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Tips for your Investiture at Windsor Castle

Writer's picture: Jennifer FogertyJennifer Fogerty

A thrill of me living and working as a Hair and Makeup artist in Windsor, is that I get to be part of many special occasions. Ascot, Henley Regatta, and of course events at Windsor Castle. One of the most proud days in someone's life is being recognised for achievements by the Crown and being honoured by a OBE, MBE or Knighthood.


The Long walk in Windsor with view of castle
The Long Walk

When the Investiture ceremonies run, I am usually booked to do the hair and makeup for attendees and it really is such an honour - but also so interesting to meet such special people and have made such an impact.


I often get asked on the day where is good to eat and usually by then its too late to get a booking, so, I thought I'd compile a little list of places to stay/eat and drink for those coming to Windsor for an event at Windsor Castle. That means that you can book ahead!


What to do ?

If you find yourself in Windsor with a few hours to spare then I'd suggest just having a wander around. There is some good shopping, great coffee stops and it's a lovely place to absorb the atmosphere. The long walk is about 5 minutes walk from The Guildhall and a great palce for a picnic or a little exercise on a sunny day. Or cross over the river to Eton and explore the smaller more quaint high street with lots of independent businesses.


Where to Stay?

If you need to stay overnight, I'd strongly suggest booking somewhere in Central Windsor or Eton. Not only is it extremely convienient for the castle, but it's a beautiful historial town with a lovely feel and lots to do. If you're lucky, you may even witness the changing of the guard (10.50am/11.25am) every other day in summer) My biggest tip for booking somewhere to stay, is check the location before you book. Some Slough hotels have Windsor in their title but they are not in Windsor.


Hotels

Most convenient- Windsor Castle Hotel https://castlehotelwindsor.com or McDonald Hotel https://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/windsor

Most Affordable - Holiday Inn Express (a good walk) or Travelodge Windsor

Most Luxury - Fairmont Windsor Park -A taxi ride away


soldiers in windsor walk passed Castle hotel on a summers day
Windsor Castle Hotel is situated on the High Street opposite The Windsor Guildhall. Only a 2 minute walk to the Castle entrance.

Self Contained Homes- Alternatively Windsor is littered with Air BNBs or VRBO apartments, to suit every budget and party size. Windsor is also small enough that even the ones on the outskirts of town are only a short taxi ride to the castle and there are some homes situated in the cobbled streets next to Castle Hill.



Map of Central windsor

Food and Beverage

You are spoilt for choice in Windsor for food and drink. We have a lot of chain restaurants or you can even hop on the train into london. We also have Bray about 15 minutes drive away, which is famed for The Fat Duck, The Waterside Inn, Caldesi two of which have 3 Michelin stars.



Here are a few of my top picks that are in Windsor that I personally recommend.


In my guide I have favoured smaller indepedent places, as thats where I like to go. There are lots of chain places to go if All Bar One or Zizzi is more your thing, Windsor has a lot of them to choose from.

The Shambles wine bar
The Shambles wine bar

Where to Drink?


COCKTAILS

Cobbles A tiny and cosy cocktail room in the heart of the Cobbled streets. This place is like being in somebodys fancy living room with the most delicious drinks.

The Shambles Situated in the famed crooked house of Windsor this award winning, quirky and unique Cafe, bar and bottle shop is run by Hamish and his wife Pip. Everthing they serve is delicious and well curated. I absolutely love the vibe in here. The also have excellent wine and spirits. My personal fav is their Spicy Marg.

Incognito - For something a little more flamboyant, Incognito is a little more of an 'experience'. There are a few of them around the South East. Think drinks served in mechanical ferris wheels or miniture hot air balloons with dry ice. Opulant, dramatic and fun.


WINE

Eton Wine Bar An absolute hidden gem that is slightly off the beaten track, but worth the 10 minute walk. Lovely wine and a lovely place to sit and drink it!

The Shambles - See above

La Planchette- A french wine bar on the way from Windsor Riverside station up to the Castle. Try the cheese and charcutterie boards!


PUB

The Two Brewers One of the oldest pubs in Windsor, The Two Brewers is small and cosy, has a great fire in the Winter, an extensive old world wine list. The food is also very good, especially the roast if you happen to be staying in the area.

The Corner House If you are out late and are looking for somewhere with a bit of atomsphere to get a drink, The Corner House is always bustling.


Where to dine?

Lux but relaxed, Gastro, Michelin - Loch & Tyne, Old Windsor


Adam Handlings, Loch and Tyne
Adam Handlings, Loch and Tyne

I absolutley love Loch and Tyne. Its a gastro pub by Adam Handling, an 8 minute taxi ride away from central Windsor, but I assure you, it's worth it. This friendly pub is upmarket with beautiful, thoughtful decor, a cosy atmosphere and outstanding food and drinks. You won't be disappointed.








Fancy and consistent - The Ivy, Central Windsor

The Ivy obviously goes against my 'indi' recommendations, but... you can't deny its a nice place to get a nice lunch and a glass of bubbles to celebrate your Investiture. The service is great and the food consistent. Plus its opposite Windsor Castle!


Quiet, Quaint, Fine Dining- Gilbeys Eton

Gilbys is a classic and traditional fine dining restaurant just over the bridge in Eton. (They do also have rooms)


Cosy, Historical, Pub with delicious food - The Two Brewers

Sebastians
Sebastians

Italian & independent- Sebastians


Sebastians Italian is a bit of a Windsor institution. Its the local 'go to' because of the fresh, high quality food, excellent service and consistent standards. You won't get a better pizza in Windsor and if you have children with you, they're great for families



Hair and Makeup

If you want to take some of the stress out of the getting ready part of your day and you'd like to book me or one of my wonderful team to do your hair and makeup for you, then please get in touch via the contact form on my website. We will come to the place you are staying and help you get royally ready for your big moment. We specialise in 'beauty enhancing' make up that doesn't mask you. Makeup that makes you feel your best and whatever hair style that you feel will compliment your look. We can also help you with your hat!






I hope you found my recommendations and insights helpful, if you have a question and I haven't answered it within my blog post, please feel free to pop me a message on instagram @jenniferfogertymua


Jennifer x

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