UK - Windsor & Eton

Can you believe my first trip to London was a business trip? I spent most of the week-long visit cloistered in the meeting room. Finally, on the last day, my friend, Misha offered to show me around. I had less than 4 hours before checking in for my flight back to Kuala Lumpur and since we were staying at the Renaissance Heathrow, the nearest place was Windsor.

By the time we reached Windsor, it was too late for the last admission (4.00pm) into Windsor Castle. We ended up seeing the castle from the outside. This gives me an excuse to go back in the future!

We then proceeded to a walking tour around Windsor town, Eton and Windsor Riverfront. We made photo stops at "The Long Walk", The Guildhall where Prince Charles and Camilla got married, Crooked House of Windsor (also known as the Market Cross House) and Windsor Royal Station before crossing over to Eton.

I was told that if you don't visit the Crooked House of Windsor, you have not truly experienced Windsor. The original Crooked House of Windsor, a quintessential English Tea Room, was built in 1592, the time when Queen Elizabeth was still on the throne and William Shakespeare was writing his plays. The building that survives now is what was rebuilt soon after. It acquired its famous tilt after being restructured in 1718 with unseasoned green oak. I was told that there is a secret passage to Windsor Castle, now blocked, from its basement. This is reputed to have been used both for the illicit meeting between King Charles and his mistress, Nell Gywn and for taking provisions to the castle kitchens. Crooked House of Windsor is situated right next to the Guildhall and could be easily missed.

Windsor is blessed with a delightful riverfront, the River Thames. Behind the riverfront is a large traditional park called The Alexander Gardens where you will find the graceful giant Royal Windsor Wheel which will be in operation until November 1, 2009. Along the riverfront, there are lots of swans, ducks and geese waiting to be fed. I could sit here all day long, reading a book, sipping hot English tea and be mesmerized by the beautiful scenery.

Across the bank, you'll see Eton, where you will find England's most eminent public school, Eton College. Eton College was the oldest (founded in 1440 by King Henry VI) and the most expensive school in the country. Its historic buildings are an integral part of England's national heritage. Eton has educated 18 former British Prime Ministers including the Duke of Wellington, Walpole, Pitt the Elder, MacMillan and Douglas-Home. Visits to the college must be guided and pre-booking is essential. No food and drinks are allowed within the grounds. No photography is allowed at the College Chapel and the Museum of Eton Life.

Before we head back to Heathrow airport, we stopped for a drink at Browns Restaurant and Bar. It has fantastic view across river Thames and is a great place for people-watching. Not being able to get inside of Windsor Castle, was a blessing in disguise. I enjoyed the walk and the breathtaking views which I could have missed since I've got so little time to spend in Windsor! I did get to visit London again two weeks later, in August. This time for a 3 weeks vacation.