Where to Drink in Windsor and Eton, Berkshire
Pint of bitter ale or cream tea, mam? On a trip to Windsor, both are a must. Raise a glass (or cup) to Britain’s finest tipples in the country pubs and tip-top tea rooms this rather regal town.
02 June, 2022
- Words by
- Sarah Leigh Bannerman
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Two Brewers
Situated at the end of the Long Walk and decorated with an abundance of bright flowers, the Two Brewers pub might just be the most beautiful sight you see on any given day. A welcome one, too, if you’ve maxed out your step count on the trek from the Copper Horse statue to the Cambridge Gate entrance of Windsor Castle and the Great Park. This establishment is always brimming with cheer, with guests spilling out onto the Park Street pavement to make the most of the sun on a summer’s day. Much like the rest of Windsor, it’s historical – the building dates back to 1709. Stop for a refreshing sip of “the best English beer” after your walk, then stay for a top-notch lunch.
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Clarence Tea Room
Jam or cream first? The best place to have this debate in Windsor is Clarence Tea Room, where you’ll find the best cream tea in town, bar none. The setting is delightfully quaint – full of chintzy charm and filled with the chatter of the multi-generational crowd. Traditional teas, more elaborate afternoon teas and, of course, the sparkling version, come served on artfully mismatched china reminiscent of a home collection that’s been honed over decades. The side dish? A healthy helping of nostalgia and a welcome reprieve from the minimalist styling found in more modern local alternatives.
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The Fox & Hounds
If there’s one place to go and experience what weekend life in Windsor could be like on a regular basis, The Fox and Hounds is it. This relaxed pub, with its tempting outdoor tables, generous portions and seriously chunky chips, is just a short drive from the town centre, but feels worlds apart from the tourist-heavy streets. It’s positioned by the Bishops Gate entrance to the Great Park in Englefield Green and, as such, it’s not uncommon to see a horse tethered to the fence in its garden. Riders dismount and refresh after a hack through the neighbouring grounds, setting the tone for a relaxed, locally charged atmosphere. Family-friendly, dog-friendly, anyone-friendly, this is one of Windsor’s true gems.