Windsor in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Windsor

10°C (50°F) High Temp

2°C (36°F) Low Temp

65mm (2.6 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect autumn foliage along the Thames Path - maples and oaks peak in early-mid November creating impressive riverside walks without summer crowds
Windsor Castle's State Apartments are comfortably cool for extended touring - no overheating in heavy rooms, plus 40% fewer visitors than summer months
Christmas markets begin late November with authentic British atmosphere - mulled wine, mince pies, and craft stalls before the December tourist rush
Hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to peak summer - luxury accommodations like boutique inns become genuinely affordable for weekend stays

Considerations

Daylight ends by 4:30pm - outdoor sightseeing must be completed early, limiting time for Thames walks and castle grounds exploration
Windsor Great Park can be muddy and slippery after rain - proper waterproof footwear essential for the Long Walk and Savill Garden areas
Some outdoor attractions like Legoland Windsor operate reduced hours or close weekdays - family activities become more limited

Best Activities in November

Windsor Castle State Apartments Tours

November's cool temperatures make the ornate State Apartments comfortable for extended visits. Fewer crowds mean better views of Queen Mary's Dolls' House and St George's Chapel. Audio guides work better when you're not rushed past exhibits. The castle's heating creates cozy contrast to crisp outdoor courtyards.

Booking Tip: Book tickets online 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend visits. Weekday visits often available same-day in November. Entry typically costs £28-32 adults. Look for combination tickets including castle grounds access. Check current availability in booking section below.

Thames Path Autumn Walks

November delivers peak autumn colors along the Thames between Windsor and Maidenhead. Ancient oak and beech trees create golden canopies, best photographed in the brief afternoon light. Cool 10°C (50°F) temperatures perfect for 5-8km (3-5 mile) riverside walks without overheating. Morning mist adds atmospheric quality.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, but guided heritage walks typically cost £12-18 per person. Book guided tours 1 week ahead through local walking groups. Start by 2pm to finish before dark. Waterproof boots essential after rain days.

Windsor Great Park Deer Watching

Red deer rutting season peaks in November - stags are most active and visible during cool mornings around 8-10am. The 2,020-hectare (4,990-acre) park offers excellent wildlife photography opportunities. Fewer visitors mean deer are less skittish. Crisp air provides clearer views across the parkland.

Booking Tip: Park access is free but car parking costs £3.50 for 4 hours. Guided wildlife tours available through park rangers, typically £15-20 per person. Book ranger walks 2 weeks ahead. Binoculars recommended - rent from visitor centers for £8-12 daily.

Traditional Pub Experience

November is prime season for cozy pub culture - log fires, seasonal ales, and hearty British fare. Historic pubs like The Crooked House and Two Brewers offer authentic atmosphere during cool evenings. Local breweries release winter ales and warming spirits. Perfect complement to day's outdoor activities.

Booking Tip: No booking needed for most pub visits, but restaurant tables at popular spots fill 6-8pm. Traditional pub meals cost £12-22. Look for establishments with log fires and local ale selections. Sunday roasts especially popular - arrive by 1pm for best selection.

Royal Borough Museums and Heritage Sites

November's indoor weather perfect for exploring Windsor's museum collections and historic buildings. Museum of Windsor Life, Frogmore House (when open), and Windsor Guildhall offer fascinating royal history without weather concerns. Heating and smaller crowds enhance the intimate experience.

Booking Tip: Museum entry typically costs £8-15 adults. Frogmore House opens select dates only - check royal.uk for November availability. Heritage sites often offer combined tickets for £20-28. Book specialty tours 2-3 weeks ahead through official channels.

Christmas Market Browsing

Late November sees Windsor's Christmas markets begin operations with authentic British holiday atmosphere. Traditional crafts, mulled wine, and seasonal treats without the December crowds. Thames-side market stalls offer unique gifts and local artisan products. Evening markets particularly atmospheric under twinkling lights.

Booking Tip: Market entry typically free but food and drink costs £4-8 per item. Markets usually operate Thursday-Sunday late November. Mulled wine and hot chocolate perfect for 2°C (36°F) evening temperatures. Cash preferred at many stalls.

November Events & Festivals

Late November

Windsor Christmas Market Opening Weekend

Traditional British Christmas market launches with local artisans, seasonal foods, and authentic holiday atmosphere. Features mulled wine, mince pies, handcrafted gifts, and carol singers in historic town center setting.

November 11th

Remembrance Day Services

Solemn commemorative services at Windsor Castle and local war memorials. The Royal Family often attends Windsor services, creating unique opportunity to witness royal protocol and British ceremonial traditions.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots - essential for Thames Path and Great Park walks, especially after rain on muddy trails spanning 5-10km (3-6 miles)

Layered clothing system - temperatures range from 2°C to 10°C (36°F to 50°F), requiring adaptability from morning frost to afternoon warmth

Compact umbrella - November brings 10 rainy days with frequent light drizzle, but showers typically last 30-45 minutes

Warm hat and gloves - early morning deer watching and evening market visits require protection against 2°C (36°F) temperatures

Portable phone charger - limited daylight means heavy camera and navigation use drains batteries faster in cold weather

Cash in small denominations - Christmas market vendors and some heritage sites prefer cash payments, especially for £4-8 purchases

Quality rain jacket with hood - 65mm (2.6 inches) monthly rainfall requires reliable waterproofing for outdoor activities

Comfortable walking layers - wool or synthetic base layers dry faster than cotton during humid 70% conditions

Small backpack - essential for carrying layers, snacks, and rain gear during 3-5 hour castle and park explorations

Warm scarf - November winds along Thames can create significant wind chill during 2-3 hour riverside walks

Insider Knowledge

Windsor Castle's State Apartments are warmest between 11am-2pm when central heating peaks - plan your interior touring during these hours for maximum comfort

The Copper Horse statue in Great Park offers best autumn foliage views but requires 30-minute uphill walk - start early morning to capture mist and deer activity

Local pubs serve Sunday roasts until 4pm but best selections disappear by 2pm - arrive early or book ahead for traditional Yorkshire pudding and seasonal vegetables

Windsor Central Station connects directly to United Kingdom Paddington in 26 minutes - much faster than driving with M4 traffic, plus no parking fees saving £15-25 daily

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming summer opening hours - many attractions close by 4pm in November, requiring earlier starts and compressed itineraries than visitors expect

Wearing cotton clothing in 70% humidity - synthetic or wool materials stay comfortable when damp, while cotton becomes cold and clammy during frequent drizzle

Planning outdoor activities after 3pm - with sunset at 4:30pm, afternoon activities must be indoor or well-lit areas like town center shopping