I was planning to go to Windsor as a day trip on Sept 17, but the president will be there for a state visit. I don’t want to be stuck in protests etc. Does anytime know the schedule or impact of this state visit on tourists visiting Windsor? Should I just skip Windsor?
I was thinking Bletchley Park might be a good alternative. Thoughts?
Other ideas?
EDIT - I think rain is in the forecast, so does that hamper Bletchley too? Other ideas on how I should spend the day?
I would definitely skip Windsor during the visit. Not so much because of protests but because of the level of security that will be in the town. I’m guessing there will be roads closed and police everywhere. Just not much fun. On a more positive note you might get to see a bit of spectacle with the carriage parade etc but I’m not sure it’s worth it
The Castle is closed, and there are various road closures in the town.-
A308 Osborne Road
A308 Frances Road
A308 King's Road Roundabout
A308 Albert Road
A322 King's Road from junction with Bolton Road
St Leonard's Road from Bolton Road roundabout
Additionally parts of the River Thames (the river itself) will be closed at short notice between Old Windsor Lock and Windsor and Eton footbridge, and a part of the Thames Path is also closed between Victoria Bridge and Albert Bridge.
However all events are happening privately within the Castle estate. These closures are all part of the general security operation.
No conventional protests are expected in Windsor, although there is a huge police operation including armed officers as a precaution. The police are hoping for the best but are prepared for the worst, should it happen.
Last night a large photo shopped picture of the President and Epstein was projected onto the castle, and public order arrests made as a result.
The town will be busy and there will be disruption due to the closures. Hopefully it will all be peaceful
If not interested in all of that then maybe Bletchley is a good alternative. On the other hand, as long as nothing happens, it could be a good day to see the town in full royal mode.
The forecast weather should also hopefully dampen the prospects of any protests
Tomorrow 18th the President will have moved on to Chequers and Windsor will be clear, although no doubt it will take a while to bring everything back to normal.
Given that Windsor Castle remains closed tomorrow (18th), as does the Thames Path, and the road in front of the Castle Bletchley may be an idea for tomorrow. The current forecast is very overcast in the morning, gradually clearing to sunshine.
St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle closes early on Saturday, so Friday looks to me to be the sweet day for Windsor this week- and currently good availability except the last time slot at 1530.
Thank you all. Bletchley Park was super.
I think Bletchley Park needs to be highlighted as an excellent day trip in Rick’s future books
glad you enjoyed it. And the weather here and in Milton Keynes / Bletchley hasn't been too bad. Warm, breezy, only a little damp in short bits... Good choice
