Windsor Castle’s East Terrace Garden Opens to Visitors for the First Time in Decades
There's a private area in one of Queen Elizabeth II’s official residences that visitors can now explore: Windsor Castle's East Terrace Garden is currently open to the public for the first time in 40 years.
The spacious garden features domes of yew and 3,500 rose bushes planted in a pattern around a bronze lotus fountain, according to the Royal Collection Trust, which oversees the public opening of the Queen's official residences. With the backdrop of Windsor Castle's east facade as well as the surrounding Windsor parkland, the garden offers gorgeous views in every direction. There are also terraces across the surrounding area where visitors can enjoy a slightly elevated sight of the garden.
Created in the 1820s for George IV, the garden originally featured imported plants (including 34 orange trees!) and statues, some of which remain in the garden today. Over the centuries, the garden has undergone changes and has been the setting for various occasions. In the 19th century, a band played from the garden during New Year’s morning. In the early 20th century, King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra held large garden parties there each summer.
The garden has also been the backdrop for official portraits of the Royal Family, including The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh. So visitors can take selfies where Her Majesty had a portrait taken by Annie Leibovitz in 2016.
During the weekends of August and September, visitors with tickets to the Windsor Castle will have access to the historic East Terrace Garden. Can't make the trip to the royal residence? Virtually tour these gorgeous gardens around the world.
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