Discover the Venus Garden at Windsor Castle: The Royal Garden Everyone Is Talking About
When most visitors think of Windsor Castle, they picture grand State Apartments, the iconic Round Tower and the magnificent St George’s Chapel. However, tucked away beneath the Castle’s East Terrace lies one of Windsor’s newest attractions – the beautiful Venus Garden which is open to visitors between 16th July and 13th September 2026.
Opened as part of a major restoration and redesign project championed by His Majesty King Charles III, the Venus Garden combines royal history, stunning planting and a fascinating connection to the night sky, creating a truly unique experience for visitors to Windsor.
What Is the Venus Garden?
The Venus Garden is a newly reimagined section of Windsor Castle’s historic East Terrace Garden. While the area has been enjoyed by monarchs for centuries, the latest transformation has created a spectacular landscape inspired by the orbit of the planet Venus.
The garden’s design is based on the famous “Rose of Venus” pattern – a geometric shape created by the planet’s movement across the sky over an eight-year cycle. This celestial inspiration is reflected in the layout of the paths, planting beds and carefully shaped hedges, creating a garden that is both beautiful and meaningful.
A Garden Steeped in History
Although the Venus Garden feels refreshingly modern, its story stretches back more than 350 years.
The site was originally used as bowling greens during the reign of King Charles II before being transformed into a formal terrace garden by King George IV in the 1820s. Over the centuries, it has evolved alongside Windsor Castle itself, with each monarch leaving their own mark on the landscape.
During the Second World War, the gardens even played a role in Britain’s war effort. The young Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret reportedly helped grow vegetables here as part of the famous “Dig for Victory” campaign.
Today, visitors can enjoy a garden that celebrates both its rich heritage and its exciting future.
What Will You See?
The Venus Garden has been designed to provide interest throughout the year. Visitors can expect to discover:
- Colourful perennial planting schemes
- Wildflower meadows that support local wildlife
- Beautifully clipped yew topiary
- Historic sculptures from the Royal Collection
- Seasonal displays featuring thousands of bulbs
- Stunning views of Windsor Castle’s East Terrace
The result is a peaceful and elegant space that feels surprisingly secluded despite being at the heart of one of Britain’s most visited attractions.
Why Visit the Venus Garden?
One of the greatest pleasures of visiting Windsor is discovering the hidden corners that many visitors overlook. The Venus Garden offers exactly that opportunity.
While the Castle’s State Apartments showcase royal grandeur, the garden provides a more intimate glimpse into the royal family’s long-standing connection with nature and horticulture. It also reflects King Charles III’s passion for sustainability, biodiversity and thoughtful landscape design.
Whether you’re a keen gardener, a history enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil spot during your visit to Windsor, the Venus Garden is a wonderful addition to any Castle itinerary.
Where to Stay When Visiting Windsor Castle
If you’re planning a visit to Windsor Castle and the Venus Garden, choosing the right place to stay can make your trip even more memorable.
Located just a short walk from Windsor Castle, The Christopher Hotel offers a warm and welcoming base from which to explore the town’s royal attractions. Combining friendly charm with modern comforts, the hotel is perfectly positioned for guests wishing to discover Windsor Castle, stroll through Windsor Great Park, browse the independent shops of Windsor and Eton, or enjoy an evening meal after a day of sightseeing.
Guests can leave the car behind and enjoy easy access to the Castle, the Long Walk and the town centre, making The Christopher Hotel an ideal choice for a relaxed Windsor getaway.
