A Walk Around Virginia Water at Windsor Great Park
We visited Virginia Water Lake at Windsor Great Park a couple of years ago. I took lots of pictures and we had a great time! Let me tell you more about our trip to Virginia Water Lake.
The first thing that caught our attention as we walked through the trees was the cascade. Its sparkling beauty left us in awe and I couldn’t help but think how stunning it looked.
The history behind the cascade is fascinating. Construction began in 1752 under the guidance of William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland, with architect Henry Flitcroft leading the design. Unfortunately, just 16 years later, a massive storm destroyed the pondhead and cascade, draining the lake completely. However, the resilience of those times shines through: under the direction of George III, reconstruction began, and the lake was expanded to become the serene masterpiece we see today.
A Walk Around Virginia Water at Windsor Great Park
As we continued our walk, we came across the Leptis Magna ruins, an evocative sight from an ancient world, while our son entertained himself playing in the dust nearby. Crossing the bridge brought us to The Valley Gardens, where an explosion of colors surrounded us. The array of flowers in bloom made it feel like stepping into a living painting.
These gardens hold a unique history as well. After World War II, gardeners from across the country came together to donate shrubs to help maintain Windsor Great Park. Today, azaleas and rhododendrons bloom gloriously in May, filling the air with the fragrance of spring.
Toward the end of our walk, we came across a towering totem pole—a striking sight to behold. Standing 100 feet tall and weighing 12 tons, this pole was a gift from the government of British Columbia to Queen Elizabeth II in 1958 to mark the province’s centenary.
Our walk around Virginia Water Lake lasted 2 hours and 45 minutes—a long but wonderful journey. Here are some tips to make your visit as enjoyable as ours (and even better):
Tips for visiting Virginia Water Lake:
- Bring snacks and water
- If you have a toddler, take a stroller. Trust me, carrying a little one for nearly three hours can be exhausting
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a raincoat. The weather can be unpredictable and comfort matters on long walks
- Carry some cash. Whether for parking or a quick coffee, cash come in handy
We learned some of these lessons the hard way! Our trip was spontaneous, and I initially thought it would be a short 40-minute stroll. Surprise! 😀 By the time we were halfway through, we were thirsty, it started to rain and I regretted wearing boots instead of sneakers. Thankfully, my son was prepared with his raincoat and boots, so he was perfectly fine.
FAQs about Virginia Water Lake:
How long does it take to walk around the lake?
It took us 2 hours and 45 minutes, including stops for playing and exploring.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes! There are signs indicating areas where dogs need to be kept on a lead.
Can we bring bicycles?
Yes, cycling is allowed.
Are there shops along the lake?
There’s a small shop at the entrance/exit and, as of seven years ago, a van selling coffee, juice, and snacks.
If you’re looking for a day out with family or friends, I highly recommend adding Virginia Water Lake to your list. Its beauty, history and charm make it a perfect escape into nature.
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Love,
Alexandra
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