The Windsor Castle Private Apartments, located in the Upper Ward, are a closely guarded area of the castle that is rarely seen by the public. These private apartments offer a glimpse into the personal living spaces of the British Royal Family, showcasing the grandeur and history of Windsor Castle.
Layout and Features of the Private Apartments
The private apartments include a suite of rooms running along the south-end of the complex, featuring a variety of spaces designed for the comfort and convenience of the royal residents. Some of the key rooms and features include:
Bedrooms, Drawing Rooms, and Dressing Rooms
The private apartments boast several bedrooms, multiple drawing rooms, and dedicated dressing rooms, providing ample space for the royal family’s personal and private use.
The Queen’s Sitting Room: The Oak Room
One of the most notable rooms in the private apartments is the semi-octagonal Oak Room, which has been used by Queen Elizabeth II as a comfortable sitting room. The room features oak wood paneled walls with a neo-gothic arched design, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Other Rooms
The private apartments also include a range of other rooms, such as ante-rooms, dining rooms, and a writing room. The informal dining room, used by Queen Victoria during her reign, is another example of the diverse spaces within the private apartments.
Accessibility and Public Access
The private apartments are not open to the public, except for rare occasions when official pictures are released during visits by heads of state. The State Apartments, which are used for ceremonial purposes, are open to the public when the castle is open, with some exceptions for official state events.
Historical Context
The private apartments were built in the 19th century as part of the castle’s newer sections, while the historic rooms in the State Apartments were built for Charles II and his Queen, Catherine of Braganza.
Floor Plan
A plan of the ground floor of the Upper Ward, including the private apartments, was published in 1811 and features a scale and reference to the private apartments.
Additional Information
Windsor Castle is one of the Queen’s official residences and has been a royal palace for over 900 years. The St George’s Chapel, located within the castle grounds, is a significant example of Gothic architecture and has been the site of many royal weddings and events.
References
- https://www.windsorcastleliving.com/Marketing/FloorPlans/Units/43ba636f-593a-49c2-a689-a8b8b1a9d0e0
- https://scenetherapy.com/the-queens-private-apartment-at-windsor-castle/
- https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/highlights-of-windsor-castle
- https://www.apartments.com/windsor-castle-east-windsor-nj/d3shr2h/
- https://www.rct.uk/collection/701007/plan-of-the-ground-floor-of-the-upper-ward-in-windsor-castle-1811