All about Windsor in Berkshire UK

Welcome to Windsor in 2012!

2012-01-16T08:47:00.000Z

As London prepares to host the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games this year, Windsor will see some of the action itself as nearby Dorney lake hosts the Olympic rowing from 28th July to the 4th August. The facilities at Dorney are first class and there is even a new footbridge being built from Windsor racecourse to the rowing complex - this is how the organisers want you to get there as access from the other side of the Thames is somewhat limited.

Whilst there will be much excitement in Windsor, some people may be fearful of large crowds and overly inflated prices and whilst most establishments may charge a premium during the Olympic Rowing week, a lot of the action will be in London the rest of the time so don't worry unnecessarily over this period as it will be business as usual for most. Windsor is well prepared for extra visitors and many households are advertising their own homes as a place to stay to put up visitors. If you haven't found somewhere to stay yet for the Olympic period then keep an eye on our blog as we will be publishing details of a new Olympic accommodation website for Windsor 2012!

Indian Summer in Windsor

2011-09-30T14:25:00.002+01:00

Wow what a scorcher today is in Windsor - it's 27 degrees centigrade and it's a perfect day to visit Windsor Castle, go for a walk along the Thames towpath, take a boat ride or just sit in one of the many parks and enjoy the scenery - with all of these choices we just don't know how lucky we are sometimes... For somewhere nice to stay try a newly refurbished room at Alma House B&B or book an apartment if staying for a week or more. Check last minute offers on the "Check Availability" link at http://www.almahouse.co.uk/

More Lovely pics of Alma House on Flickr

2011-09-19T15:31:00.000+01:00

Some more great pictures of Alma House B&B can be seen on Flickr - here: Images of Alma House Windsor on Flickr

As we continue our program of refurbishment and improvement it is nice to have so many positive comments from guests! Thanks to all who commented for your kind notes!

Special Weekend Accommodation Offers

2011-09-13T14:49:00.000+01:00

As Autumn approaches... and we have upgraded some of our rooms (see above and below pics) we have uploaded a few special offers to tempt you with including our Weekend Family Treat - a reduced price stay for two consecutive nights during Friday to Sunday AND Free Wine and Chocolates thrown in for good measure. There are so many reasons to visit Windsor including great shopping (start Christmas shopping early...) and the fabulous restaurants like the new Crema that has just opened on Peascod Street where nothing is a problem - they bend over backwards to get you what you want and at a price that suits you - more about them in later posts.

The Family room has had a makeover including new carpets, newly painted walls, new lighting, new lamps, an ipod docking station (and handy charger for your iPhone) which also doubles as an alarm clock and last but not least a complete new bathroom with funky shower complete with complimentary toiletries....

Check availability and book online on our website or call us on 01753 862983
- ask for Rosie!

Apartments also available in Windsor

2011-01-27T09:14:00.001Z

If you plan to stay for a week or more then it's worth knowing that Alma House's sister company Accommodation Windsor Ltd manages various apartments in Windsor that are available for short term weekly stays. The apartments come fully equipped with everything you need for a relaxing stay in a home-from-home environment. This includes wireless broadband internet, freeview or Sky TV, fully fitted kitchens with cooking and laundry facilities and an optional weekly apartment cleaning and linen service.
http://www.accommodation-windsor.com/

Round Tower at Windsor Castle to open to the public

2011-01-24T17:13:00.000Z

For the first time in nearly four decades the Round Tower, a dominating feature of Windsor Castle, will open it's doors to the public. If you are brave enough you will be able to walk up 200 (yes 200) steps to the top of the tower to marvel at a splendid view of Windsor and London city skyline in the distance.

Opening for two months in August 2011 this tower has been recently underpinned due to subsidence and currently houses the royal archives.

Windsor Weekend Break: Special Offer 2010

2010-09-27T08:24:00.002+01:00

To celebrate the launch of our new website see our special offer below:

From 1st October to 19th December 2010 stay any two nights from Friday to Sunday at Alma House B&B and receive a whopping 20% discount off your stay PLUS a complimentary bottle of wine and a box of chocolates. To book please mention "Weekend Whopper" either on our online enquiry form or by telephone on +44 (0)1753 862983. Use this break to start your Christmas shopping, have a romantic meal, visit the Castle, catch a show at the Theatre Royal - all within a short walk of Alma House.

This offer cannot be combined with any other reduced price offer. Payment must be made in advance of your stay and our cancellation policy is 48 hours notice before midday on your arrival date to qualify for a refund.

Visiting Legoland Windsor - our guide

2010-07-05T14:32:00.001+01:00

If, like most families, you are heading for Legoland whilst on a trip to Windsor then you must see our Legoland information page which is packed with useful information to help you to maximise your experience on your trip.

You can buy discount Legoland Windsor tickets from Alma House B&B if staying for 2 days or more - we find that you really need two days to see everything and to be able to enjoy some of the shows.
Kids and adults will enjoy the fabulous mini-land which is made up of hundreds of thousands of lego bricks depicting famous landmarks from all over the world.
To book B&B accommodation call us on +44 (0)1753 862983

Windsor Dog Show

2010-06-28T14:26:00.001+01:00

Windsor's dog show starts this Thursday 1st July. See www. Windsordogshow.org.UK

Shopping in Windsor

2010-06-25T14:11:00.002+01:00

Windsor town centre is the ideal place to shop, with its wonderful array of stores mixing high street with designer, there is something for everyone ranging from the very young to the elderly.

The Windsor Royal Station with its market place set up is the ideal place to pick up gifts and souvenirs. Shopping in Windsor is sheer pleasure with Windsor Castle setting the perfect backdrop.

Check out http://www.windsorroyalshopping.co.uk/ for store lists, bars and restaurants.

After a full days shopping why not stay overnight and enjoy a second day of shops and sightseeing . Why not try Alma House Bed and Breakfast see www.almahouse.co.uk for details.

Triathlon

2010-06-03T09:56:00.001+01:00

The Nokia Windsor Triathlon is on Sunday 13th June 2010.
If you have never been to Windsor, the triathlon weekend will provide a terrific opportunity to see this historic town. Visit the 900 year old Castle and the world famous Eton College. With plenty of places to eat and shop, lots for everyone to see and do, including Legoland just around the corner, bring the family and enjoy a great weekend away. If you are a regular to the race, then you will know the format ~ great food, great T-shirt, great atmosphere and a great race!
For more info see their webpage:
http://www.humanrace.co.uk/more-info-on-nokia-windsor-triathlon-401.html

Video Tour of Windsor Apartment

2010-06-03T09:48:00.002+01:00

Managing over 45 properties in Windsor in Berkshire keeps us on our toes especially during these lovely hot summer months. (I say hot, it is today but who knows what it will be like tomorrow...) Anyway, our first attempt at creating a video tour of one of our rental apartments in Windsor is online below. This was a digital video taken using a sony handycam but putting it through YouTube has compressed it a little and lessened the quality but you get an idea of the layout of the property - a webpage is also online at this location:
http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/1-Elizabeth/index.htm

If you need short stay accommodation in Windsor please let us know and we will try to accommodate you.
See our main website at http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/ and our B&B at http://www.almahouse.co.uk/

Windsor Nightlife

2010-05-25T16:42:00.000+01:00

Wow! What a fabulous place to socialise in! You are spoiled for choice in Windsor Town Centre where you have everything from lively, late night watering holes to some of the more hidden local gems that are not always advertised and known mainly only by the locals

If you you're into live music, Windsor has a huge live music scene with some amazing talent floating around. Have a look at http://www.oldtickethall.co.uk/ for location and gig guide details.

If you prefer the local garden pub scene, there is a lovely family pub just 10 mins walk from the town centre called the Vansittart Arms - great food and a great atmosphere on a sunny evening in the garden http://www.vansittartarms.co.uk/

The Two Brewers is another local which is right by the gates to the Great Park, it's cute and cozy and sells amazing food (especially the Sunday Roast - but book ahead as this is a popular little haunt with the locals)

Oh and then there's The Alma, another quirky little place with a fab garden and terrace, unusually decked out with old Windsor memorabilia! It's a quiet pub during the afternoons and buzzy on Friday nights. See: http://www.thedinnersinthedog.com/alma/

Oh and I almost forgot .........where would one stay when visiting this sociable and historic town?
Why not book into Alma House which is just a stroll away from all of these fab venues and complete your experience

See http://www.almahouse.co.uk/ for B&B stays and http://www.accommodationwindsor.co.uk/ for stays of a week or more!

I hope to see you around this summer :-)

Frogmore Gardens

2010-05-24T16:55:00.000+01:00

The weather has been beautiful the past couple of weeks and what a lovely lunchtime treat we had on Thursday when we took our meal deals along to picnic at Frogmore House and gardens. The House is only open to the public for a couple of days in May and a couple of days at the end of August each year. It's well worth sticking a reminder on your calendar. Tucked away off the long walk, lying less than a mile from Windsor Castle you would never imagine that it was there until you visit.

The first building you come to as you meander through the gardens is the Royal Mausoleum built to house the mortal remains of Prince Albert and many years later his widow, Queen Victoria. The Mausoleum was unfortunately closed this year, but the interior was inspired by Prince Albert's favourite artist Raphael and is definitely worth a visit. The gardens are stunning in May with all the Rhodedendrons in magnificent full bloom. Our tickets this year were in aid of St Dunstan's which supports blind Servicemen and women and with lots of veterans in attendance it felt a very worthy cause.

As you pass the Mausoleum you come to a pretty bridge which you cross over to the main pathway towards the house. This is a very dramatic view as you turn a corner and see the house in all it's glory reflected in the lake. We didn't manage to go inside the house this time as had to get back to the office, but I would recommend the full tour. The house includes some recent royal history including letters between Royals, beautiful art and fabulous views out over the gardens and lake.

Parts of the gardens are relatively recent having been remodelled in the seventies by the Keeper of the Gardens. At the same time, numerous donation of trees and shrubs were made in commemoration of Her Majesty's Silver Jubilee and these are maturing beautifully. Having read through the booklet I see that we have still managed to miss parts of the garden so we shall just have to go along again next May and spend a bit longer there next time!

If you would like to combine your visit to Frogmore House with a stay in Windsor try almahouse.co.uk for family-owned town centre bed and breakfast rooms or accommodationwindsor.co.uk for executive, short-term apartment stays of one week minimum.

Riverside Apartments in Windsor

2010-05-24T16:45:00.001+01:00

We were recently blown away by an amazing property on the Thames at Windsor overlooking Windsor Castle. The landlady, a spritely woman in her seventies (she'll kill me if she reads this), had organised a major facelift of the property to bring it into the noughties. The apartment previously had a dark enclosed kitchen with no window and the landlady cleverly had the wall removed making it open plan. What with two sumptuous bedrooms and two luxury bathrooms this fabulous riverside apartment was snapped up the moment it was released for short letting.

Having a fabulous view of Windsor Castle means you can sit and watch the people and the ducks go by without a care in the world! This property is available to be rented on a short term all inclusive basis - contact Accommodation Windsor Limited on 01753 833747 - see the webpage here:

http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/4-WBC/index.htm

The Windsor Wheel

2008-10-15T16:56:00.000+01:00

For anyone that hasn't yet been on the new Windsor Wheel (a bit like the London Eye) here are our experiences! It was exciting arriving at the foot of the wheel in Alexandra Gardens - the wheel is lit up and there is a cafe for food and drinks before you go up (or to leave scared friends/relatives behind to watch you!)
The view is fabulous - you can see the whole of Windsor Castle, Eton Bridge, Eton College and the fabulous River Thames not to mention Alexandra Gardens and Windsor Royal Station in all it's glory.
The Windsor Wheel is a definite must-do for anyone visiting Windsor.
Check out more info on this website:
http://www.royalwindsorwheel.com/

Why stay in an hotel?

2008-08-30T23:23:00.002+01:00

Hotels are great for convenience but let's face it, if you have ever had to stay for a week or more then they are a complete bore. You can't wash your clothes, cook your own food, put the kids to bed easily or entertain your friends....that's why you need a short stay apartment.

Contact AccommodationWindsor.com for great apartments, all-inclusive rates and optional servicing if required.

All you have to do is ask....

http://www.accommodation-windsor.com/

Tel: 01753 833747

Weddings in Windsor

2008-04-30T12:56:00.000+01:00

With the summer approaching so too is the wedding season! Windsor is a fabulous location to hold your ceremony and reception. Along with the many churches in Windsor the Guildhall is a very popular and lavish venue, especially well known for it’s hosting of Prince Charles' marriage to Camilla. Other local venues licensed for marriages include Slough Registry office, The Castle Hotel, Oakley Court, Royal Windsor Racecourse, Sir Christopher Wren Hotel or Taplow House.

For the reception you can try anything from an intimate meal in a local restaurant, a decadent banquet & party for thousands of guests, or hire a wedding boat and have your reception afloat the Thames. All of these ideas can be catered for within the Windsor area.
Guest staying in Windsor can try http://www.almahouse.co.uk/ for very welcoming and comfortable bed & breakfast accommodation or http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/ for a short-term, serviced-apartment rental.

Windsor is also a fabulous place to shop for your bridal-wear. With shops like ‘Windsor & Eton Brides’, ‘Wedlock’ and ‘Windsor Bride’ you’ll be spoilt for choice! For all other wedding wear essentials try the many designers shops Windsor town centre has to offer.

Holiday Lets in Windsor

2008-04-29T15:18:00.000+01:00

We have just taken back a property that was available last year as a holiday let. The owner was trying to sell the property but with the credit crunch it seems that there are not enough investors with large chunks of cash available and none of the banks are lending money at the moment. So Bourne Avenue is back on our books and available to be booked by the week for a holiday stay in Windsor.

See our website at http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/ for short breaks (weekly stays) in Windsor. This two bedroom bungalow apartment is located down a private lane in a residential street. The walk from here to Windsor town centre takes about 12 - 15 minutes depending on how fast you walk. The property has lovely wood flooring, a modern fitted kitchen, a double bedroom and a single bedroom with extra pull-out mattress to sleep 2 children. Two comfy leather sofas, a TV and wireless internet connection plus garage parking - what more could you want? Call us to book 01753 833747

Natural Beauty

2008-04-02T14:32:00.000+01:00

As ashamed as I am to admit this, the first time I ventured into Savill Gardens was last weekend and to my surprise I stumbled across a gardener’s paradise! Although I can’t say that I particularly enjoy all things horticultural I had a rather splendid time! As well as enjoying a relaxed and tranquil day out I also managed to learn a thing or two. Savill Garden stretches over 35 acres of wondrous woodland, exotic features and relaxing scenery. The gardens were born in the 1930’s by Sir Eric Savill and since then the garden has grown and incorporated so much more along the journey. I would wholeheartedly encourage any one who can to take advantage of the natural feature on our doorstep. Try a short-term rental with Accommodation Windsor Ltd and take the time to enjoy all the beautiful features that Windsor and Berkshire have to offer. For more information on short-term accommodation please see, http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/

2008-04-02T10:40:00.000+01:00

Having fun and keeping fit is a great way to occupy the whole family during a short break in Windsor.

There are plenty of different activities to take part in throughout the Windsor and Maidenhead borough including, tennis, golf, badminton, horse riding and many more. Bray Lake offers a variety of water sports and supervised equipment hire, a fantastic way to spend a sunny day!
Another interesting alternative is a guided walk where some unique stories about our historical town are shared in a humorous and light-hearted stroll around the many places of interest (for more information the Windsor Tourist Information Centre should be contacted).

State Visit

2008-03-28T13:30:00.000Z

All eyes were on Windsor recently with the much talked about State Visit by French President, Sarkozy. Many flocked to see the President and his wife Madame Sarkozy as they arrived by horse drawn coach to attended the Royal Banquet at Windsor Castle.

Working for http://www.accommodationwindsor.co.uk/, so close to the action can be a very exciting and rewarding experience!

Short Breaks in Windsor

2008-02-26T14:32:00.000Z

With the sun shining and spring ever nearer, it has never been a better time to explore Royal Windsor on a short break. With Legoland opening on 15th March, the Castle in the heart of the town and the lovely Savill Gardens, there will always be plenty to do and see. Why not beat the summer rush and stay before the crowds descend upon our beloved & historical haven.

http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/ offer a wide variety of self-catering, serviced apartments ideally located in and around the town centre. Alternatively if you are staying for a weekend, why not try http://www.almahouse.co.uk/ where friendly staff are on hand to offer you very comfortable and welcoming stay.

Location, Location, Location!

2008-02-18T16:06:00.001Z

I am more than willing to admit, I had limited knowledge regarding property before working at Accommodation Windsor, I have now come to realise how important factors such as location are when embarking on a short-term rental, relocation or even just a short break away. In my opinion, you could not ask for a better location than Windsor. Think how lucky we are to live in the same post code as the queen and how good our transport links are to London and surrounding towns such as Slough, Maidenhead, Ascot and Reading . We even have the ability to take a day trip to Paris (where us girls can further tend to our retail needs!) The amount of leisure attractions that are available to residents of Windsor is also amazing. We have vast shopping facilities both in and around Windsor, access to many nationally recognised features such as Windsor Castle, the Great Park and Ascot Race Course to mention but a few. We also have easy access to various attractions in London such as the London eye and Oxford Street Topshop! My list could be endless but I don’t wish to bore you! For more information on what Windsor could offer you please see http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/ or http://www.royal-windsor.com/

Why I love Windsor

2008-02-11T17:27:00.000Z

I have only really become familiar with Windsor over the last 18 months, since working for Accommodation Windsor Ltd, and had only visited previously with family to see the Castle. Windsor has now become one of my favourite places to lunch with girlfriends (mostly during our many shopping trips!).

Windsor has great nightlife which my friends and I regularly take advantage of at the weekends! We love that we can shop, eat and party all in the same town. I can’t wait to discover everything else Windsor has to offer!

Shopping in Windsor

2008-02-07T11:25:00.000Z

I had never taken much of an interest in Windsor before I joined the workforce that is Accommodation Windsor (or as I like to call it, ‘The A Team.’) I now realise that Windsor has a lot more to offer than just the Queen and the Castle!

Windsor is home to a vast variety of shops ranging from classic high street retailers to wonderfully unique boutiques. I feel that now, although it may already be apparent, I should tell you that shopping is my favourite past time.

Since joining Accommodation Windsor, I have discovered all that SL4 has to offer, there is something to suit everyone and there is no shortage of personality either!
I have come across fabulously individual shops that can offer any solution to any wardrobe issues a girl might have, as well as finding a bargain or two for my Nan! I have gradually learnt to love Windsor and I can’t wait to find out what else it has to offer.

Windsor Castle

2008-02-04T18:19:00.000Z

On a bright, sunny day Windsor Castle is stunning as the attached photographs shows. This was taken with a standard digital camera from the balcony of one of our short term rental apartments across the bridge in Eton.

Windsor Castle is the largest inhabited fortification in the world and is said to be the Queen's favourite residence.

For views like this from your bedroom balcony, view the Accommodation Windsor website at http://www.accommodation-windsor.com

Winter in Windsor

2008-01-31T12:22:00.000Z

What an amazing weather week - yesterday was mild, sunny and bright in Windsor and today it is cold, dull and wintery. It is raining hard and the weathermen say it will be snowing by the weekend. Time to dust off the wellies and get out your scarves and hats.
The temporary ice skating rink has been removed from Alexandra Gardens and the gardeners were replacing the turf this morning as I drove past ready for spring which is around the corner (daffodils are sprouting up everywhere).

Even though it is cold, Windsor in Winter is still an amazing place - the fabulous architecture and the history contained in such a relatively small town always makes my mind wander as I daydream about what life must have been like in olden times. Windsor is full of friendly faces - everyone seems to know everyone - which is nice if you live in Windsor. I love the community feel of the town and how businesses seem to work together - always networking and recommending each other.

If you are reading this and have had a good experience or a bad expeience and want to tell the world please post your comments about Windsor.

Short term lets in Windsor

2008-01-28T21:39:00.001Z

Whether for business or pleasure, our short term let apartments in the centre of Windsor are a fabulous alternative to an hotel, aparthotel or self-catering unit. View our apartments at http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk/ - available to book for one week to a few months with all utilities and broadband internet included.

Where to stay in Windsor?

2008-01-28T20:05:00.000Z

Windsor is a fabulous town with bags of character, olde worlde charm, beautiful old buildings and a travel lodge.... Besides Windsor's (awful) travel lodge, there are many interesting places to stay if visiting Windsor for a daytrip, a week or staying for a few months.

Windsor bed and breakfasts - these are few since the travel lodge opened - many owners feeling they can't compete with the large corporation, however a few great B&B's still exist and are worth finding. On Alma Road just 5 minutes walk from the bustling town centre, on a leafy residential street, look for Alma House B&B at 56 Alma Road - see the website here: http://www.almahouse.co.uk - free wireless high-speed internet access and all modern ensuite bedrooms. The house is literally 5 minutes from shops, cafes, restaurants and central train station.

For Short term weekly lets try http://www.accommodation-windsor.co.uk - standard, executive and superior apartments available with all modern conveniences, fully furnished and serviced if required. Rent from one week to a few months.