The Windsor Castle Kitchen Garden has a rich history dating back to the early 12th century, serving as a vital source of herbs, vegetables, and fruits for the royal family and castle staff. This enchanting garden has evolved over the centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into the culinary and horticultural traditions of one of the world’s most iconic castles.
When Was the Windsor Castle Kitchen Garden Established?
The first references to a garden within the castle walls were made in the late 12th century, specifically to the ‘King’s herbary’ or herb garden, which was located within a courtyard inside the King’s apartments in the North range of the Upper Ward. Over time, the garden expanded to provide a wider variety of produce for the castle’s kitchens.
Purpose of the Windsor Castle Kitchen Garden
The primary purpose of the kitchen garden was to supply herbs, vegetables, and fruits for the royal family and castle staff. The garden evolved to become a vital source of fresh, locally-grown produce, ensuring the castle’s kitchens were well-stocked with high-quality ingredients.
Locations of the Windsor Castle Kitchen Gardens
The kitchen gardens were initially located within the castle walls, but over time, additional food production areas were established in the surrounding Home Park. This allowed the castle to expand its food-growing capabilities and meet the increasing demands of the royal household.
The East Terrace Garden
One of the most notable features of the Windsor Castle gardens is the East Terrace Garden, created by King George IV in the 1820s. This stunning garden features clipped domes of yew and beds of 3,500 rose bushes planted in a geometric pattern around a central fountain, offering a beautifully manicured retreat for the royal family and their guests.
Wartime Adaptations
During World War II, some of the flowerbeds in the Windsor Castle gardens were repurposed as allotments to grow vegetables, including plots assigned to Princess Elizabeth (the future Queen Elizabeth II) and Princess Margaret. This demonstrates the garden’s adaptability and the castle’s commitment to self-sufficiency, even in times of great upheaval.
Public Access
The Windsor Castle kitchen gardens have been open to the public intermittently over the centuries, with periods of private use by the royal family. Today, visitors can explore the East Terrace Garden and learn about the castle’s rich horticultural history.
Key Facts about the Windsor Castle Kitchen Garden
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment | First references to a ‘King’s herbary’ or herb garden within the castle walls in the late 12th century |
| Purpose | Provide herbs, vegetables, and fruits for the royal family and castle staff |
| Locations | Initially within the castle walls, later expanded to the surrounding Home Park |
| East Terrace Garden | Created by King George IV in the 1820s, featuring clipped yew domes and rose beds |
| Wartime Adaptations | Some flowerbeds repurposed as vegetable allotments during World War II |
| Public Access | Intermittent access over the centuries, with periods of private use by the royal family |
The Windsor Castle Kitchen Garden is a testament to the castle’s rich history and the royal family’s commitment to self-sufficiency and horticultural excellence. From its humble beginnings as a 12th-century herb garden to its current status as a beautifully maintained public space, this enchanting garden continues to captivate visitors and offer a glimpse into the culinary and gardening traditions of one of the world’s most iconic castles.
References:
- https://www.rct.uk/collection/stories/royal-gardens/windsor-castle-gardens
- https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/east-terrace-garden-at-windsor-castle
- https://www.janetredlertravelandtourism.co.uk/news/windsor-castles-east-terrace-garden-opens-public-first-time-40-years/