Windsor Castle

The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and an official residence of the King. Visits include the lavish State Apartments, Queen Mary's Dolls' House and St George's Chapel, where many monarchs are buried, including Queen Elizabeth II. The Changing of the Guard takes place on several mornings a week.

The castle is closed on some days of the week and for royal events, and St George's Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays, so check the website and book ahead. Allow at least half a day.

Afterwards walk the 2.6-mile Long Walk through Windsor Great Park, or cross the bridge over the Thames to the village of Eton and its famous college. The town has plenty of old pubs, but don't expect a cheap pint.

Trains run from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside, or from Paddington via Slough to Windsor & Eton Central, in about an hour.