The Queen Elizabeth Room at Windsor Castle is a stunning and historically significant part of the State Apartments, offering visitors a glimpse into the private life of the British monarchy. As one of the most impressive rooms in the castle, it has been used for official events, receptions, and private gatherings by the Royal Family for centuries.
The Grand Reception Room
The Queen Elizabeth Room, also known as the Grand Reception Room, is a truly magnificent space within the State Apartments. Decorated with real gold and featuring grand chandeliers, this room was once the main ballroom of the castle. One of the most striking features is the large urn presented to Queen Victoria by Tsar Nicholas I in 1839, which stands as a testament to the castle’s rich history.
The Private Apartments
The Queen’s private apartments at Windsor Castle are located in the Upper Ward and include a suite of rooms such as bedrooms, drawing rooms, dressing rooms, and reception rooms. These areas are rarely seen by the public, but occasional glimpses are provided through official photos and documentaries, offering a unique insight into the personal life of the monarch.
The Oak Room
One of the more intimate spaces within the Queen’s private apartments is the Oak Room. This semi-octagonal room is known for its oak wood panelled walls and has been used by Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II as a private sitting room. The room features comfortable sofas, armchairs, and personal mementos, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Notable Features
The State Apartments at Windsor Castle are renowned for their grandeur and historical significance. The Crimson Drawing Room, for example, features a dominant shade of red with gold detailing and exquisite furnishings by Morel & Seddon. The Green Drawing Room, on the other hand, has been used for official portraits, including those of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
History and Preservation
The State Apartments at Windsor Castle have been used by the Royal Family for centuries, with significant renovations and additions made by various monarchs. The rooms have been carefully restored and maintained to preserve their historical and cultural value, ensuring that visitors can experience the opulence and grandeur of the castle’s past.
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Cost | Admission prices vary depending on the time of year and type of ticket. A standard adult ticket costs around £26.50. |
| Timings | Windsor Castle is open to the public all year round, with the State Apartments open when the Castle is open, except for official State events. |
| Directory | Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1NJ, UK. |
| Hours | The Castle is open from 9:30 am to 5:15 pm, with last entry at 4:15 pm. |
| Rates | Admission prices vary, but a standard adult ticket costs around £26.50. |
| Value | Windsor Castle is a significant historical and cultural site, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the British monarchy. |
References
- Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Top things to see and do at Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/top-things-to-see-and-do-at-windsor-castle
- Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Highlights of Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/highlights-of-windsor-castle
- House and Garden. (2022, September 11). Remembering a privileged glimpse into the Queen’s private sitting room. Retrieved from https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/article/inside-the-queens-living-room
- Scene Therapy. (2022, July 30). The Queen’s Private Apartment at Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://scenetherapy.com/the-queens-private-apartment-at-windsor-castle/
- Vogue. (2020, April 15). Take a Look Inside the Grandest Rooms of Queen Elizabeth’s Palaces. Retrieved from https://www.vogue.com/article/inside-queen-elizabeth-palaces-grandest-rooms