The Windsor Castle Living Room, also known as the Oak Room, is a private sitting room within the Queen’s apartments at Windsor Castle. This cozy and elegant space offers a rare glimpse into the personal life of the British monarch, showcasing the Queen’s impeccable taste and her love for horses.
History and Features of the Windsor Castle Living Room
The Windsor Castle Living Room is part of the Queen’s private apartments, which are not typically open to the public. This room reflects the Queen’s personal style and preferences, providing a comfortable and intimate setting for her to relax and entertain guests.
Decor and Furnishings
The room features a stunning white paneled interior, complemented by huge windows that flood the space with natural light. The vast expanse of red carpet and the gold curtains in swags add a touch of grandeur, while the furniture, including a grey and white chintz sofa, a japanned cabinet, and an ornate gilt mirror, create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Personal Touches
The room is adorned with personal touches that reflect the Queen’s interests, such as a large gold statue of a horse on a plinth by the windows and horse statuettes atop the cabinet at the back of the room, showcasing her love for equestrian pursuits.
Comfortable Seating Arrangements
The room is designed with multiple seating areas, including armchairs, occasional chairs, sofas, and even another desk at the back, allowing for different configurations of occupants. This flexibility ensures that the Queen and her guests can enjoy the space in a variety of ways, whether for formal meetings or casual gatherings.
Usage of the Windsor Castle Living Room
The Windsor Castle Living Room has served as a versatile space for various royal engagements and activities.
Royal Engagements
The room has been used for important royal engagements, such as an audience with Switzerland’s President Ignazio Cassis and his wife Paola in April. These private meetings allow the Queen to conduct business and host dignitaries in a comfortable and familiar setting.
Video Calls during the Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Windsor Castle Living Room was also used for video calls, providing a rare glimpse into the Queen’s private space and her ability to adapt to the changing circumstances.
Notable Residents of the Windsor Castle Living Room
Angela Kelly: The Queen’s Personal Advisor and Curator
One of the most notable residents of the Windsor Castle Living Room is Angela Kelly, the Queen’s Personal Advisor and Curator. Kelly has been invited to move into a suite next to the Queen’s in her private apartments permanently, underscoring the trust and close relationship she shares with the monarch.
Visiting Windsor Castle
While the Windsor Castle Living Room is not open to the public, visitors to Windsor Castle can still explore the stunning state apartments and witness the Changing the Guard ceremony.
State Apartments
The State Apartments, including the Grand Reception Room, are open to visitors when the Castle is open, with some exceptions for official State events. It’s important to check the closures in advance to ensure the State Apartments are accessible during your visit.
Changing the Guard
The Changing the Guard ceremony can be watched by Castle visitors on Thursdays and Saturdays, providing a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the British monarchy.
Conclusion
The Windsor Castle Living Room, or the Oak Room, is a private sanctuary that offers a unique insight into the Queen’s personal life and preferences. This cozy and elegant space, with its stunning decor, comfortable seating arrangements, and personal touches, serves as a testament to the Queen’s impeccable taste and her ability to create a warm and inviting environment within the grandeur of Windsor Castle.
References
- https://www.houseandgarden.co.uk/article/inside-the-queens-living-room
- https://www.loveproperty.com/gallerylist/74837/inside-windsor-castle-the-history-interiors-and-secrets-of-the-oldest-royal-home
- https://www.hellomagazine.com/homes/20220518140541/the-queen-private-sitting-room-windsor-castle/
- https://www.royal.uk/crimson-drawing-room-windsor-castle
- https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/highlights-of-windsor-castle