Windsor Bridge

The Thames crossing at Windsor is one of England's most recognisable bridges, and standing on it feels genuinely special - you're looking at nearly 900 years of history spanning the river. Built in stone in the 12th century and substantially rebuilt in the 1820s, it's the sort of place that rewards a proper wander rather than a quick photo stop.

Walking across, you get Windsor Castle rising up on the northern bank, which is the real draw for most visitors. History enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering - the current ironwork replacement of the medieval arches shows how these structures evolved. The views from the centre of the span are worth lingering for, especially if you time it right and the light catches the water nicely.

It's free to cross, obviously, and takes five minutes if you're rushing or twenty if you actually look around. Families with kids won't find much here beyond the views, so don't expect it to be a destination in itself - it's a transit point that happens to be interesting. The real merit comes from combining it with a visit to the castle or the town's high street, both of which are immediately adjacent.

If you're staying at one of the caravan parks nearby - Queens Acre is your closest option at just over three miles - this makes an easy afternoon stroll. Go when the riverside isn't heaving with tourists, ideally early morning or late afternoon. The bridge itself remains functional and busy with traffic, so that's worth knowing before you head there expecting tranquility.