Royal Events in Windsor
Royal Events in Windsor
An Annual Guide to Britain's Most Historic Ceremonies,
Sporting Events and Seasonal Traditions
Few places in Britain celebrate tradition quite like Windsor.
Throughout the year, royal ceremonies, military pageantry, sporting occasions and centuries-old customs bring the town to life.
Many take place only once each year and are watched by visitors from around the world.
If you are planning a visit to Windsor, timing your stay to coincide with one of these events can make your experience even more memorable.
Below you'll find some of Windsor's most significant annual events, together with the best time to visit and what makes each one unique.
Guards Polo Tournaments
April to Sept
Access Windsor's most exclusive sporting occasions at Guards Polo Club. Our bespoke hospitality packages combine privileged viewing positions with elegant entertainment, with the unique option to arrive or depart by carriage through private areas of Windsor Great Park.
The Royal Windsor Horse Show
May
Immerse yourself in this quintessentially British event, where equestrian excellence meets royal tradition. Our hosted experience with your equestrian host and our concierge services provides access to preferred viewing areas and exclusive hospitality spaces, creating a seamless experience at the UK's largest outdoor horse show.
Royal Ascot Races
June
Join us for British racing's most celebrated week, where tradition meets luxury. Royal enclosure access to champagne receptions, complemented by our unique transport services arriving by carriage. Experience the finest in racing hospitality, expertly curated to create your perfect Royal Ascot day.
Frogmore Gardens
Temporaily Closed
Created in the 17th century and beloved by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, Frogmore Gardens are normally closed to the public.
They open only on rare charity days, with no set annual dates — a question we are often asked.
Order Of The Garter Ceremony
June
Founded in 1348, the Order of the Garter is Britain’s oldest order of chivalry.
Each June the Sovereign leads a procession of Knights and Ladies to St George’s Chapel in full regalia.
The Royal Windsor Flower Show June
A one-day horticultural celebration at York Club, Great Park. Explore artisan gardens, craft stalls, family activities, and expert talks under the theme “Patterns in Nature.” Expect royal guests and a classically British garden party atmosphere.
Swan Upping in Windsor
July
Dating back to the 12th century, this ancient ceremony sees the King’s Swan Marker and liverymen of the Vintners and Dyers row in scarlet uniforms to count and conserve Windsor’s swan population.
Eton College Fourth June Celebrations
An 18th-century school celebration featuring cricket, music, and processions in tailcoats, marking King George III’s birthday.
Windsor Championship Dog Show, July
First staged in 1951, the show has grown into one of the largest of its kind, with Windsor Castle as a spectacular backdrop.
The Windsor Arts Festival, Sept to October
A refined celebration of British culture, with classical music, poetry, lectures, and art hosted in historic venues including the castle and Eton College.
Iconic British Pantomime, Windsor Royal Pantomime, November to January
Windsor Theatre has been part of Windsor life since the late 18th century. The annual pantomime, is a DO NOT miss event for locals. Not just for children, adults adore it too, a firm favourite with the Windsor Carriages Team
Windsor Estate Winter Light Show
November to January
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During winter, Windsor Great Park Illuminated offers a magical after-dark trail of sparkling lights, immersive installations, and festive cheer, a true seasonal highlight.
Beyond Windsor
All just a short journey away, these iconic English social events can be seamlessly paired with time in Windsor. We would be delighted to recommend our trusted partners to plan everything in conjunction with your Windsor visit.
June–July – The Championships, Wimbledon
The oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, first played in 1877.
📍 Wimbledon, London – 50 minutes
June – Henley Royal Regatta
Founded in 1839, Henley remains the pinnacle of international rowing and a centrepiece of the English social season.
📍 Henley-on-Thames – 35 minutes
May–August – Glyndebourne Festival Opera
Since 1934, Glyndebourne has staged world-class opera with black-tie picnics in the gardens.
📍 Lewes, East Sussex – 90 minutes
June – Hampton Court Palace Festival
Open-air concerts held in the Tudor Base Court of Henry VIII’s palace.
📍 Hampton Court – 40 minutes
July – Cowes Week
Established in 1826, Cowes is the world’s oldest and largest sailing regatta, combining competition with glamour ashore.
📍 Isle of Wight – 2 hours (via ferry)
July–September – The BBC Proms
Britain’s longest-running classical music festival, founded in 1895. The “Last Night” is world-famous.
📍 Royal Albert Hall, London – 45 minutes
September – BMW PGA Championship, WentworthFounded in 1955, Wentworth’s championship is the flagship of the DP World Tour and one of golf’s most prestigious events.📍 Virginia Water, Surrey – 20 minutes
Planning Your Visit Around Windsor's Royal Events
Some ceremonies, such as the Order of the Garter procession, are free to watch but attract large crowds. Others, including Royal Ascot and the Royal Windsor Horse Show, require advance planning months ahead.
Our guests often combine these occasions with private visits to Windsor Castle, the Great Park, Eton College and the surrounding royal estate, allowing them to experience Windsor beyond the public celebrations.
Because many events affect road closures, security arrangements and visitor numbers, careful planning can make the difference between simply attending an event and enjoying a relaxed day in Windsor.
Experiencing Windsor Beyond the Crowds
Many of our international guests choose to visit during one of Windsor's great annual events, combining the public spectacle with a privately hosted day exploring the royal town and estate.
We help visitors make the most of their time in Windsor by carefully planning each itinerary around seasonal highlights, local knowledge and the rhythm of the town, creating memorable days that extend far beyond the headline event itself.
