Historic Friar Street in Reading circa 1888 with Queen Victoria statue and shops

Statue Of Queen Victoria

Statue of Queen Victoria, Windsor, United Kingdom: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Statue of Queen Victoria in Windsor is one of the town’s most distinguished landmarks, standing proudly at the foot of Castle Hill, directly facing Windsor Castle. Commissioned in 1887 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, this bronze monument is not only an artistic masterpiece by Sir Joseph Edgar Boehm but also a lasting symbol of Windsor’s enduring royal connections and Victorian heritage. This detailed guide explores the statue’s history, artistic and cultural significance, practical visitor information, accessibility, and nearby attractions to help you make the most of your visit to this iconic Windsor site. For further background and official information, refer to resources such as the Royal Windsor Website, Victorian Web, and VisitBritain’s Windsor guide.

Historic view of Friar Street, Reading, circa 1888, featuring Queen Victoria statue and horse-drawn cab

Introduction
Historical Background
Artistic Design and Symbolism
Cultural and Ceremonial Context
Visitor Information
Nearby Attractions
Practical Facilities and Amenities
Safety, Etiquette, and Events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
References

Historical Background

Origins and Commissioning

The Statue of Queen Victoria in Windsor was commissioned as a public tribute to commemorate the monarch’s Golden Jubilee in 1887, marking 50 years of her reign. The project was funded by local subscriptions, demonstrating the community’s deep respect for the Queen (Royal Windsor Website). Sir Joseph Edgar Boehm, a renowned sculptor and Sculptor in Ordinary to the Queen, was chosen to create this lasting monument (Victorian Web). The statue was unveiled on June 22, 1887, in a grand ceremony attended by Queen Victoria herself, and was later adorned for her Diamond Jubilee in 1897.

Design and Artistic Features

The statue is crafted in bronze and stands atop a striking red Aberdeen granite plinth. Queen Victoria is depicted in full regalia, yet with a subtle human touch—she wears a small coronet, reflecting her personal preference over heavier state crowns (Victorian Web). The monument faces the town, symbolizing the Queen’s connection with her people. The plinth bears inscriptions commemorating her Golden Jubilee, anchoring the statue in its historical context.

Windsor’s Royal Significance

Windsor Castle, located just behind the statue, is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and has been a royal residence for over 900 years (AllTrippers). The statue’s prominent placement at Castle Hill not only enhances its visual presence but also underlines Windsor’s central role in royal ceremonies, commemorations, and British history (Royal Windsor Website).

Artistic Design and Symbolism

Queen Victoria’s statue reflects late 19th-century sculptural trends, emphasizing realism and regal authority. She is depicted standing, adorned in ceremonial attire, often shown with orb and sceptre—symbols of monarchy and imperial power. The use of bronze ensures durability and conveys a sense of permanence, while the detailed rendering of robes and insignia typifies Victorian attention to lifelike detail (Yale Center For British Art). The statue and its classical motifs, such as laurel wreaths and coats of arms, reinforce continuity with Britain’s monarchical traditions.

Cultural and Ceremonial Context

The placement of the statue in Windsor underscores the town’s close association with the monarchy. Queen Victoria’s reign (1837–1901) was a period of significant transformation, and public statues like this one became focal points for civic pride and royal commemoration. In Windsor, the monument anchors ceremonies such as jubilees, coronations, and national celebrations, serving as a living link between past and present (The Empty Nest Explorers).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Admission

Hours: The statue is outdoors and accessible 24 hours a day, year-round.
Admission: There is no fee or ticket required to view the statue. It is freely accessible in a public space (VisitBritain).
Best Visiting Times: Early mornings or late afternoons provide softer light for photography and fewer crowds. The statue is also beautifully illuminated at night.

Accessibility

The statue is located on a smooth, paved plaza at the base of Castle Hill, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers (VisaHelpUK).
Both Windsor & Eton Central and Windsor & Eton Riverside train stations are within a 10-minute walk.
Local bus routes and taxi ranks provide convenient access.

Travel and Photography Tips

Getting There: Windsor is easily reached from London by train. Follow signs to Windsor Castle; the statue is directly in front.
Photography: Morning light is ideal for frontal shots. Wide-angle photos from Castle Hill capture both the statue and castle backdrop. Arrive early or late to avoid crowds.
Facilities: Public restrooms, cafes, and shops are nearby. Benches are available for rest and reflection.

Nearby Attractions

Windsor Castle: The primary royal residence, offering tours of state apartments and St George’s Chapel (Windsor.gov.uk).
St George’s Chapel: Within the castle, renowned for royal weddings and funerals.
Windsor Great Park: A vast green space with scenic walks and monuments.
The Long Walk: An iconic avenue stretching from the castle into the park.
Eton College: Across the river, a historic school with a picturesque high street.

Practical Facilities and Amenities

Restrooms: Available at Windsor Royal Shopping and near the castle.
Shops and Cafés: Numerous options on Windsor High Street and Windsor Royal Shopping arcade (Wanderlog).
Accessibility: Level, paved walkways for wheelchairs and strollers.
Dog Policy: Dogs are permitted around the statue but not within castle grounds.

Safety, Etiquette, and Events

Respectful Behavior: Climbing or sitting on the statue is prohibited.
Events: The statue is a focal point for royal celebrations, Changing of the Guard ceremonies, and local festivals. Temporary restrictions may apply during official events (Tourist Places Guide).
Weather: Windsor’s climate is mild but changeable—bring rain gear if needed and dress for the season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Statue of Queen Victoria?
A: The statue is accessible 24/7, all year round.

Q: Are tickets required to visit the statue?
A: No tickets are needed; the statue is in a public space and free to visit.

Q: Is the statue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the area is level and paved for easy access.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Many Windsor walking tours include the statue as a stop. Self-guided audio tours are also available.

Q: What are the best nearby attractions?
A: Windsor Castle, St George’s Chapel, Windsor Great Park, The Long Walk, and Eton College.

Conclusion

The Statue of Queen Victoria in Windsor is a remarkable testament to Britain’s royal and artistic legacy. Easily accessible and set against the dramatic backdrop of Windsor Castle, it offers visitors a chance to reflect on history, enjoy neoclassical artistry, and experience civic pride. Plan your visit to coincide with Windsor’s many royal and cultural events, explore nearby attractions, and capture memorable photos. For a richer experience, download the Audiala app for audio guides and follow Windsor’s official tourism resources for up-to-date information.