Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, and has been a royal residence and fortress for over 900 years. The castle sits high above the River Thames and was founded by William the Conqueror in the 1070s.

For nearly 1000 years, Windsor Castle has been continuously inhabited and altered by successive monarchs. Edward III created the enormous St. George's Hall in the 1360s for the knights of his newly founded Order of the Garter.

Ten British monarchs are buried in St. George's Chapel: Edward IV, Henry VI, Henry VIII, Charles I, George III, George IV, William IV, Edward VII, George V and George VI. During World War II, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret Rose lived at Windsor while their parents supported the war effort.

A major fire on 20 November 1992 damaged or destroyed nine principal rooms and over 100 other rooms. Today the castle is used for investitures, audiences and state visits, with state banquets in St. George's Hall which can accommodate 160 guests.