Raise a Glass to Windsor: Best Pubs Near the Castle

Explore charming bars and pubs just steps from Windsor Castle.

Published: April 11, 2025
Raise a Glass to Windsor: Best Pubs Near the Castle

Looking to unwind after exploring the grandeur of Windsor Castle? You're in luck! Just a short walk from the castle, you'll find an array of delightful bars and pubs that promise to elevate your evening. Whether you're craving high-end cocktails, mid-range classics, or budget-friendly brews, we've got you covered. 

High-end 

The Ivy Windsor Brasserie 

Walking distance: 5 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Exquisite cocktails and fine wines  

Google rating: 4.6 

The Ivy Windsor Brasserie, just a short stroll from Windsor Castle, is an upscale venue that boasts a luxurious ambiance, replete with plush seating and sparkling chandeliers. 

The Ivy Royale, featuring a harmonious blend of sparkling wine and elderflower, stands out as a must-try. For wine enthusiasts, the brasserie's renowned red wine selection is sure to please. Pair your drink with one of their seasonal dishes, expertly crafted to complement each beverage. 

Weekends come alive with live piano music, adding a melodious backdrop to your dining experience. The Ivy Windsor Brasserie’s combination of attentive service, elegant setting, and top-notch drinks make it an essential stop for those exploring Windsor. 

Macdonald Windsor Hotel Bar 

Walking distance: 4 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Craft gin selection  

Google rating: 4.4 

Experience a taste of luxury at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel Bar, known for its extensive craft gin selection. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by stunning views of Windsor Castle. 

The bar's knowledgeable staff takes pride in their gin expertise, offering a selection that highlights artisanal British brands that showcase unique flavours with locally sourced botanicals. 

For those looking for something extra, their afternoon tea service, complete with champagne, adds a touch of luxury to any visit.  

The Boatman 

The Boatman 

Walking distance: 10 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Riverside views and classic cocktails  

Google rating: 4.5 

Nestled along the river, The Boatman offers a captivating setting that's hard to beat. This high-end venue combines rustic charm with modern elegance, providing guests with stunning views and a sophisticated drink menu. 

The cocktail menu features timeless classics, each crafted with precision and flair. A refreshing mojito or a smooth old-fashioned could be just what you need as you watch boats glide by on the river. Their menu, featuring seasonal dishes, pairs beautifully with the drinks, making it an excellent option for both casual and special occasions. 

Savill Garden Kitchen 

Walking distance: 15 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Artisan cocktails and fine wines  

Google rating: 4.7 

Situated within the renowned Savill Garden, this beautiful venue offers more than just artisan cocktails and fine wines. The Savill Garden Kitchen provides a serene escape, blending natural beauty with culinary excellence. 

Their cocktail menu showcases creativity, with drinks that incorporate fresh, garden-sourced ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a floral-infused gin or a zesty citrus concoction, you'll find something to please your palate. Complement your drink with a culinary treat from their menu, where locally sourced ingredients take centre stage. 

Savill Garden Kitchen’s combination of drinks, beautiful surroundings, and friendly service makes it an ideal destination for those wanting to unwind after exploring Windsor's attractions. 

The Castle Hotel Bar 

Walking distance: 3 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Vintage champagnes and bespoke cocktails  

Google rating: 4.5 

At The Castle Hotel Bar, indulge in an exquisite experience defined by vintage champagnes and bespoke cocktails.  

Their cocktail menu is impressive, with each creation showcasing a perfect balance of flavours. For those celebrating, the vintage champagne offering is unmatched, providing a taste of luxury that elevates any evening. 

With attentive service and an ambiance that exudes sophistication, The Castle Hotel Bar invites guests to savour every moment.  

 

Mid-range 

The Duchess of Cambridge Pub 

Walking distance: 8 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Traditional British ales  

Google rating: 4.5 

Step into The Duchess of Cambridge Pub, where historic charm meets modern comfort. Located just a short walk from Windsor Castle, this pub is celebrated for its selection of traditional British ales. 

Sample their range of craft ales, each with unique flavours that reflect the rich tradition of British brewing. Complement your drink with a hearty Sunday roast or a classic steak and ale pie from their menu. 

Regular events like quiz nights and live music add an extra layer, inviting everyone to join in the pub’s lively atmosphere.  

The Horse and Groom

https://www.horseandgroomwindsor.com/

Walking distance: 7 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Local craft beers  

Google rating: 4.3 

Discover a cozy retreat at The Horse and Groom, where local craft beers take centre stage. This inviting pub combines a warm atmosphere with a commitment to quality beer, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. 

Enjoy their rotating selection of local brews, each offering distinct flavours. Pair your drink with classics like steak and ale pie or fish and chips for a true British experience. 

Their outdoor beer garden provides a charming spot to relax and take in the historic surroundings.  

The Windsor Trooper 

Walking distance: 6 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Boutique ales and hearty meals  

Google rating: 4.4 

The Windsor Trooper combines the charm of a traditional British pub with the excitement of boutique ales. As you step inside, you'll find a cozy and inviting ambiance, perfect for unwinding after a day out. 

Their boutique ale selection is carefully curated, offering something for every taste and preference. The pub’s menu features hearty British fare, crafted with attention to detail and quality.  

Often hosting pub quizzes and themed events, The Windsor Trooper provides entertainment in a relaxed setting. 

The Two Brewers 

Walking distance: 5 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Cask ales and craft spirits  

Google rating: 4.5 

Stroll to The Two Brewers, a pub renowned for its cask ales and craft spirits just a short walk from Windsor Castle. 

With an impressive lineup of cask ales, sourced locally and from around the UK, beer enthusiasts are in for a treat. Their menu of traditional pub favourites ensures you’ll find something satisfying to complement your pint. 

The George Inn 

The George Inn 

Walking distance: 9 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: British lagers and friendly atmosphere  

Google rating: 4.3 

Experience British hospitality at The George Inn, a charming pub known for its selection of British lagers and welcoming vibe.  

Their British lager selection is carefully chosen to offer refreshing options that perfectly accompany their menu. Enjoy classic pub fare, from fish and chips to hearty pies. 

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or looking to mingle, this pub offers a genuine Windsor experience just a short walk from the castle. 

Budget-friendly 

The King and Castle 

Walking distance: 2 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Riverside  

Known for: Affordable pints and hearty pub food  

Google rating: 4.2 

For a wallet-friendly option near Windsor Castle, The King and Castle delivers with style. This pub is famed for its affordable pints and deliciously satisfying pub food.  

Grab a budget-friendly lager or ale while you dig into a comforting shepherd’s pie. The King and Castle’s menu offers a range of filling options perfect for refuelling after a day of exploring. 

The George 

Walking distance: 6 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Excellent value lager and cider  

Google rating: 4.3 

Discover The George, where great value meets a lively atmosphere. Known for its well-priced lagers and ciders, this pub is a popular spot for both locals and travellers seeking a fun, affordable night out. 

The pub’s menu offers plenty of cheerful pub grub—ideal for pairing with a refreshing pint. 

Swing by The George for a drink and you might turn up at one of their many event nights. 

The Carpenters Arms 

Walking distance: 8 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Budget-friendly pints and cozy atmosphere  

Google rating: 4.4 

The Carpenters Arms is a hidden gem offering budget-friendly pints in the bustling streets of Windsor.  

Enjoy a selection of local ales and ciders, each at an excellent value. Their simple yet satisfying menu of British classics like bangers and mash complements the array of drinks available. 

It's a delightful spot to experience genuine hospitality without spending a fortune. 

The Old Ticket Hall 

The Old Ticket Hall 

Walking distance: 10 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Riverside  

Known for: Late-night drinks and live music  

Google rating: 4.3 

For a night of affordable fun, head to The Old Ticket Hall. Known for its late-night drinks and vibrant live music scene, this venue offers a unique twist on traditional pub fare. Set in a former ticket office, it retains plenty of historical charm ripe for photos. 

Enjoy reasonably priced drinks while taking in live performances that range from acoustic sets to full bands. The Old Ticket Hall’s eclectic mix of entertainment guarantees an exciting experience without breaking the bank. 

The Alma 

Walking distance: 12 minutes  

Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central  

Known for: Community vibe and cost-effective drinks  

Google rating: 4.2 

The Alma welcomes you with a genuine community vibe and cost-effective drinks, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. With its friendly atmosphere and traditional pub decor, it’s a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing pint. 

Choose from a selection of well-priced beers and ciders, ensuring you’ll find something to suit your taste. The pub’s simple menu features classic British dishes that pair well with their drinks. 

Regular events like pub quizzes are also a welcome addition to the many locals who frequent it on a weekly basis.  

For more, check out how Windsor Castle shapes up to Hampton Court Palace, and stretch your legs on a walking tour. 

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Valentine’s Day in London

Valentine’s Day in London isn’t just for the loved up. It can be for those in couples, sure. But it’s increasingly a day that caters to those looking for love. And those giving love the cold shoulder this year, tired of dating and the hype and the ceremony of it all. Those who say things like, “Valentine’s Day was just invented by greetings card companies.” Those who don’t. If you take it seriously, red heart balloons and all. Or if you go round popping said balloons. There’s something for you this Valentine’s Day in London. So dig into our guide on what to do this Valentine’s Day in London, including... Romantic Thames cruises for couples An evening under the stars, straight out of the movies A couple of unique twists on traditional speed dating, for those looking for love A murder mystery evening for those who are looking for a suspect And much, much more... The View from The Shard The View from The Shard are hosting a super special Valentine's Day event this year. 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[caption id="attachment_6262" align="alignnone" width="1000"] letterslive.com[/caption] 'Cooking With Cupid' Valentine’s Cookery Class What’s on the menu tonight? It’s love, of course. With a side of green beans. This couples cookery class is designed to add a bit of spice back into the kitchen. People flirt with food. A date at a fancy restaurant. Planning a romantic meal where you cook that one thing you know how to cook. But cooking with and for your partner can quickly collapse into a question of who’s going to boil the pasta this evening and who forgot to get the milk and why did you put the carton back in the fridge if it’s empty and fine, just forget it, let’s get a takeaway and for goodness sake can you just make up your mind where you want to order from and it not take an hour and a half. This Valentine’s cookery class is looking to change all that. And it includes bottomless booze. 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Matthew Pearson
London British Pub Grub
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A Guide to British Pub Grub

Excited to try some British bites? You've come to the right place! We've crafted the ultimate pub grub guide to fuel your UK adventures. Nothing says Great Britain like sharing a meal in a pub - the locals' living room. You'll find value, casual atmosphere and hearty classic dishes, all washed down with top drinks. A pub visit is a must for any trip to these Isles. To help you find the best bites, we've researched pubs across the country and their specialties. This guide highlights traditional British staples, from fish and chips to ploughman's lunches. Whether you're after a light lunch or a full evening out, follow our recommendations and you'll leave satisfied. Don't forget to check the specials board! You’ll most likely find interesting ‘twists’ on pub favourites like special pies, curry, burgers or even sausages of the week! Dine out in a relaxed environment If you’re looking for a cosy atmosphere and home-cooked food, look no further than a pub. Casual dining is very popular in the UK and you often won’t need to book. Depending on the size and type of pub) you can sit in the bar area or a separate section for dining. Best of all, pub grub offers value for money and large portions! If you want to experience a London pub crawl, we've got some great recommendations. Read to the bottom for our list of fantastic pubs you need to put on your to-visit list. Fun for all the family Most pubs offer family-friendly opportunities to enjoy a meal out in a relaxed atmosphere (although we recommend you double-check first). When it comes to pub grub, there’s usually something for everyone. And if there isn’t a specific kids' menu, you can ask for smaller portion sizes or share some side dishes. A lot of pubs have beer gardens which are lovely in the summer months – even better if there’s some play equipment for the kids. Enjoy some great draught beer Draught beer, bitter, or ale are what pubs are famous for, and traditional British beers are seeing a revival. It’s hard to beat the quality and choice of beer in other eateries, so if you’re in a pub why not try a beef and ale pie? Or a delicious beer-battered cod, with chunky chips? What’s on the menu? Traditional British pub dishes haven’t changed much over the years, although you can now find the addition of non-traditional favourites inspired by cooking from all over the world. Check the menu before you choose your pub – you may be in for a surprise. Some, for example, serve Thai food only. Here are some traditional British pub grub faves: Typical main meals in London pubs Sunday Roast Usually served at lunchtime, the roast is usually chicken, beef, lamb or pork, though vegetarian alternatives are often available. Served with roast potatoes, a mix of fresh vegetables and gravy. And don’t forget the trimmings! Roast beef isn’t complete without Yorkshire pudding (a baked batter pudding, best filled with gravy), mustard and horseradish sauce. Pork is delicious with apple sauce; roast lamb and mint sauce belong together. Don’t worry too much if it’s not a Sunday – many pubs offer roasts throughout the week. Steak and Kidney Pie A savoury pie with a pastry lid, filled with a mixture of diced beef and kidney, fried onion and brown gravy. Not for the faint-hearted, it’s a great winter warmer and delicious with a side order of vegetables. Bangers and Mash A British staple named for its mashed potatoes and sausages, but the gravy is just as important. The type of sausages used varies, but a curly Cumberland is a popular choice. Filling and comforting, it's exactly what you want from British pub grub. Toad in the Hole Not as strange as it sounds and certainly has nothing to do with toads. This is another sausage dish, but this time the sausages are baked in Yorkshire pudding batter. It’s served with loads of gravy and fresh vegetables. Fisherman’s Pie Not in the mood for meat? Fisherman’s pie is classic pub grub. The pie is made with smoked whitefish in a white or cheddar cheese sauce, baked in the oven and topped with mashed potato. It can also contain prawns and hard-boiled eggs and traditionally comes served with garden peas. Fish and Chips No trip to the UK is complete without fish and chips, and the best thing about ordering this dish in a pub is that the batter will often have been made with some of the pub’s delicious draught beer. Try it with some tartare sauce and mushy peas. Ploughman’s Lunch A traditional lunch brought out to the fields by ploughmen, this cold plate of cheese, pickle and crusty bread is simple yet delicious. You might also have some apples, boiled eggs, ham or pickled onions on the side. As its name suggests, you eat a Ploughman's at lunchtime. Vegetarian and vegan eats Hello there, veggies and vegans. You have nothing to worry about. When in London, you'll find that most pubs have a great selection of vegetarian dishes, including vegetarian nut roasts with onion gravy, battered tofu & chips, as well as pies and pasta dishes. You can often customise dishes and order them without the meat element, too - don't be afraid to ask as pubs will usually do their best to accommodate dietary requirements. What's for dessert? Treacle sponge pudding Are you still hungry? That's fair enough. Try this typical British dessert – steamed sponge, with treacle on top and usually served with hot custard or ice cream. Knickerbocker Glory Finally, here’s one for the kids. A 'knickerbocker glory' is a colourfully layered cream, ice cream and fruit sundae served in a tall glass. A long spoon is essential if you want to get to the bottom! Here's the list of our top pubs in London The Prospect of Whitby - Wapping, Tower Hill The Royal Oak - Bloomsbury The Harp - Chandos Place, Covent Garden The Duke of Edinburgh - Cromwell Road, South Kensington Trafalgar Tavern - Park Lane, St. James's The Mayflower - Rotherhithe The Lamb and Flag - Covent Garden The Ten Bells - Commercial Street, Spitalfields The George - Great Portland St. - Great Portland Street, Marylebone The Blue Posts - Rupert Street, Soho And here are our favourites outside of London The Tan Hill Inn - Tan Hill, Swaledale, North Yorkshire The Salutation Inn - Ham, Gloucestershire The Dolphin Inn - Porlock Weir, Somerset The George & Dragon - Haddenham, Buckinghamshire The Bell Inn - Westhay, Glastonbury, Somerset If you’re looking for good food and friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with a British pub - they're perfect for refuelling after a day of sightseeing. Of course, the menu will vary from place to place (from gastro-pubs to carveries and independent locals to national chains), but you’ll often find staple pub grub favourites to suit every appetite and occasion. Don't forget to check out a guided London pub tour while you are at it! Experience everything London has to offer with The London Pass® Planning your London trip? With The London Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. ✈️ Buy The London Pass® ✈️  
Vanessa Teo
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