The Prestigious Order of the Garter: A Storied Tradition at Windsor Castle

On November 20, 1992, Windsor Castle, one of the most iconic and historically significant residences of the British monarchy, was engulfed in flames. The fire caused extensive damage, destroying numerous historic rooms and priceless artifacts. This article delves into the events of the Windsor Castle fire, the impact it had, and the extraordinary restoration that followed.

The Origins of the Order of the Garter

The Order of the Garter was established by King Edward III in 1348, inspired by the legendary tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. According to popular legend, the order was founded after a dance incident involving the Countess of Salisbury, whose garter fell to the floor. King Edward picked it up and declared, "Honi soit qui mal y pense," meaning "Shame on him who thinks evil of it." This phrase became the order's motto, symbolizing chivalry and noble intent.

Structure and Membership

The Order of the Garter is limited to the Sovereign, the Prince of Wales, and 24 Companion Knights. Additionally, it includes supernumerary members such as foreign monarchs and other distinguished individuals. Membership is considered one of the highest honors, bestowed by the Sovereign to recognize outstanding contributions to public service, the arts, sciences, and other fields.

Regalia and Symbols

Members of the Order of the Garter are distinguished by their unique regalia. The most notable is the garter itself, a dark blue velvet band worn on the left leg just below the knee. The garter is inscribed with the order's motto in gold letters. Other elements of the regalia include the star, the collar, and the Great George, a medallion depicting Saint George slaying the dragon. These symbols reflect the order's deep-rooted connections to medieval chivalry and the legend of Saint George.

St. George's Chapel: The Spiritual Home

St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle serves as the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter. This stunning Gothic chapel, constructed in the late 14th century, is renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance. It is here that the annual Garter Day service takes place, an event marked by great pomp and ceremony. The chapel houses the banners of the Knights of the Garter, adding to its regal and solemn atmosphere.

St. George's Chapel

Step into the spiritual grandeur of St. George's Chapel, an awe-inspiring Gothic masterpiece within the historic Windsor...

The State Rooms

The staterooms at Windsor Castle are a series of lavishly decorated rooms that were designed to impress and entertain...

The Order of the Garter - FAQs

The Order of the Garter is the oldest and most senior order of chivalry in Britain, established by King Edward III in 1348 to honor those who have made significant contributions to the nation.

Membership is limited to the Sovereign, the Prince of Wales, and 24 Companion Knights, along with supernumerary members such as foreign monarchs and distinguished individuals.

St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, where the annual Garter Day service and other significant ceremonies are held.

Garter Day, celebrated in June, features a grand procession, a service in St. George's Chapel, and the installation of new Knights, followed by a luncheon hosted by the Sovereign.

The garter, a dark blue velvet band worn by members, symbolizes honor and chivalry, and it is inscribed with the orders motto, "Honi soit qui mal y pense."

Travel to Windsor

Visiting Windsor Castle by Train, Bus or Car?
Information below. View Opening Times and Closures

Visit by Train

Windsor is accessible from both Waterloo and Paddington stations.

Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station depart half hourly and hourly on Sundays.

Paddington to Windsor Central depart every 10 to 15 minutes changing once at Slough.

Visit By Bus

National Express: Operates direct coach services from London to Windsor. The journey typically takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

The Green Line 702 bus service: Runs between London Victoria and Windsor, stopping at various points along the way. This is a convenient and scenic route, taking approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Visit By Car

Windsor is accessible via the M3, M4, M25 and M40 Drive time from London is 40 minutes.

Consider long stay parking as a 20-minute walk saves 30% of normal short stay fees.

Park and Ride services are located at Legoland Windsor (free parking) or Windsor Home Park (pay and display).

How much does it cost to visit Windsor Castle?

It is best to book in advance as there is a reduction in price if you book in advance compared to paying on the day. Children under 5 enter for free.

	In advance	On the day
Adult	£28	£30
Young Adult (18-24)	£18	£19.50
Child (5-17)	£15.50	£16.50
Disabled	£15.50	£16.50

Can I get Refreshments in the castle?

Yes, you can get refreshments at Windsor Castle. The Undercroft Café, located in the castle's medieval Undercroft, offers visitors the chance to relax with a refreshing drink or a bite to eat. It is important to note that consuming food and beverages is strictly prohibited inside the State Apartments or St George's Chapel. Additionally, the castle has a gift shop that offers a selection of snacks and beverages for visitors to enjoy on-the-go.

Is Windsor Castle is accessible?

Windsor Castle welcomes all visitors with accessibility in mind. Concessionary rates are offered to individuals with disabilities, and a complimentary admission is granted to their accompanying companion. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the splendor of Windsor Castle without any barriers.

Where can i park my car?

There is no onsite paeking at windsor castle however the town of windsor has several pay and display car parks close by.
River St car park (SL4 1QT), Alma road car park (SL4 3HY) and Alexandra car park (SL4 3HY) are all within walking distance of windsor castle.
There is also a park and ride located at Romney Lock (SL4 6HX)

What time is the changing of the guard?

The Guards march from Victoria barracks in windsor and into the castle via Sheet street and then High street.
They usually arrive in the castle just before 11:00am.
If you want to see the full ceremony you will need to be inside the castle.
The times can be subject to change so please check the household divisions website for up to date information and to see which regiment will be on duty.

The Order of the Garter