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Castle of Windsor - London Hotels .com

Windsor Castle

This is the most dramatic site for a castle visittors will probably ever see. It is the biggest and the most ancient occupied castle in the world today. Windsor Castle was built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror and since then has been remodeled by successive kings and queens.

This impressive castle encapsulates 900 years of British history. It covers an area of 13 acres and contains a royal palace, a magnificent chapel and the homes and workplaces of a large number of people.

Visitors can wander into the glorious State Apartments, which are furnished with some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Canaletto, Gainsborough and the famous triple portrait of Charles I by Sir Anthony van Dyck. Unfortunately, more than 100 rooms at the castle were destroyed by a fire in 1992. There were no related deaths but some of the castle's artistic treasures got destroyed.

If you are there from October to March, you can also enjoy visiting the George IV's private quarters (the Semi-State Rooms). These are the most richly decorated interiors of any castle you have ever seen.

Another place that is worth visiting is St George's Chapel. You will be mystified with the Gothic architecture. The chapel is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, the senior order of British Chivalry established in 1348 by Edward III. Within the chapel you will find tombs of ten sovereigns, including Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour, and Charles I.

While at the Windsor Castle, visit the Queen Mary's Dolls' House, the most famous dolls' house in the world. You would be fascinated by the collection of the most exquisite and rare dolls. Until 11th March 2007, you can visit The Drawings Gallery at the Windsor Castle which is an Exhibition of Photographs to celebrate the 80th birthday of Her Madgesty The Queen. It conveys the Queen's public and family life over her lifetime.

The nearest hotels to Windsor Castle is The Kensington Close Hotel & Health Spa. You may also want to try Radisson Edwardian Heathrow which is closer to the Heathrow Airport.

Tube Station: Windsor