of the most devastating events in its history. The fire destroyed 115 rooms, including nine State Rooms and led to an extensive five-year restoration programme. Thanks to surviving original designs in the Royal Library, the damaged rooms were restored to their Georgian splendour.  READ THE ARTICLE Did you see our timelapse of table preparations for the State Banquet?  Marvel at the meticulous care and dedication of Windsor Castle’s staff as they expertly arrange centuries-old silver, fragile glassware and exquisite decorations. WATCH THE FILM

Royal recipe: festive fruit cake It's time to start preparing your fruit cake! Try our very own royal recipe for an indulgent Christmas classic.  Did you know that Christmas cake began as plum porridge? Over the centuries richer ingredients, spices and marzipan were added, transforming it into the festive cake we know and love today.  READ OUR RECIPE From the shop: luxury Christmas gifts, food and decorations Celebrate the festive season in style with gifts inspired by royal tradition. From indulgent treats and fine wines to elegant gift wrap and luxurious hampers, find the perfect touches to delight loved ones.  Discover everything you need to make this Christmas truly memorable. SHOP THE CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

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