The history of Windsor Castle
The UK’s royal family are one of the major draw-cards for visitors to Great Britain. While Buckingham Palace and St James Palace can be admired from the streets of London, just a short distance from the capital you will find the Queen’s primary residence — Windsor Castle. This is a stunning castle and it welcomes visitors throughout the year.
In this article we take a look at the fascinating history of Windsor Castle so that you have a bit more of an appreciation of the significance of this castle ahead of your visit.
The construction of the castle
It was William the Conqueror who originally built Windsor Castle — not long after he first led the Norman conquest of Britain in 1066.
As part of their defences, the Normans established a ring of castles around London — each was a day’s march from London and from each other, a distance of 20 miles. The location of Windsor was particularly strategic due to its position on the River Thames and its access to Windsor Forest.
When first constructed the castle was in the traditional motte and bailey style favoured by the Normans.
Windsor wasn’t initially used as a royal residence, but Henry I married his wife Adela here in 1121 and it was used as one of their homes. Henry II greatly expanded the castle’s buildings between 1165 and 1179. Since that time, Windsor has remained one of the favoured residences of the ruling families and successive monarchs have renovated and extended the castle to the magnificent construction that we see today.
The castle under attack
There have been numerous occasions throughout history when Windsor Castle has come under siege or attack as the fortunes of the ruling families waxed and waned.
- Windsor was besieged in 1214 during the revolt of the English barons (which led to the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215.
- The 15th century was a particularly volatile period in English history, culminating in the War of the Roses — Windsor changed hands a number of times as the various forces fought for the throne.
- Henry VIII favoured the castle and Elizabeth I often saw it as a safe haven in times of trouble.
- The civil war of the 17th century saw the castle looted and falling into disrepair, but it was quickly reinstated once the Monarchy resumed.
It was during the First World War that King George V responded to growing anti-German sentiment and decided to the change his family’s dynastic name from the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, taking their new name from the castle that was their home, becoming the House of Windsor.
The castle today
Having barely survived a major fire in 1992, the major renovations and repair work required as a result now leave Windsor as a surprisingly modern and functional castle.
It is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the longest-occupied palace in Europe. As well as being one of the Queen’s favourite residences, it regularly hosts state functions and important ceremonial events.
The castle remains a fascinating part of Britain’s history but also very much part of its future.
