Bring your family to Windsor Castle this summer for a day of exploration inside the Castle’s very own secret garden. On Thursdays and Fridays in August, families will be granted special access to the Moat Garden for explorer walks, outdoor art and picnicking. Nestled beneath the iconic Round Tower, this enchanting garden is full of rich history and fascinating stories. Discover its hidden corners, be inspired by its beauty and climb the motte to enjoy breathtaking views.

Family explorer walks

12:00, 12:45, 13:30, 14:15, 15:00

• For children aged 5+
• Pre-booking available on the day

These fun and informal walks are perfect for children studying castles at school. The Moat Garden was not always a place of beauty, designed for pleasure. Look for the clues that reveal the Castle’s past as a formidable fortress. Travel back nearly 1,000 years with our expert presenters. Find out why Windsor was built and whether its mighty defences were ever breached.

Each walk will last approximately 25 minutes, leaving from the Moat Garden entrance. Groups will be limited to 10 people. Places can be pre-booked on the day from 11:00 at the Moat Garden entrance. Any remaining places will be filled on a first come, first served basis.

Outdoor art and picnicking

12:00–16:00 (last entry 15:30)

• For children aged 5+
• Drop-in

Encounter all the life of the garden, from colourful blooms to creepy crawlies, as recorded by gardener and artist Alexander Marshal over 300 years ago. Relax with a picnic and create your own floral masterpieces based on Marshal’s book of flowers.

Please note, due to the current need for social distancing, places for the activities are limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis.

Practical information

• In the event of wet weather, the Moat Garden will not open.
• It will only be possible to climb the motte during a family explorer walk.
• Regrettably, the Moat Garden is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
• Pushchairs can be left at the Moat Garden entrance.

All events at Windsor Castle will be managed in line with COVID-secure procedures. Please see our Welcome Back page for more information.