The Windsor Castle Jubilee Garden is a 2-acre garden located just inside the castle entrance, extending from the main Henry VIII gate to St George’s Gate on Castle Hill. It was created in 2002 to mark the Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and is the first new public area to be created at Windsor Castle since the 1820s reign of George IV.
Design Inspiration and Key Features
The garden’s design draws on the picturesque tradition at Windsor, which has been the dominant influence since the time of George III. It features gentle serpentine forms that bring the romantic character of the home park closer to the castle and town.
Bandstand
The garden includes a new bandstand made from York stone, Purbeck stone, and Cumbrian slate, which is the only significant built feature.
Plantings
The garden is filled with woodland trees, flowering shrubs, and white rambling roses set against the old stone walls, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Water Feature
The garden includes a sculptural water feature called ‘Thales’, created by Barry Mason, which adds to the tranquil ambiance.
Historical Significance
Golden Jubilee
The garden was created to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee in 2002, marking 50 years of her reign.
First New Public Area
It is the first new public area to be created at Windsor Castle since the 1820s reign of George IV.
Visitor Information
Location
The garden is located just inside the castle entrance, extending from the main Henry VIII gate to St George’s Gate on Castle Hill.
Accessibility
The garden is open to visitors and can be seen all year round.
Exploring the Windsor Castle Jubilee Garden
As you step into the Windsor Castle Jubilee Garden, you are immediately transported to a world of tranquility and romance. The gentle curves of the paths and the lush, verdant plantings create a sense of timelessness, as if you have stepped back in time.
The centerpiece of the garden is the elegant bandstand, its York stone, Purbeck stone, and Cumbrian slate construction blending seamlessly with the historic castle walls. Surrounding the bandstand are towering trees and flowering shrubs, their blooms adding splashes of color to the serene landscape.
One of the garden’s most captivating features is the sculptural water feature, ‘Thales’, which adds a soothing, meditative element to the space. The gentle flow of water and the reflections of the castle walls create a calming atmosphere, inviting visitors to pause and take in the beauty of their surroundings.
As you wander through the garden, you can’t help but feel a sense of connection to the rich history of Windsor Castle. The romantic, picturesque design pays homage to the castle’s past, while the modern elements, such as the bandstand and water feature, add a contemporary touch.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone in search of a peaceful respite, the Windsor Castle Jubilee Garden is a must-visit destination. Its combination of stunning natural beauty and historical significance makes it a truly unique and enchanting experience.
References
- https://www.tomstuartsmith.co.uk/projects/windsor-castle
- https://www.windsor.gov.uk/ideas-and-inspiration/platinum-jubilee/windsor-jubilee-facts
- https://www.frommers.com/destinations/windsor-and-eton/attractions/jubilee-gardens
- https://www.rct.uk/collection/stories/royal-gardens/windsor-castle/the-jubilee-garden
- https://www.rct.uk/collection/stories/royal-gardens/windsor-castle-gardens