Relocate & Renovate Design & Build, Schools, Eating out, Health clubs, Shopping & more.
Click here to read theinterview
I N H A B I T A T A R C H I T E C T S
A very warm welcome to Windsor and the surrounding areas from all of us at Hamptons.
You will be moving into one of the most highly regarded towns in England. Desirable homes, tree lined avenues, diverse shops and restaurants and an eclectic, vibrant population.
Hamptons has been matching people with property that’s right for them, locally, nationally and internationally, since 1869. We were pioneers, setting standards that few of our rivals could match and this hasn’t changed since.
Today, 150 years after we first set up home in Pall Mall, with 15 decades of finding property and looking after people under our belt, our clients now consider us to be their, ‘home experts’.
Yours sincerely,
Nicholas Canham - Head of Sales
Richard Wigmore - Area Director - Lettings
Interview: Mark Welsh
Windsor
Hamptons offers you a warm welcome to
Congratulations, if you are house hunting in Windsor you have already won. A home in this great town with all it offers, automatically makes you the envy of millions of Britains. Now in order to make your transition as smooth and hassle free as possible Hamptons have put together this great guide which will help you choose the best schools, learn a little about planning and building control, read tips on where to shop, eat and lot’s more, all packed into one little guide with clickable links. Perhaps most importantly we have researched some of the leading local professionals and experts who can help you add value and personalise your soon to be new home. A big WELCOME and enjoy.
HISTORY
Windsor began as a Saxon village. The name Windsor is believed to be a corruption of the Saxon words ‘windlass Oran’ meaning a bank with a windlass. After the Saxons founded the settlement it grew into a town because of its position by a river. In those days it was expensive to transport goods by land. It was cheaper to transport them by the river. The Thames was an important artery between London and the heart of England. It was inevitable that a town would grow up on the site of Windsor. William the Conqueror took Windsor as his own property. There was already a royal palace in the town. Windsor was near a forest where the king could go hunting and it was near a river which could be used for transport so the king liked it.The original settlement was at Old Windsor but William built a castle on an escarpment at Clewer.
There is no escaping the strong connection between the Royal Family and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.
The arrival of the railways made Windsor far more accessible from London and elsewhere, and so began the increase in tourism and day-tripping to the town and to the open areas of The Brocas where many a fine picnic would be enjoyed. From here, taking in the far reaching views of Windsor Castle across the Thames, tourists also had the opportunity for boating and swimming. As you approach Royal Windsor you can’t help but notice that Windsor Castle dominates the skyline. There is no escaping the strong connection between the Royal Family and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. On 17 July 1917, George V changed the royal family’s official name from SaxeCoburg and Gotha. In 2018 Windsor was the picture perfect location for two modern-day royal weddings: both Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and HRH Princess Eugenie and Mr Jack Brooksbank chose St George’s Chapel,...Windsor Guildhall is where Prince Charles married Camilla and you can see the ceremony room when you visit the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum, subject to room availability. Enjoy the wonderful shopping on offer in Windsor and Eton and discover many royal warrant holders. Princes William and Harry were educated at Eton College which is just over the River Thames from Windsor.
‘UK
property hotspot
Windsor is well connected and perfect for London commuters who want more space’
Those who know Windsor will not be surprised. It’s already one of the country’s best-preserved towns, with many streets designated as conservation areas. The centre has high-end arcades and stores plus a flourishing bar and restaurant scene. Windsor is also well-located for commuters, and good for buy-to-let investors.
Daily Mail
FAMOUS RESIDENTS
Windsor and the surrounding area has been a home to rockstars, celebrities, athletes, academics, artists and common or garden members of the upper-crust for generations. Here are a few notable names you may or may not know..
Edward 111 England
Sir Jimmy Page
Edward III of England (1312 - 1377) King of England.
Ranulph Fiennes (76) British adventurer.
Dhani Harrison (42) English singer-songwriter and guitarist.
Caroline Munro (71) English actress and singer.
Chesney Hawkes (49) English singer-songwriter and actor.
Sam Hutchinson (31) English footballer.
Sir Jimmy Page (76) British Rock Guitarist /composer/producer
Nell Gwyn (1650 – 1687) Mistress to King Charles II
Elizabeth Laura Waldegrave ( 1760 –1816) British noblewoman
Princess Margaret of Connaught ( 1882 – 1920) Crown Princess of Sweden
Mykola Andrej Pawluk (64) television video editor
Jenny Nimmo (76) British author of children’s books
Ben Chaplin (51) British Actor/director/writer
Anna Louise Friel (born 12 July 1976) is a British actress.
Natalie Jane Imbruglia is an Australian-British singer-songwriter, model and actress
Sir Nick Faldo Sir Nicholas Alexander Faldo, MBE is an English professional golfer
Alfred Young Nutt, MVO, ISO was an English architect and artist, David Thewlis David Wheeler, is an English actor, director, screenwriter, and author.
Ceri Owen on how tosort, style and stage.
Tell us a little about the background to sort style and stage, how did you get started? “We’ve been developing property for 20+ years. We learned early on to sell quickly and achieve a higher sale price. We needed to turn a house into a home and create a lifestyle that buyers wanted. We’ve always achieved a new sale price record, with some properties even going under offer on the same day they were listed for sale. This led us to create sort style and stage so we can share our expertise with our clients. We consider each and every space, both inside and out, and develop a tailored solution for the target market – this could be the homeowner, the buyer or the tenant. We offer renovation, interiors and staging services and we also have our own furniture collection. Our client base includes investors, developers and homeowners. For those who don’t know what’s involved in staging, can you explain what this is and why it works? 80% of us struggle to visualise how to use spaces within a property. In an empty property for example, the target market will have doubts about whether their furniture will fit and how to use the spaces. In a lived-in home, the opposite can be true – the target market will be overwhelmed and distracted by the current owner’s possessions. Professional staging overcomes these hurdles. A professional staged home will increase on-line marketing appeal, will attract more viewings, the time spent at the viewing increases, properties sell up to 3 times faster and the value can increase by up to 10%.
What type of staging services do you offer? We have two key types of staging services – virtual and physical staging. Virtual staging involves digitally editing spaces (inside and out), which is particularly useful for empty, dated, probate and partially renovated properties. In physical staging, we curate a turnkey solution of furniture and accessories and then install and stage these. We offer this type of service on a rental or purchase basis. To give our clients the highest chance of success, we also provide specialist property photography and 360 tours to showcase the property online. For those clients who want to invest to achieve a higher return, we provide a complete renovation service followed by staging.
You also offer a conventional ‘interior designer’ service, do you have an ‘in-house style’ you are known for or is every project unique? Quite simply, no we don’t have an in-house style - each client and project is unique. We pride ourselves on listening to our client’s needs and translate this into a final vision. The satisfaction we get from realising our client’s vision is tremendous, and we will search high and low to find a solution to meet the particular need. For some properties, staging alone is not sufficient. How can your renovation services help? Some of our clients have investment property. Other clients may have inherited property. These properties can often be dated or even neglected so will take longer to rent or sell. We offer a complete renovation service, both inside and out, to ensure the property meets the exacting standards of today’s buyers or tenants.
Finally, a word of encouragement for anyone hesitating to get in touch? We offer a range of bespoke services that will add value to your property. To help you get started, we offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation call to understand your requirements and come up with initial recommendations to help you move forward.
Local pubs
“Wine comes in at the mouth And love comes in at the eye; That's all we shall know for truth. Before we grow old and die. I lift the glass to my mouth, I look at you, and I sigh.”
(A Drinking Song, William Butler Yeats. 1939)
Shouldyou wish to wet your whistle in Windsor you could hardly have a wider choice. ‘Old school’ inns and taverns, cocktail bars, live music venues, gastropubs, they all abide aplenty in Windsor. Here are a few suggestions but the best way to find your ‘local’ is surely to take the air and simply explore.
The Duchess of Cambridge Pub
Sizable pub with exposed brick, flock wallpaper and stripped floors, for real ales and all-day menu.
3-4 Thames St, Windsor SL4 1PL
The Two Brewers
A work-Haus favourite Compact pub outside Windsor Castle and Great Park with local beers, food and outdoor seating.
34 Park St, Windsor SL4 1LB
The King & Castle
Family-friendly real ale specialist on 3 floors, each with a different feel, plus garden.
16-17 Thames St, Windsor SL4 1PL
The Boatman
10 Thames Side, Windsor SL4 1QN
The Horse and Groom
Brick walls, original fireplaces and old wood combine with modern touches in this classical pub.
4 Castle Hill, Windsor SL4 1PD
The Watermans Arms
Pub in former 16th-century workhouse, set back from the Thames, for real ales and British food
Brocas St, Eton, Berkshire SL4 6BW
The Alma
Real ales and comfort-food in traditional pub decorated with vintage collectables, plus big garden
61 Springfield Rd, Windsor SL4 3PP
The Corner Ale & Cider House Pub
Locally sourced international dishes served in a spacious, homely pub with sofas and a roof terrace.
22 Sheet St, Windsor SL4 1BG
The George Inn
77 High St, Eton, Windsor SL4 6AF
The Queen Victoria
Classic pub featuring wine boxes on the walls, signed celebrity pictures and a British menu.
The Prince Albert 2 Clewer Hill Rd, Windsor SL4 4BS
The Bexley Arms
50 Bexley St, Windsor SL4 5BX
The Duke of Connaught Guest ales, live music nights and an exotic Thai menu in a convivial locals’ watering hole 165 Arthur Rd, Windsor SL4 1RZ
The Windsor Trooper
The Trooper, 97 St. Leonards Rd, Windsor SL4 3BZ
The Three Tuns 8 Market St, Windsor SL4 1PB
Merchant logo
Duke of York
198 St. Leonards Rd, Windsor SL4 3DL
Interview with ‘RDF Carpets and Flooring’
So how did your company come into being?
Our family business is founded by two brothers, Vincent and Ricky French, who together have over 40 years of experience in the flooring trade. Fresh out of education, both found employment in the flooring industry, working their way up from warehouse assistants to working on the tools. Over the years, the brothers have gained valuable experience and training, acquiring all of the skills necessary to enable them to not only offer a professional floor fitting service, but to also run a successful business, which they continue to do.
What products do you offer and what is most popular?
We supply and install Carpet, Vinyl, Laminate flooring and LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile) Carpet still remains the popular choice in homes due to the comfort, warmth and cosiness it brings. We have so many various brands, colours, textures and designs in wool and manmade yarns. You will be sure to find a carpet that suits your lifestyle, budget and personal style.
However, we are getting more demand for LVT. This is mostly due to the desire for a low-
maintenance, family friendly versatile and durable floor.
Have there been any major changes in trends and customer demands over the years?
There have been a few trends over recent years, one long-running trend being the Grey phase! Grey was and is still the colour of choice when it comes to new flooring. However, recently, we have customers who want to break away from the crowd, and come to us wanting something different, which usually ends up either as a bold colour, or a “Greige”.
Also, when it comes to being ‘different’, a lot of people want to make a wow statement these days, especially on their stairs, so we get a lot of requests for stripes, zig-zags, patterns and stair runners for these.
What advice do you find yourself repeating most frequently when speaking to customers?
Be clear on what will suit your needs, lifestyle and budget when looking for your new floor. Also, allow time. We find that, especially when it involves new-builds, extensions or a new house-buy, the flooring is almost always the last thing to be done. This can also mean that it has been overlooked on time and budget, leaving the customer feeling rushed and potentially compromising on quality due to funds. We advise to do your best to allow a good budget, even if it means coming to see us weeks or months in advance of your ideas, to get a realistic view of what can be achieved, and we will happily work with you every step of the way.
What are your top of the range products in terms of underlay and carpet?
We stock many high-end ranges, including Westex, Penthouse, Adams, Hugh Mackay and Brintons amongst many others. A good highend underlay to pair with these could be one of Cloud-9, Tredaire or Duralay as an example. If some of these ranges are slightly out of reach in terms of budget, we hold many mid-range carpets that are so luxurious, they will look and feel as though you have pushed the boat out!
Artisan cafés
Enjoy an artisan coffee, local homemade cakes and even “a slice of Italy” right in the picturesque town of Windsor.
Craft Coffee House
We are a coffee shop with a conscience, we want to make sure that all our products are ethically sourced and where possible, locally sourced.
Thames Avenue 8 George V Place,
Windsor
SL4 1QP England 01753 851921
Monty Cafe
Monty’s Cafe is a modern independent café with a mission to serve excellent quality food in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. 15 St Leonards Road
Windsor
SL4 3BN
01753 867966
Also try:
Clairmont Coffee
Wonderful place with a Mediterranean feel, you will find something for everyone, an excellent coffee, filling toasties and panninis, delicious pasteries and refreshing alcoholic beverages.
5 High Street, Windsor SL4 1LD 01753 621082
Nimia
From an empty Art gallery to the bustling coffee shop you see today, the two ladies have created Eton’s only independent coffee shop and have no thoughts of slowing down.
58a High Street, Eton, Windsor SL4 6BD 01753 866355
Lilly’s Café
Breakfast.. Brunch.. Lunch.. Coffee.. Cake..they do it all brilliantly!
55 Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 1DE 01753 267885
Esquires Coffee
The place was founded with the goal of delivering amazing coffee, in cool environments, and with remarkable service. Going from one little shop in Delta, British Columbia, to a globally-recognised leader in the ethical coffee industry.
23 High Street, Windsor SL4 1LH 01753 858050
ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL WINDSOR CASTLE
Co-educational prep school delivers an exceptional education that promotes academic curiosity, develops character and nurtures creativity
St George’s is no ordinary school. Founded in 1348 to educate the choristers of St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, it’s steeped in heritage and tradition. Whilst it remains true to one of its core purposes as a choir school, it now has well over three hundred boys and girls aged 3-13 and a flourishing boarding and day community, who are all part of this exciting place.
The school moved to its present location just below the north wall of Windsor Castle in 1893. The original building, which has since undergone many changes and additions, was once the home of the Naval Knights of Windsor, and many of the rooms and school houses still reflect this heritage.
The school benefits from a unique connection to Windsor Castle and the children have access to the fantastic learning resources via a private staircase, with speech days and special services held in St George’s Chapel. The choristers sing regularly in daily services and in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen and other members of the Royal Family; in 2018, this included singing at both Royal Weddings.
Life at St George’s
St George’s specialises in happy children! Wherever you are in the school, you’ll see smiling faces and children fully engaged in the
thrill of learning and discovering new things. With outstanding facilities and a dynamic, exciting curriculum, based on the Pre-Senior Baccalaureate for our senior pupils, the school provides children with a genuine all-round education in its fullest sense as well as developing in them the character strengths that will help them flourish as individuals and as a society.
The school works closely with each family to prepare pupils for entry into their chosen senior school, with pupils moving on to an outstanding range of top UK boarding and day schools, including Benenden, Eton College, Hampton School, Harrow, Radley College, St George’s Ascot, Winchester and Wellington College.
The school is conveniently located opposite Windsor & Eton Riverside station with easy access to London and at the foot of Windsor Castle with expansive gardens, private playing fields and parkland to enjoy.
School facilities
The school is particularly proud of its purposebuilt Pre-Prep building that provides a separate, safe and inviting space for the youngest children. In 2010, in a major redevelopment, two state-ofthe art science laboratories, a preparation room and external teaching area were added and fully equipped to teach Biology, Chemistry and Physics effectively.
More recent additions and improvements have included the addition of a dedicated Food Technology, Design Technology and Art block, and upgrades to the ICT Lab and Library. A music recording studio in the Old Bank House building, complete with a mixing desk and a suite of 10 iMacs, allows pupils to explore the technical side of musical production and editing.
Sports and activities
Every pupil from Kindergarten to Year 8 benefits from weekly swimming lessons in the school’s own indoor swimming pool. The school’s extensive playing fields in Home Park Private, in the Castle grounds, are the envy of the circuit.
With Windsor Castle towering overhead, the playing fields are used all year round for sports lessons, fixtures and tournaments, as well as for regular nature walks. A brand new pavilion was completed in 2019 with changing facilities and a kitchen. Within the main school gardens there are grass and hard surface areas for playtime as well as a multi-purpose sports court.
A fully-equipped school sports hall houses physical education lessons, including indoor rowing, table-tennis, music and movement and gymnastics. In addition, there is an extensive programme of over 80 co-curricular activities to choose from each year.
Remote learning
Throughout the period of remote learning, the teaching staff at St George’s have been fully committed to ensuring children receive continued education and pastoral provision. St George’s has emerged with new skills, ways of working and a stronger community. With regular assemblies, music concerts, podcasts with guest speakers, information and support, St George’s pupils and their families have kept strong connections with the school.
To find out more about St. George’s School, Windsor, please contact our Registrar at registrar@stgwindsor.org or visit www.stgwindsor.org.
There must be no such thing as an ordinary education. A child’s memory of school should transport them to a world of imagination, enchantment, joy, ambition and pride. We would like to extend a warm welcome to you to visit us at St George’s School, Windsor Castle, and meet our wonderful boys and girls who make this such a special community, where warmth and kindness permeate across everything we do.
To learn more about St George’s School, please visit our website, contact our Registrar at registrar@stgwindsor.org or join us for one of our open events.
www.stgwindsor.org/admissions
Live music in Windsor
Browns Windsor
Restaurant serving classic homemade brasserie fayre alongside exciting seasonal creations, with live music on selected nights -see website
The Promenade, Barry Ave, Windsor SL4 1QX 01753 831976
The Old Court
Lots of amateur dramatic productions, live bands and a small bar. St Leonard’s Road, Windsor SL4 3BL
For the fans who want to know what is going on in Windsor and the surrounding area. Click the link for future events and live gig nights.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1583615381941439/
Old Ticket Hall
The Old Ticket Hall offers Windsor and all surrounding areas the best live music from Wednesday through to Sunday. Doors open at 8pm and as a late night venue, keep partying until 2am!
1 Farm Yard, Windsor SL4 1QL 01753 854554
Real Live Music
Venue offering weekly live acts -check website or facebook for details 40 Kings Rd, Windsor SL4 2AG 07791 198062
The Music & Words Club
A bi-monthly (2nd and 4th Thursday of the month) gathering of musicians / poets / singers / composers / electronic music makers / beat boxers and just about anybody who has some original material to showcase.
Ward Royal Parade, The Hope, Windsor SL4 3HR 07970 208734
Rednoodle
A variety of live acts -ring for dates /times etc
22 Sheet St, Windsor SL4 1BN 07807 603836
Windsor & Eton Brewery Comedy Nights
1 Vansittart Estate, Windsor SL4 1SE 01753 854075
The Henry VI
Local pub putting on an array of different live acts- also doing ales and food. 37 High St, Eton, Windsor SL4 6BD 01753 861459
Atik, Windsor
Modern, 3-room nightspot with booths and high-tech sound and light systems, for weekly club nights.
William St, Windsor SL4 1BB 01753 622373
The Duke of Connaught
Guest ales, live music nights and an exotic Thai menu in a convivial locals’ watering hole. 165 Arthur Rd, Windsor SL4 1RZ 01753 840748
High St Hotspots
Elegant and distinctly well-heeled, there is a wealth of good shopping opportunities, whether you’re after original handmade items, vintage gems, quality high-street goods or lush plants for your house or garden. Shopping is one of the top reasons to come to the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. Browse the shop-lined streets offering shoppers a great mixture of high-street names and independent retailers.
Source: Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead
Windsor Royal Station
Located opposite Windsor Castle in the Grade II listed Victorian railway station, Windsor Royal Station is Windsor’s must-visit shopping destination. Windsor Royal Station is the crown jewel of shopping destinations in the beautiful, historic town of Windsor.
Windsor
Castle Shops
Step into the Windsor Castle shops and experience a world of exclusive gifts and royal souvenirs, including commemorative chinaware, glittering jewellery, sumptuous homeware, delicious food and drink and charming gifts for children.
Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1NJ
Shopping at The Savill Garden
The Savill Garden Gift Shop is located in The Savill Building. You’ll find a wide range of beautiful gifts evocative of an idyllic country lifestyle alongside a range of plants and garden accessories from the Royal Gardens
Discover a rich and abundant range of local fresh produce, artisan delicacies and homemade crafts on your doorstep in the Royal Borough. Freshly-baked breads, locally-grown fruits and vegetables, charcuterie, cheeses, raw honey as well as artisan crafts and an educational petty farm. St Leonard’s Road (between the Old Court Arts Centre and Windsor College), Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 3BL
Windsor Farm Shop
Farm shop and cafe selling local produce, including meat from the royal estate and home-cooked pies. Datchet Rd, Old Windsor, Windsor SL4 2RQ 01753 623800 https://www.windsorfarmshop.co.uk
Eton High Street
A string of antiques shops, small galleries and boutiques line the winding road that runs from Eton Bridge to the college. Highlights include contemporary art at the Barker Gallery; the wonderfully dusty Eton Antique Bookshop; the Eton College gift shop (teddy bears and tea towels); and modern sculpture and jewellery at Turner and Thom. Antiques are priced for tourists and range widely in quality: buy with care.
Family days out
Windsor is a great destination for a family trip offering entertainment for kids of all ages. We’ve picked some of the most popular family-friendly things to do and sorted them into a handy list.
Windsor Castle
Open daily 10.am -5.15pm
Castle Hill, Windsor SL4 1PD England www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle
LegoLand
Legoland Windsor Resort, also known as Legoland Windsor, is a child-orientated theme park and resort in Windsor, Winkfield Rd, Windsor SL4 4A https://www.legoland.co.uk
Go Ape Black Park
Family fun 90 mins -1hr
Black Park Road, Wexham, Greater London, SL3 6DS www.goape.co.uk/locations
The Jelly Lounge
Monday 09:00 - 15:00
Tuesday to Saturday 09:00 - 18:00
Sunday 09:30 - 17:00
29 William Street, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1BB www.thejellylounge.co.uk
The Windsor Mystery Treasure Trail
Self-guided family walking tour
Crack clues and riddles
See Windsor in a whole new light Goswell Hill, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1RH www.treasuretrails.co.uk/things-to-do/berkshire/windsor
Windsor Leisure Centre
There is an 8-court sports hall, fitness studios, a cycling studio and a leisure pool with wave machine, giant slides, water features, interactive water play feature and a spa pool where parents can relax!
Child-friendly farm with animal petting and feeding plus activities from karting to crazy golf. www.oddsfarm.co.uk
Extreme Motion
This Adventure Playground in Windsor is a lot more than swings and roundabouts. For starters bounce higher than ever before bungee trampolining and enjoy mastering spins, tucks and dips.
Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 18:00 Alexandra Gardens, Barry Avenue, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 5HZ www.extrememotion.com/
Family Racedays at Ascot Racecourse
Experience the thrill of raceday with your kids at the historic Ascot Racecourse. Want to know what the best part is? Kids eat and go free!
11:00 to 6:00 on racedays
Ascot High Street, Ascot,Berkshire, SL5 7JX, www.ascot.co.uk
Sports and Leisure around Windsor
Sports & Leisure
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has everything you need to keep fit and healthy. Choose from a vast range of fantastic sports and leisure activities, whether you’re visiting the area for a short break or you’re one of our local residents.
Take your pick from leisure activities that take place in our beautiful parks and open spaces or one of our excellent indoor sports facilities and centres.
Be inspired to get Fit for Life by trying out a new sport. Running, Triathlons and Half Marathons
With this amount of beautiful and inspiring open space, you can see why the Royal Borough is a magnet for runners. Whether you are a beginner or a regular runner, you’ll find areas like Windsor Great Park can be perfectly suited to your pace and ability.
Test your endurance by entering one of our annual races such as the Windsor Triathlon (June), Windsor Half Marathon (September) or Maidenhead Half Marathon (September). You’ll find regular races at places like Dorney Lake too.
Golf
The area is home to some of the finest championship golf courses including Wentworth, Sunningdale and Stoke Park. Some of our hotels – such as Oakley Court and Stoke Park – have their own 9-hole courses or can arrange for guests to play at one of the many nearby clubs.
Leisure Centres Windsor Leisure Centre and the brand new state-of-the-art Braywick Leisure Centre (opening September 2020) are our flagship sports centres with their own swimming pools, with other leisure centres dotted throughout the Royal Borough.
Rowing
During London 2012 all eyes were on the Olympic rowing venue of Eton College-owned Dorney Lake. Rowing is certainly a popular sport in the Royal Borough with rowing clubs in Maidenhead and Eton (across the river from Windsor) where you can have a go at this physically demanding team sport on the beautiful River Thames.
Riding and Polo
If you enjoy horse riding or would like to try it for the first time, our local riding schools have all the facilities you need for lessons and offer hacks through some of the most spectacular countryside including the beautiful and extensive Windsor Great Park. Search the British Horse Society website to find a local place to ride. If you have your own horse and wish to ride through the Great Park you must first apply for an annual permit from the Crown Estate Office, telephone 01753 860222. Some hotels can organise horse riding for you. Coworth Park, set in 240 acres near Ascot, even has its own equestrian centre open for hotel and non-hotel guests whatever your level or ambition in the saddle. if you feel like having a go at polo, the ‘sport of kings’, lessons are offered at a number of local clubs and no experience is needed. Guards Polo Academy at Coworth Park Cool Hooves Polo at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club, Ascot Park Polo Club and Academy.
Swimming and Open Water Swimming
Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise and you can choose from lane swimming at one of the leisure centres or challenge yourself with open water swimming in one of the local lakes, such as Bray Lake or Liquid Leisure.
Join a Local Sports Club Get fit and be social at the same time by joining a sports club in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead – we have everything from angling and archery to volleyball and walking with a whole host of interesting clubs in between!
Water Sports
As well as rowing and kayaking on the River Thames, how about exploring water sports such as Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), wakeboarding, windsurfing and sailing on local facilities Bray Lake and Liquid Leisure?
Cycling and Mountain Biking
The National Cycle Network offers safe and attractive routes through parts of Maidenhead and Windsor.Discover traffic-free paths and quiet, on-road cycling and walking routes including the Thames Path, with bike hire available from Extreme Motion in Windsor’s Alexandra Gardens. With the exception of the Long Walk, there are over 17 miles of quiet roads and paths through Windsor Great Park making it perfect for accomplished cyclists and great for little ones learning to ride.Venture out to the lively paths of Swinley Forest in Bracknell and you’ll discover a range of rugged routes suited to more adventurous mountain bikers!
Source: Windsor.gov.uk
Interview with Kido School
Tell us a little of the history of your nursery Kido is by parents, for parents - we are owned and operated by a group of parents from all over the world. We were set up in response to our founders’ struggles as young parents in different countries searching for high quality early years education. Since our first nursery school opened in 2014 we have been obsessed with two things: improving learning outcomes for children, and our service to parents.
What would you say is special about Kido
There are many special elements to Kido that we are very proud of. Our international early years curriculum makes Kido settings truly unique. Children benefit from the best of curriculums drawn together from all over the world. Including extra curricular elements such as Spanish and French, dedicated STEM classes, Kido Explorer Days - a project based learning experience, along with an international Zoom club to share cultural experiences and celebrations across three continents.
Are there any facilities you are particularly proud of?
We take a great deal of time and effort to plan and create classroom environments that support children’s learning. We believe children learn best in natural environments that are calming
and allow children to focus on the activities and experiences available to them. We ensure our indoor and outdoor play areas give children a space where they can run, jump, climb and fulfill all of their developing physical needs. Our nurseries are equipped with natural wooden toys and furniture which echoes our commitment to sustainability and reflects on our Reggio Emilia and Montessori inspired curriculum. We work with various suppliers globally to ensure the children have toys and equipment to aid their natural exploration of the wonderful topics on offer in each classroom. This means you’ll find STEM laboratories in our settings, complete with lab coats and safety glasses, we have home corners that reflect different cultures through the clothing, books and food on offer, and you’ll always find a wonderfully presented, clean and welcoming nursery at any Kido threshold you cross.
Kido’s school readiness program is run each year for our cohort of school leavers. We cover all of the required academic topics, Maths, Phonics, Reading and Literacy while also incorporating a huge focus on our children’s personal, social and emotional wellbeing and development. We want to ensure everyone leaves Kido with the utmost confidence and enthusiasm to embark on school. We are very proud that all children across Kido are accepted into their families school of choice.
What makes you different to any other setting
We believe that our Kido teachers are what make our settings different from others. We are very passionate about our commitment to professional development for all of our teachers.
We have our own, inhouse dedicated training team that works closely with each nursery to ensure high quality experiences for all. Teachers in early years have a huge impact on children’s first learning experiences and we take our responsibility of supporting our educators to be the very best that they can be very seriously. We set out to provide each child with a lifelong love of learning and a wonderful experience in their first educational setting, this wouldn’t be possible without our fantastic teams of teachers.
Book a personal tour today!
Kido International Nurseries bring together the world’s best early years practices to deliver the finest preschool experience for children and parents alike.
◆ Outstanding education for children from 3 month to 5 years.
◆ Extra curricular languages and sports classes.
◆ Dedicated STEM classes.
◆ Innovative curriculum.
◆ Experienced and fully qualified teachers.
Our Locations
Crouch End | Golders Green Road | Golders Green Road (West Heath Drive) | Kido Camden | Bethnal Green | Clerkenwell | Waterloo (St. Patrick’s) | Chiswick | Elephant Park | Chelsea | Greenwich | Fulham | Battersea | Windsor | Imperial Wharf | Wandsworth | Streatham | Tooting
◆ Open 51 weeks a year 8am - 6pm. Book a
www.kidoschools.com
Schools & nurseries
Where our children spend most of their week and how they are being educated is a decision which should take some serious consideration. We have put together this list of suggestions to make your life a little bit easier. Many local schools and nurseries offer free tours so please go and visit your choice options before making that final important decision.
The Windsor Boys’ School
1 Maidenhead Road
Windsor Berkshire SL4 5EH
Ages 13-18 Mixed 01753 716060 www.twbs.co.uk/
Trevelyan Middle school
Wood Close, Windsor, SL4 3LL
Ages 9-13 mixed 01753 864371
www.trevelyan.org.uk/
St George’s School Windsor Castle
St George’s School, Windsor Castle is a co-educational independent preparatory school in Windsor, Datchet Rd, Windsor SL4 1QF 01753 865553 https://www.stgwindsor.org
Upton House School
‘Upton House School is a provider of excellent academic standards within a warm and nurturing environment. 2-11
Uptons House School, 115 St. Leonards Rd, Windsor SL4 3DF : 01753 862610
‘It is uncompromising in encouraging each individual to aspire to academic excellence, to learn that embracing opportunity is its own achievement and to understand that a diverse, harmonious and happy community is the foundation of individual success.’
01628 640150 www.holyportcollege.org.uk/
Hilltop First School
Mixed ages 3-9
Clewer Hill Road, Windsor, SL4 4DW
Hilltop First school, built in 1961, is a community First School with a Foundation Stage catering for children from Nursery to Year 4. We have an admission number of 45 children per year group. 01753 863502 www.hilltopfirst.co.uk
Windsor Girls’ School
Girls only 13-18
Imperial Road, Windsor, SL4 3RT
Every student is offered a broad and balanced curriculum alongside a wide variety of extra-curricular activities, visits and overseas trips. The stimulating, caring and supportive environment equips each student with the key skills needed for the next stage of their academic journey. 01753 795155 www.windsorgirls.net
The Queen Anne Royal Free First School Chaucer Cl, Windsor SL4 3EH 01753 830885 http://www.queenannefirstschool.org.uk
The Riverside Day Nursery Within
Windsor Leisure Centre
Windsor Leisure Centre, Stovell Rd, Clewer, Windsor SL4 5JB https://www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk
Cabin Fever! The British are going wild about garden rooms
Please tell us how you got started building Garden Rooms?
This booming industry is of course an evolution of the old-fashioned garden shed where for generations the nation have pottered the hours away in blissful but rather cramped conditions but it’s quite incredible what we can now within your garden space. Our founder Steve took the plunge to set up a company after 30 years in the building industry locally. We noticed a need for a high quantity garden room company within the local and surrounding areas and to be honest he has never been happier or busier. It’s so rewarding, and we have now done so many we really are experts in this field.
The demand for garden rooms is phenomenal, how do you cope?
We are certainly in high demand at the moment but don’t let that put you off getting in touch, we cope with this with good scheduling and our highly professional workforce. We never lose clients due to high demand my advice would be to get in touch as soon as you know you are serious about having a garden room and let us come out and talk through your needs. There is no obligation and you might be pleasantly surprised by our flexibility.
What are some of the uses your clients have for the rooms?
Our client use our garden rooms for a huge variety of uses from Offices, gyms, massage/ yoga studios, chill out rooms and teenager games rooms to name a few, our garden rooms have endless usage and of course, the use that the room is initially built for is not necessarily the same as it will be in a couple of years. Just like any other room in the house things evolve and needs change so a gym in 2021 may be an Air B&B in 2023.
Is there a project that you look back on with the most pride?
There is not really one garden room we look at with the most pride as we have pride in all our room be it an 8m x3.5m gym/ spa room to a 4m x3m office space.
What do you love most about running your business?
Without question, it’s the look of delight of our clients when we hand over their new garden room. It’s a very exciting moment for our clients and for us, we never get bored from receiving compliments for our work or of making people happy.
Independent boutiques
Our shopping streets are dotted with beautifully curated independent boutiques. Here are some of our favourites.
A Vida
Upmarket fashions including furs and outfits for the mother of the bride in stylish boutique.
49 Peascod St, Windsor SL4 1DE 01753 864844
Vinegar Hill
20 St. Leonards Rd, Windsor SL4 3BU
So many interesting gifts in this shop suitable for every age from newborns to older folk. Well worth the walk from Windsor Castle
New & Lingwood
Excellent range of *everything* -- they have a great range of gentleman attire
118 High St, Eton, Windsor SL4 6AN
Roz Clarke
Customer service has always been at the forefront of the ‘Roz Clarke’ shopping experience Customers trust them and have come to expect the highest level of knowledge.
19 St. Leonards Rd, Windsor SL4 3BP 01753 858517
Nea
Beautiful designer clothing at amazing prices! Highly recommended store! Unique, edgy and elegant ladies clothing from casual to formal business attire and also evening cocktail dresses.
47 Peascod St, Windsor SL4 1DE 01753 622470
Penriver Design Ltd
Up to the minute womens’ fashion and jewellery store.
13 William St, Windsor SL4 1BB 01753 833335
The Changing Room
57a St. Leonards Rd, Windsor SL4 3BX 01753 860505
Interview with Sandra Orlando Payne from Inhabitat Architects
Tell us a little about your background and how you formed InHabitat Architects?
To answer this question, it is probably best that I share with you a defining moment that brought me to where I am today, working with clients on exactly what to do to achieve their ‘dream home’. That defining moment in my life happened in late 2006. A few months before, I quit my job in one of the top five London architecture practices and started working for a small well established local architecture studio specialising in luxury houses in the home counties. To my surprise, I took joy in working involvement with all of these projects, large and small. I found out then that domestic projects could be exciting designs and that working with the end-users, the families was an absolute pleasure. There were no more meetings with CEOs and their large boards instead, I found myself sipping cappuccinos (or a glass of Malbec!) in warm families sitting rooms talking to people who looked and felt like me!
What type of projects creates the biggest buzz within your office?
We are in the business of ‘homemaking’. We help clients who want to build beautiful houses. The projects can be complicated, to begin with and the first task is often bringing in the bird’s eye perspective. Before starting any design, we set out the right strategy to set out the project path that suits our client’s particular priorities. We get very excited when a project flows naturally from one stage to another, from concept design, planning, detail drawings and construction. This is an indication that our clients are really enjoying the process and excitement sets in.
Which types of project would you say are most popular at the moment?
Definitely, ‘eco-lux’ and ‘integrated living’ are the buzz words in the postCovid era. We all want to spend our money in a more environmentally friendly way. We also want to feel much more comfortable in our homes. There is no reason we cannot achieve both by embracing the latest technologies and working with nature’s ancient laws.
What encouragement would you give to a potential client who hasn’t appointed an architect previously?
To find an architecture practice that suits you, you must follow your instinct as much as understand the fees’ value. It is a gut and head combined decision. An architect who fully understands your priorities will save you from spirally construction cost and sleepless nights. Ask lots of questions about the process and the different stages it involves. If you are not sure you want to get started, ask how to sample their work at low cost. It is likely to be a small service but enough to give you an idea of their working practices. This way, you can test if the practice would offer the right solution for you. In our case, we offer a low cost pre-design service called ‘Needs and Options Review’. Many clients have found this service an effective way to finalise their brief and get to know me and the team at the same time.
Is there a project you look back on with the most pride?
A couple of projects in our practice have added that ‘je ne sais quoi’, and our clients have enjoyed the process as much as the end product. Basically, we managed to align their expectations fully with their dream home design. These were also vibrant statement pieces of design, sitting beautifully within the landscape/ cityscape as if they have always been there. Most people are not aware that an architect’s design work is not done for them, but done with them! When we all get this right, then real magic happens.
How do you see your profession’s future in terms of the evolution of design, build and renovation?
The profession is evolving from the old fashion ‘building focus’ approach to a ‘people focus’ and ‘environment focus’ way of thinking architecture. We are not alone in this gradual change as we all become more discerning consumers, good at distinguishing the good from the bad and sifting out the gems from the information overload. I am excited about the future and how our built environment will change to serve people and nature alike in years to come.
Leading a hectic life? Need somewhere to tone your body, recharge your muscles or simply stretch? We have put together the best locations for you to do just that. Whether you fancy going for a swim or need regular fitness classes, we know that our recommended providers will do their best to keep you in shape.
Snap Fitness Windsor
Victoria St, Windsor SL4 1EG 01753 851009
www.snapfitness.com/uk/gyms/windsor
Five Star Gym
54 Vale Rd, Windsor SL4 5LA 01753 868646
www.fivestarwindsor.co.uk/ Wrens Club
52 Thames St, Windsor SL4 1PX 01753 864186 www.wrensclub.com/ Gym in The Park
8 Hawtrey Rd, Windsor SL4 3AU 07980 311438
www.gyminthepark.co.uk/ Rev5
Park House, 2-4 Sheet St, Windsor SL4 1BG 07747 634047 www.rev5.co.uk/ Power For Fitness
Windsor & Maidenhead car boot site www.facebook.com/groups/398557220186119
The Windsor Mums www.facebook.com/thewindsormums
Twitter
www.twitter.com/RBWM
www.twitter.com/CityWindsorON
Royal Windsor Horse Show & Virtual Windsor Series
www.twitter.com/windsorhorse
Help and support from your localCouncil
You should inform your Local Authority of where you are moving from and where you are moving to around a month before you move. You can do this here.. https://system8.rbwm.gov.uk/publicaccesslive/selfservice/services/ changeofaddress/coastart.htm
You’ll need to include the forwarding addresses for every adult in the property that pays council tax.
Search for information and services from your council. Information for residents about Windsor town Council including council tax, bins and recycling, schools, leisure, streets and parking, this and lot’s more at the below link.
www.rbwm.gov.uk
Planning and Building Control
Unsure which services you need?
If you are thinking of making changes to your property, you may need to apply for planning permission and / or Building Regulations approval. If you’re not sure which applications to make, please use the guidance below to help you to decide what you need to do.
Please note that many developments will require both.
What is planning?
Planning is the process of deciding whether a proposed development should go ahead or not. It uses national and local policies to consider the development in its context and may look at the impact of the work on neighbours and the wider community, existing architecture, the land, the layout, and existing or proposed infrastructure (such as drains, transport and schools).
You will probably need planning permission if your proposed development will do any of the following:
• create a new building, or change the use or appearance of an existing building
• affect the sunlight, privacy or outlook for neighbouring properties
• affect the nearby area with noise disturbance, smell or fumes
• work on or around listed buildings or any conservation areas
• affect traffic volumes, road safety or access
• change the density of development in an area
• use significantly different materials or finishes from nearby properties
• have an effect on existing trees
https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/home/planning
What is building control?
Building control applies national statutory regulations to ensure the structural quality of any building work, in areas such as safety, public health, accessibility, and the materials used. Most substantial building projects (such as an extension, knocking down walls or converting a garage or loft) will need Building Regulations approval.
