Discover the rich heritage and fascinating stories behind Windsor's historical venues.
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest continuously inhabited castle in the world. No other royal residence has played such an important part in the history of the nation. With a first royal wedding taking place in Windsor Castle in 1121 when King Henry I married his second wife Adelicia of Louvain, you can just imagine the incredible secret history behind those Castle walls!
If you’re looking for an event venue with history and heritage, you’ll be spoilt for choice in the Royal Borough area.
Why should you choose a historical venue for your next corporate event?
• Unbeatable atmosphere: Historic venues offer a unique and memorable setting that's impossible to replicate, adding a special ambience to your event.
• Brand alignment: Associating your event with a renowned historical site enhances your brand’s prestige and aligns you with iconic figures and events.
• Elevated experience: The rich history of the venue elevates the entire event experience, making it feel more significant and meaningful.
• Social media appeal: Guests love sharing their experiences at unique locations. A historic venue provides plenty of share-worthy moments that boost your event’s visibility.
• Inspiration and creativity: Historic sites can inspire creativity and innovation, providing an environment that encourages attendees to think outside the box.
• Credibility and gravitas: The formality and gravitas of a historic venue add credibility to your business and the event, reinforcing your message and objectives.
Here are a few gems to get you started.
Royal Holloway, University of London
Today's Royal Holloway, University of London is formed from two colleges, founded by two social pioneers, Elizabeth Jesser Reid and Thomas Holloway in the mid-1800s. They were among the first places in Britain where women could access higher education. By 1886 the Grade 1 listed Founder’s Building was complete and opened by Queen Victoria who bestowed the title ‘Royal’. The building’s flamboyant architecture makes it one of the most impressive university buildings in the world.
Ditton Manor
Ditton Manor’s rich history dates back to before 1066 when William FitzAnsculf was granted use of the estate by William the Conqueror. Mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, Ditton Manor was then valued at around 30 shillings. Over the centuries the estate changed hands through various families facing historical events like the War of the Roses and the English Civil War.
Windsor Guildhall
Windsor’s Guildhall was designed by Sir Thomas Fitch in 1687 who oversaw its initial construction but died in 1688 before the building was completed. The Guildhall was completed in 1690 and is a Grade I listed building. The Windsor Guildhall was the chosen wedding venue of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla (when they were The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall), as well as that of Sir Elton John and David Furnish.
Cumberland Lodge
Cumberland Lodge was built in the 17th century by John Byfield, a captain in Oliver Cromwell’s army, and was originally known as Byfield House. It was the official residence of the Rangers of Windsor Great Park. The first to reside at the Lodge was Baptist May, Keeper of the Privy Purse. In 1872, the Lodge became the home of Queen Victoria’s daughter, Princess Helena, and her husband Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein, until she died in 1923. In 1947, Cumberland Lodge became an educational foundation.
De Vere Beaumont Estate
Dating back to the 14th century, the original house at De Vere Beaumont Estate was first built for Lord Weymouth, but it has spent the majority of its life – from 1854-1967 – as Beaumont College, a Jesuit public school. From the pillared grand entrance – complete with school crests – to the original school-boy hats and replica typewriters found on the walls, and refashioned as art, there are subtle nods to this back-story throughout the building. Following a multi-million-pound refurbishment, today you’ll find a wealth of these original features still intact along with a 21st-century style that ensures business, weddings and training are anything but usual.
Easthampstead Park
Easthampstead Park is a Victorian mansion on the edge of Wokingham and Bracknell. The house is a Grade II listed building “of historic and architectural interest, in Jacobean style with curved gables, pierced stone parapet and stone frontispiece of naive classicism”. Records of Easthampstead Park date back to at least the 7th century, when King Cynegils of Wessex had a home here. The estate originally extended to 5,000 acres (20km2) and has been used for many purposes over the centuries, including a park reserved for royal hunting, part of a large private estate, a refuge during the war, a teacher training college, a nuclear bunker and a comprehensive school!
The Royal Adelaide Hotel
The Royal Adelaide Hotel is an elegant and historic property dates back to the 1800s and is situated in a coveted location opposite the famous Long Walk and a short stroll from Windsor Castle. It was said to have been built for Queen Adelaide, the wife of King William IV.
Great Fosters
Great Fosters is our endlessly charming Tudor estate steeped in royal history and located just outside Windsor in the heart of Surrey. Set in 50 acres of iconic gardens and grounds, complete with listed parterres, a fountain, Saxon moat, Japanese bridge and even a sundial gifted to the Estate by Sir Francis Drake himself, the instantly recognisable red-brick facade and chimney tops of Great Fosters is a sight to behold indeed. Nestled in the heart of Surrey, Great Fosters boasts over four centuries of fascinating history. The hotel is home to many unique features that reflect its rich history, including an original royal crest of Queen Elizabeth I that can be found above the main porch, dating back to 1598. Framed on three sides by a Saxon moat, the formal gardens of Great Fosters are both extensive and exceptional. They were originally designed by W H Romaine Walker and Gilbert Jenkins and are among the finest Arts and Crafts gardens in Europe.
The Castle Hotel Windsor
The Castle Hotel Windsor is situated amongst some of the most historic examples of architecture in the United Kingdom. The hotel began life in 1528 as The Mermaid Inn – humbly brewing beer and cider for the people of Windsor. By the 19th century, The Castle Hotel Windsor had solidified its reputation as the connoisseur’s choice of accommodation in the area. The hotel was so popular among the elite that the Duke of Wellington stepped in to dine after his victory over Napoleon at the battle of Waterloo.
With such a wonderfully rich history in the area, there are a multitude of ways to incorporate history and heritage into your next corporate event or draw from stories in history to illustrate your company values.
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