Visitor updates

We are preparing the Totem Pole for restoration work which has been delayed as a result of the pandemic.

Working with Canadian specialist restorers and direct descendants of Chief Mungo Martin, the original carver, the Totem Pole will be lowered later this year before a lengthy period of drying, repair and restoration. Although still fundamentally sound, an exclusion zone has been placed around the pole to guarantee the safety of all.

This important landmark in the Great Park needs careful restoration so that it can be enjoyed by future generations in complete safety. The restoration work will follow the complex operation of lowering the Pole.

Crown Estate representatives were present in Vancouver in November 2018, when an identical pole - see pictures, carved by Chief Mungo Martin at the same time as the Windsor Pole, was lowered from its position outside the Vancouver Maritime Museum. The lessons learnt from this will allow us to safely lower the Windsor Pole, whilst at the same time ensuring that all necessary First Nation customs, are observed, as preserving heritage and tradition is as important as preserving the fabric of the pole.

Here are just some of the potential risks of entering the water:

• Hidden currents
• Underwater hazards
• Unexpected water temperature 

Windsor Great Park is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England, and is incredibly valuable for conservation. The Park is potentially vulnerable and uncontrolled fires pose a significant risk to the park, its wildlife, and the many visitors that enjoy this beautiful landscape.

All forms of barbecue and camp fire are prohibited.

The Queen Elizabeth Temperate House will be closed from 30 August 2021 for essential maintenance work. We will update our website as soon as it re-opens. 

Lawn areas of The Savill Garden will be closed over the winter where the ground is heavily wet underfoot. The closures also allow for lawns to rest after a busy year and repair before the spring. Several areas, including the winter borders, remain open to enjoy.