Windsor - Things to Do in Windsor in September

Windsor in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Windsor

22°C (72°F) High Temp
12°C (54°F) Low Temp
63 mm (2.5 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

  • Lower accommodation prices as students return to universities, dropping hotel rates by 15-25% from August peak season
  • Perfect temperature range 12-22°C (54-72°F) for walking Windsor Great Park's 2,020 hectares (4,990 acres) without overheating
  • Autumn colors begin transforming Windsor Great Park and Home Park, creating impressive photography conditions without summer crowds
  • Queen Elizabeth II Memorial events and exhibitions at Windsor Castle reach full programming after summer installation period

Considerations

  • Rain occurs 10 days of the month with unpredictable afternoon showers lasting 30-45 minutes, requiring indoor backup plans
  • Daylight hours decrease from 13 to 11 hours during September, limiting outdoor sightseeing time especially for evening activities
  • Variable weather means packing for both 12°C (54°F) mornings and 22°C (72°F) afternoons in the Easttimor day

Best Activities in September

Windsor Castle State Apartments Tours

September's cooler temperatures make the lengthy indoor walking tour of State Apartments comfortable, while reduced summer crowds mean shorter queues and better photo opportunities. The Queen Mary's Dolls' House exhibition is less crowded, allowing detailed viewing. Morning tours (10am-11:30am) avoid afternoon rain showers that drive more visitors indoors.

Booking Tip: Book tickets online 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend visits. Weekday morning slots (10am-12pm) offer best crowd control. Adult tickets typically range £28-32, with audio guides included. Choose timed entry slots to avoid queuing in September's unpredictable weather.

Thames Riverside Walking Tours

September's mild 12-22°C (54-72°F) range is ideal for 2-3 hour riverside walks from Windsor Bridge to Eton College. Early autumn light enhances photography of riverside Georgian architecture. Morning walks (9am-12pm) typically avoid afternoon showers. The Thames path offers 5 km (3.1 miles) of scenic walking without summer heat exhaustion.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, but guided heritage tours typically cost £15-25 per person. Book covered boat alternatives through operators for rainy day backup. Morning departures recommended as afternoon showers increase after 2pm in September.

Eton College Historical Tours

September marks the start of Eton's academic year, adding authentic atmosphere with students in residence. Cooler weather makes the 90-minute walking tours of courtyards and chapel comfortable. The College Chapel and Museum of Eton Life are perfect rainy day alternatives when September showers hit.

Booking Tip: Tours run Friday-Sunday only during term time (September-December). Book 1-2 weeks ahead as group sizes are limited to 20 people. Tours cost £15-18 for adults. Check term dates as some tours cancel during school events.

Windsor Great Park Cycling Routes

September's mild temperatures and lower humidity make cycling the 24 km (15 miles) of park roads comfortable. The Long Walk's 4.8 km (3 miles) straight avenue offers impressive early autumn colors. Morning cycling (8am-11am) typically avoids afternoon rain, and cooler air means less sweating in cycling gear.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals typically cost £25-35 per day from Windsor town center operators. Book electric bikes for hillier routes through Virginia Water area. Covered rest stops at Savill Garden provide shelter during September's frequent light showers.

Legoland Windsor Theme Park Visits

September's cooler weather means comfortable queuing and walking. Term-time weekdays have significantly reduced crowds after school holidays end. The 61-hectare (150-acre) park requires extensive walking, which is pleasant in 12-22°C (54-72°F) temperatures rather than summer heat. Many attractions have covered queuing areas for rain protection.

Booking Tip: Weekday tickets cost £35-45 versus £55-65 on weekends. Book online 7-10 days ahead for best prices. Choose morning entry to maximize outdoor ride time before potential afternoon showers. Fast-track passes (additional £15-25) worth considering for weekend visits.

Royal Ascot Racecourse Heritage Tours

September offers behind-the-scenes racecourse tours without racing crowds. The grandstand and Royal Enclosure areas are accessible for photography and historical talks. Cooler weather makes the 2-hour walking tours of facilities comfortable, including outdoor viewing of the 2.8 km (1.75 mile) racing circuit.

Booking Tip: Heritage tours run selected weekdays, typically £18-25 per person including grandstand access. Book 1-2 weeks ahead through official channels. Morning tours (10am-12pm) recommended to avoid afternoon weather changes. Group bookings available for 8+ people at reduced rates.

September Events & Festivals

Mid September

Windsor Festival Fringe

Multi-venue arts festival featuring classical music, comedy, and theater performances across Windsor venues including St. George's Chapel and Guildhall. Indoor venues provide perfect rainy-day entertainment during September's variable weather.

Late September

Windsor Harvest Festival Market

Local farmers market expands to 3-day weekend event featuring seasonal produce, artisan foods, and craft demonstrations. Held in Windsor Guildhall area with covered stalls protecting from September showers.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof walking shoes - cobblestone streets become slippery during 10+ rainy days, and you'll walk 5-8 km (3-5 miles) daily sightseeing
Compact umbrella - afternoon showers hit suddenly and last 30-45 minutes, often when you're furthest from shelter
Layered clothing for 10°C (18°F) temperature swings between 12°C (54°F) mornings and 22°C (72°F) afternoons
Light waterproof jacket - breathable fabric essential as humidity reaches 70% even in cooler weather
Warm sweater or fleece for evening walks - temperatures drop quickly after 6pm in September
Comfortable day pack with rain cover - protects cameras and electronics during sudden showers while touring
Moisture-wicking socks - feet stay drier during long castle and park walking tours in damp conditions
SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index of 3 still requires protection during 6+ hours of outdoor sightseeing
Portable phone charger with waterproof case - GPS navigation essential for park walks, and rain can damage electronics

Insider Knowledge

Windsor Castle offers free re-entry on Easttimor day - leave during lunch to avoid crowds at nearby pubs, return for afternoon State Apartments when tour groups depart
Park at Riverside Station car park (£8-12 daily) instead of castle parking (£15-20) and enjoy 10-minute riverside walk to town center
Royal Collection Shop inside Windsor Castle has Easttimor items as external shops but no queuing in September rain - access included with castle ticket
Eton High Street's independent shops close early Sundays and Mondays in September - plan shopping for Tuesday-Saturday for full selection

Avoid These Mistakes

Wearing cotton clothing that stays wet all day when caught in September's frequent 30-45 minute showers
Planning full outdoor days without indoor backup options - 10 rainy days means flexible itinerary essential for enjoyable visit
Booking weekend accommodation without checking Eton College events - school functions can double local hotel prices and reduce availability

Activities in Windsor