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Near London Guide

Eton: History, Attractions and Ambiance

Historic college streets, Thames walks and a refined companion to Windsor.

Eton sits across the Thames from Windsor. It is a small town with a famous school, a characterful high street and riverside views back towards Windsor Castle.

A town shaped by its college

Eton College was founded by Henry VI in 1440, and its historic buildings, including the chapel with its medieval wall paintings, dominate the town. The college runs guided tours and has museums at certain times of the year.

The High Street runs from the college to the footbridge over the Thames, lined with antique shops, galleries and restaurants. From the bridge, there are classic views of Windsor Castle. Nearby, Dorney Lake, used for rowing at the 2012 Olympic Games, is a pleasant place to walk.

What to see

  • Eton College – chapel and historic buildings on guided tours.
  • Eton High Street – antiques, galleries and independent shops.
  • Windsor Bridge – a pedestrian bridge with castle views.
  • Dorney Lake – the Olympic rowing venue.

Eating and atmosphere

Eton is a small, quiet town, especially outside term time. There are cafés and restaurants on the High Street, and Windsor, across the bridge, has many more.

A suggested half day

Walk the High Street from Windsor Bridge to the college, join a guided tour if one is running, and then cross back to Windsor for lunch and the castle.

Getting there

Windsor & Eton Riverside has trains to London Waterloo, and Windsor & Eton Central connects via Slough to Paddington and the Elizabeth line. The M4 and M25 are close by.

Getting there with Mason & Green

Heathrow is usually a short drive via the M4 or M25. For college pickups at the start or end of term, tell us the boarding house so the driver can meet you at the right place.

See our Heathrow Airport transfers and student transfers pages.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Eton College?

Yes, on guided tours at set times. Check the college's website for dates.

How close is Eton to Heathrow?

It is usually a short drive via the M4 or M25.

Do you provide school transfers for Eton?

Yes. We provide start- and end-of-term transfers, including airport journeys.

About the author: Sunil Thakore founded Mason & Green, a TfL-licensed London private hire operator, in 2011. The company is now owned and run by his sons, Neal and Dev Thakore. Sunil writes practical guidance based on the company’s day-to-day experience with airport, cruise-port, station, family and chauffeur journeys. View author profile

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