When most people visit this charming little town, they do so with the intention of seeing its world-famous historic castle. But there is much more to this town than its obvious royal connections. For a start, its pretty winding streets and smart shopping centres boast around 100 unique independent shops, antique stores, and souvenir retailers, particularly around the castle.

It also boasts all the midmarket and more upmarket chain stores, so there really is something to suit all shoppers’ pockets. There are around 150 shops in total, and roughly two-thirds of them are independents. But one of the most interesting and quirky sights in this town is its crooked tea shop, said to be the oldest in England. Dating from 1687, it is known is the oldest teahouse in England and Grade II listed. The building now stands on “an outrageous slant” which is of course part of its charm. It has three storeys and bay windows to the front and rear and apart from the castle, is the most photographed building in this town.

The Crooked House of Windsor is next to the Guildhall on Windsor High Street. Initially known as the “Market Cross House,” it stood for nearly 100 years in an “Uncrooked” state until its demolition in 1687 to make way for the neighbouring Guildhall.

At that time, a preservation society protested the demolition and insisted on the immediate rebuilding of the structure. But it was reconstructed from unseasoned green oak, which subsequently buckled as it dried. The result? A structurally sound but curiously wonky building that continues to stand today.

The Crooked House is currently home to The Shambles, a cafe, bar and bottle shop at number 51 on the high street. It’s website says: “The Shambles is a cosy café, bar and bottle shop hidden in the famous ‘Crooked House’, a stone’s throw from Windsor Castle. 

“We are proudly independent and serve food and drink that we love, focusing on small wine producers, seasonal produce and top notch coffee.  We are open daily for breakfast and lunch with a small plates offering in the evening.”

Aside from a must-visit The Crooked House of Windsor, there are plenty of shopping opportunities in this Berkshire town, once you’ve seen Windsor Castle and trudged the famous “Long Walk”, of course.

At nearly 2.5 miles long, it is a straight, tree-lined avenue in Great Windsor Park stretching from Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse Statue of King George III, offering iconic views, deer, and a ceremonial path used for royal events, so perfect for a historic stroll. 

But then, back to the shopping! Windsor offers a mix of high-street brands, unique independent shops, antique stores, and souvenir retailers, particularly around the castle, with the historic Windsor Royal Shopping centre being a key spot for both fashion and food.

Shoppers can find everything from popular names to specialist royal memorabilia and unique finds, especially in areas like the High Street and Thames Street, plus antique treasures across the river in  Eton.

The town boasts dozens of independent shops from the quirky gift shop NOMAD Windsor to Warwicks Menswear, House of Gifts, Nea Boutique for womenswear, The Windsor House for stylish homeware, and the Castle Fine Art gallery and antiques store, to name but a few.

For foodies, Fudge Kitchen is a must ,specialising in handmade gourmet fudge in a mouthwatering variety of flavours.

Windsor’s main shopping hubs are centered around the historic Windsor Royal Shopping Centre, a Victorian railway station with major brands and food, and Windsor Yards featuring high-street stores like Zara, plus the main pedestrian thoroughfares of Peascod Street and the High Street with a mix of independents and big names.

You’ll find upmarket fashion, unique gifts, and a charming atmosphere throughout these areas, with Eton High Street just across the bridge offering antiques and boutiques as well. 

Just 50 miles west of London, Windsor is easily reached by the M4 while Windsor & Eton Central train station is right in the town centre, part of the Royal Shopping Centre and steps from Windsor Castle.