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Wheatsheaf Hotel

Virginia Water

The Wheatsheaf dates back to the second half of the 18th Century. Ideally situated in a truly picturesque setting overlooking the lake, it exudes character and charm. In 1768, the first Virginia Water, constructed by William Duke of Cumberland, burst its dam and flooded the neighbourhood. In the ensuing repair and rebuilding work, The Wheatsheaf was constructed on the edge of Windsor Great Park. George III began spending more time at Windsor and decided to extend and improve the Lake but The Wheatsheaf stood in the way of his plans. The Crown tried to buy the Inn but the owner, a natural businessman, kept raising the price and happily the Inn survived.

In June 1801 The Wheatsheaf received a visit from George III, Queen Charlotte, Prince Adolphus and an unnamed Princess. The ladies remained at the Inn for some time whilst the King and his son visited Windsor Great Park to inspect the work being carried out at the “Pond Head”. With the work complete, the King’s third son William IV opened Windsor Great Park to the public in the 1830’s and the fortunes of the Inn increased as tourists came to admire the Lake. There was trouble in 1851 however, when it was found that the Innkeeper was charging the public for going through the gate into Windsor Park and employing two disreputable characters as guides.

In 1862 The Wheatsheaf was enlarged, for the coming of the railways meant even more custom. In the late Victorian and Edwardian eras The Wheatsheaf flourished as never before. The British Empire was at its height and The Wheatsheaf even today exudes the tranquil confidence of those halcyon days.

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