The Traveling Taylors

Most visitors to Windsor & Eton make a beeline for Windsor Castle and maybe wander across the bridge to peek at Eton College. But tucked between these iconic sights are dozens of lesser-known corners, scenic hideaways, and local favorites waiting to be explored. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, here are 9 hidden gems in Windsor & Eton that will make your trip feel refreshingly off the beaten path.

1. The Crooked House of Windsor

This famously slanted 17th-century building leans so dramatically it looks like it might topple over.

• Tucked behind Windsor Guildhall, it’s easy to miss unless you know where to look.
• Once a tea room, it’s now a privately owned curiosity—but still Instagram-worthy.

📍 Where to find it: Market Cross House, right behind the Guildhall.

2. Bachelor’s Acre Park

A quiet green space just a few minutes from the castle, perfect for a peaceful break.

• Features a whimsical children’s playground and picnic benches.
• Often missed by tourists who stick to the riverside.

🌳 Local families love it—and your feet will too after a morning of sightseeing.

This city has a lot of great green areas you can enjoy. If you plan on spending time outdoors, insect repellent towelettes like these can help keep mosquitoes and other bugs away during long sightseeing days.

3. Eton College Natural History Museum

Free and fascinating, this museum inside Eton College is a hidden gem for curious minds.

• Compact but packed with fossils, stuffed animals, and creepy crawlies.
• Open on Sunday afternoons—check hours before visiting.

🦕 Great for kids or adults who love quirky science finds.

4. Jubilee Fountain & Goswell Road Garden

A small, tranquil garden with a royal-themed fountain, tucked away behind shops and car parks.

• Features benches, shade trees, and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Ideal for a quick break or light lunch stop.

💡 Locals often use this space as a shortcut—most tourists walk right past.

5. Eton Walkway & Bronze Trail Markers

Look down! As you explore Eton High Street, you’ll notice bronze discs in the pavement.

• They mark the Eton Walkway, a self-guided trail that highlights 18 points of interest.
• Includes buildings, bridges, and quirky details with royal connections.

🎓 A fun way to turn your stroll into a scavenger hunt. Comfortable shoes are essential when exploring and many travelers recommend supportive walking sneakers like these for full days of sightseeing.

6. The Two Brewers Pub

Hidden on a side street just behind the castle, this cozy pub is a local secret.

• Classic British pub feel with hearty food and ales.
• Fewer tourists than the busier pubs on the main street.

🍻 Perfect for a quiet drink after a castle tour.

7. Meadow Lane to Home Park Walk

This scenic riverside trail behind Eton College offers beautiful views and a quiet escape.

• Walk along the Brocas Meadows for castle views across the Thames.
• Often empty except for joggers, dog walkers, and locals.

🚶‍♀️ A relaxing detour that feels miles away from the crowds. Some travelers carry a compact crossbody-style fanny pack like this one because it keeps valuables secure while walking through busy areas.

8. Royal Windsor Maze (Seasonal)

Sometimes set up in Alexandra Gardens or Bachelor’s Acre, this temporary maze is fun for kids.

• Not always there—usually installed for summer or special events.
• Check with Windsor events calendars before your visit.

🧩 A surprising little adventure if you catch it at the right time.

9. Antique and Book Shops in Eton

Eton’s High Street is sprinkled with independent antique stores and secondhand bookshops.

• Quiet, inviting, and full of character.
• Perfect for slow browsing and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

📚 Great place to find royal memorabilia, vintage finds, or a classic UK read.

🔎 Explore Windsor & Eton Beyond the Obvious

Sure, Windsor Castle and Eton College are iconic—but the real magic of this riverside pair lies in the hidden corners and quiet paths most tourists never see. With a little wandering and curiosity, you’ll uncover a slower, more local side of Windsor & Eton that’s just as charming as its royal front.