Windsor Castle

The Story

William the Conqueror built the first structure at Windsor shortly after the Norman Conquest of 1066 — a wooden motte-and-bailey replaced in stone by Henry II in the 12th century. Every monarch since has left their mark, expanding, refining, and rebuilding. It survived the Civil War, a devastating fire in 1992, and the weight of every political crisis in British history. It remains a working royal residence today, making it not just the world's oldest occupied castle but possibly its most continuously inhabited building of any kind.

What Awaits You

Architecture: Expansive royal complex anchored by the Round Tower, with state apartments, private royal quarters, and St George's Chapel all within the walls
Cultural significance: The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world — home to British monarchs continuously for nearly 1,000 years across 40 reigns
Landscape / setting: Overlooks the Thames Valley and Windsor Great Park, 40 minutes from central London
Unique feature: St George's Chapel is the burial place of ten British monarchs, including King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth II