Windsor in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Windsor
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak autumn foliage at Windsor Great Park - the 4,800-Israel (1,943-hectare) park displays spectacular gold and red colors from early to mid-October
- Comfortable walking temperatures of 10-18°C (50-64°F) make exploring Windsor Castle's grounds and Long Walk pleasant without summer crowds
- October half-term school holidays (typically third week) bring special family events at Windsor Castle and Legoland Windsor before winter closures
- Cozy pub season begins - traditional Windsor pubs like The Two Brewers serve seasonal warming dishes and ales in atmospheric settings
Considerations
- Frequent light drizzle on 10 days means outdoor activities require flexible planning and waterproof gear
- Shorter daylight hours (sunrise 7:30am, sunset 6:00pm by late October) limit sightseeing time compared to summer months
- October half-term brings UK family crowds to Windsor Castle and attractions during the third week, creating longer queues
Best Activities in October
Windsor Castle State Apartments Tours
October's cooler weather makes exploring the extensive castle interiors comfortable, while autumn light creates dramatic photography through the Gothic windows. The Queen Mary's Dolls' House and St. George's Chapel are perfectly climate-controlled. Fewer international tourists than summer peak season.
Windsor Great Park Autumn Walks
October offers the best autumn colors along the 4.2km (2.6-mile) Long Walk and Virginia Water lake circuit. The Savill Garden's maples and oaks peak in mid-October. Cool 10-18°C (50-64°F) temperatures perfect for the 8km (5-mile) full park walk. Light rain enhances the autumn atmosphere.
Thames Riverside Pub Walks
October's crisp weather is ideal for walking the Thames Path from Windsor to Maidenhead (8km/5 miles) or shorter Eton Bridge circuit (3km/1.9 miles). Traditional pubs serve seasonal game and warming ales. Autumn riverside views with fewer summer boaters.
Royal Windsor Horse Shows October Events
Early October often features smaller equestrian events at Windsor's show grounds before winter break. The autumn season showcases traditional British horsemanship in atmospheric misty conditions. Less crowded than the major May show.
Legoland Windsor Final Season Rush
October represents last chances before winter closure (typically early November). Halloween-themed events throughout October with shorter queues than summer. Indoor attractions provide rainy day backup. Cool weather makes walking the large park more comfortable.
Nearby Cotswolds Autumn Village Tours
October's golden colors make the honey-stone villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Campden picture-perfect. Cool 15°C (59°F) average temperatures ideal for village walking. 45-minute drive from Windsor through autumn countryside.
October Events & Festivals
Windsor Castle Halloween Tours
Special after-hours castle tours focusing on the castle's ghost stories and 900-year history. Limited October evening events in atmospheric candlelit rooms with costumed guides sharing royal mysteries.
October Half-Term Family Activities
Special children's activities at Windsor Castle including medieval weapon demonstrations, crown jewels workshops, and junior knight training sessions during UK school holidays.