Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of the British Monarch, and is well worth a visit if for no other reason than any Briton should have as much right to it as the monarch.
The castle dates back to the time of William the Conqueror and occupies a splendid position, overlooking the Thames, its massive Round Tower and bold architectural front, is an impressive sight. The view from the Round Tower is very extensive and ranges over the Great Park and Eton College those by, which can also be seen from the Terrace.
When the Court is absent the State Apartments and all principal portions of the Castle are open to the public at 9.45am daily throughout the year.
The suite of State Apartments to which the public are admitted consists of the following rooms; The Van Dyck Room, the Zuccarelli Room, the State Ante. room, the Grand Vestibule, the Waterloo Chamber, the Grand Reception Room, St. George's Hall, the Guard Chamber, the Queen's Presence Chamber, and the Queen's Audience Chamber. Throughout these Apartments are seen a splendid collection of pictures, tapestry, china, and rich furniture.
St. George's Chapel, within the precincts of the Cattle, was constructed by Edward IV. (whose tomb is in the North Aisle), and is closely associated with the Order of the Garter.
The beautiful Choir, besides being set apart for the services of the Church, is also used for the ceremony of installing the Knights of the Garter. The banners of the different knights hang over each stall, emblazoned with the different armorial bearings, etc. Over the Altar is the Albert Memorial Window, designed by the late Sir Gilbert Scott. In the Choir Henry Viii. , his Queen, Jane Seymour, and Charles I. lie buried.