Now that September is already well underway, young people across the country will be tightening ties for the first time and making homework agendas for the coming academic year.
But the start of this school year is of particular importance: following in his father’s footsteps, today marks the start of Prince George’s career at the prestigious boarding school Eton College, located in the charming county of Berkshire.
Located on the banks of the River Thames, Eton is a historic town nearby London and Windsor, whose university (which dates back to 1440) boasts an impressive list of alumni including Prince Williamwriter George Orwell and James Bond creator Ian Fleming.
But apart from the school, which costs £21,891 a term (or ‘half’, in Eton parlance) to attend, there’s plenty to do in the small town and surrounding area.
The county itself is home to hotels steeped in history, independent pubs serving hearty, English cuisine and a variety of different attractions.
So as the young royal family settles into his new schoolwe look at some of the best places to visit in Eton and Berkshire.
What to do
Prince George arrived at Eton College today with his parents
The prestigious school dates back to 1440 and has a long list of impressive alumni, including writer George Orwell and twenty British Prime Ministers, including David Cameron and Boris Johnson.
To explore Eton and the wider area, why not try a river cruise along the Thames? Stops on this tour include Boveney Lock, Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House, Windsor Racecourse and The Brocas, a large riverside meadow
Eton’s main street features a rich mix of architecture, from medieval-style wooden houses and courtyards, elegant Georgian and Victorian shopfronts and Gothic sites, such as the Victorian Gothic Church of St. John the Evangelist.
The street starts at Windsor Bridge and stretches for over a mile, winding past the historic Eton College Chapel.
In addition to restaurants and coffee shops, the main street is lined with renowned tailor shops – where students like George can pick up their elaborate school clothes.
There are also a number of museums near the school, including the Natural History Museum, which opened in 1875 and is free to enter.
For those who want to admire the characteristic area from the water, river cruises along the Thames can be booked.
French Brothers offers a 40-minute cruise of Boveney Lock, Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House, Windsor Racecourse and The Brocas, a riverside meadow. Tickets for adults cost £11.90 online and for children £7.90.
Visitors looking for drama, live music and comedy can head to the Theater Royal Windsor. The Edwardian venue offers shows for all types of audiences, with a busy schedule to choose from.
For younger visitors in need of entertainment in and around the historic city, Legoland Windsor is just a short drive away.
With attractions such as the interactive water attraction ‘Hydra’s Challenge’ and the Lego ‘Ferrari Build and Race’ experience, this fun family favorite is an antidote to a day exploring Eton and Windsor’s extensive cultural offering.
Where to eat
The George describes itself as the most ‘iconic’ pub in Eton, dating back to around 1750
The Hare & Hounds, in Newbury, serves ‘elevated classics with global influences’
The George Inn dates back to around 1750 and describes itself as ‘the most iconic pub in Eton’. With views of the River Thames and Windsor Castle, it’s the perfect spot for home-cooked food and a pint.
The menu offers classics such as beer battered fish and chips for £19.50, and a ‘beef and storm stew’ for £17.
And for those keen to try breakfast, rooms in the 18th century inn are available from £120 in September.
In Newbury, about 45 minutes’ drive from Eton and located in the west of Berkshire, is the Hare & Hounds.
The award-winning establishment serves ‘elevated classics with global influences’ such as a mixed grill with West Country lamb for £26 and a chicken, gammon and leek pie for £23.95.
The restaurant is located in a boutique hotel, a 16th-century coaching inn that offers rooms from £110 in October for two guests.
Where to stay
The Monkey Island Hotel in Bray-on-Thames, on its own private island, is just one of many impressive places in Berkshire
The Great House in Sonning is a former coaching inn on the River Thames
The Hare & Hounds in west Berkshire serves ‘elevated classics with global influences’ and is another great spot for visitors to the city
There are plenty of impressive places to stay in Berkshire, including the Monkey Island Estate.
Located on a private island in the River Thames, guests can book a room at this luxurious spot from £225 per night for two in October.
With timeless furnishings and an intriguing history dating back centuries with monarchs, aristocrats and famous writers, it’s sure to be a unique evening away.
Alternatively, The Great House in Sonning, Berkshire is another option for visitors looking for a relaxing break.
Housed in a former Elizabethan coaching inn, the hotel offers a range of beautifully designed rooms and suites. Dogs are welcome with their owners.
A room for two can be booked in October from just £109 per night.
