The Upper Ward at Windsor Castle is a captivating and historically significant part of the royal residence, featuring a quadrangle formed by the Round Tower, the Royal Apartments, St. George’s Hall, and the Chapel Royal. As a castle enthusiast, this area offers a glimpse into the grandeur and rich heritage of one of the world’s most iconic castles.
Main Features of the Upper Ward
The Upper Ward is a spacious quadrangle, with the Round Tower on the west side, the Royal Apartments, St. George’s Hall, and the Chapel Royal on the north side, and the apartments of the Prince of Wales, the Royal Family, and the Great Officers of State on the east and south sides. At the center of the quadrangle stands an equestrian statue of King Charles II in a Roman habit, placed on a marble pedestal.
The State Apartments in the Upper Ward include the Waterloo Chamber, St. George’s Hall, and the grand reception room, showcasing the opulence and grandeur of the royal residence. Additionally, the Upper Ward features a private formal rose garden, originally laid out by George IV in the 1820s and later updated by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
Redesign and Transformations
The exterior of the Norman Gatehouse in the Upper Ward was redesigned by Jeffry Wyatville in the 19th century, reflecting the Gothic Revival style that heavily influenced the architecture of this area. The use of Bagshot Heath stone, yellow Bath stone, and small bits of flint in the mortar for galletting further enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Upper Ward.
Historical Significance
The Upper Ward is not only a visually stunning part of Windsor Castle but also holds immense historical significance. It includes the private apartments of the monarch and private apartments for visitors, as well as the royal library, which contains a priceless collection of drawings by famous artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
Restoration and Fire
In 1992, a devastating fire destroyed or damaged over 100 rooms in the Upper Ward, including the iconic St. George’s Hall. However, a successful restoration was completed in 1997, ensuring the preservation of this architectural and historical gem.
Additional Information
The private formal rose garden in the Upper Ward was used for victory garden production during World War II and was tended by Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret. For a limited time in 2020, the garden was opened to the public for the first time in 40 years, offering a rare opportunity to experience this hidden gem.
Windsor Castle’s Upper Ward is a testament to the enduring legacy of the British monarchy and the architectural brilliance that has shaped this iconic royal residence over the centuries. As a castle enthusiast, exploring this captivating quadrangle is a must-do experience that will leave you in awe of the grandeur and history that permeates every corner of the Upper Ward.
References:
1. Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Windsor Castle: The Upper Ward. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/collection/publications/windsor-castle/windsor-castle-the-upper-ward
2. Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Plan of the Ground Floor of the Upper Ward in Windsor Castle, 1811. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/collection/701007/plan-of-the-ground-floor-of-the-upper-ward-in-windsor-castle-1811
3. Wikipedia. (n.d.). Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windsor_Castle
4. Thamesweb. (n.d.). A Guide to Windsor Castle in c.1811 – The Upper Ward and State Apartments. Retrieved from https://www.thamesweb.co.uk/windsor/windsorhistory/winguide03.html
5. Britannica. (n.d.). Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/topic/Windsor-Castle