Discover Slough | A Visitor's Introduction to Slough, Berkshire

Why is Slough Worth a Visit?

Slough is worth visiting for its vibrant multicultural community, modern developments, and proximity to world-class attractions. Its central location near London Heathrow Airport makes it a popular destination for business travellers, but there’s more to discover beyond its industrial façade. Slough offers easy access to beautiful parks, shopping, and dining, as well as iconic sites like Windsor Castle and Legoland Windsor. The town’s history, dating back to the Domesday Book, and its evolution as a modern business hub make it an interesting destination for both work and play.

Slough Highlights: Things to See and Do in Slough

1. Windsor Castle
Just a short drive or bus ride from Slough, Windsor Castle is one of the most famous royal residences in the world. As the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been a home to British monarchs for over 900 years. Visitors can explore the opulent State Apartments, view the magnificent St George’s Chapel (where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married), and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Windsor itself is a charming town, offering lovely shops, cafés, and boat trips along the River Thames.

2. Black Park Country Park
If you’re looking for green space and outdoor activities, Black Park Country Park is a beautiful 530-acre park located just a few miles from Slough. The park is known for its peaceful lake, woodland walking trails, and extensive cycling paths. It’s also a popular filming location, with scenes from movies like Harry Potter and James Bond filmed here. Visitors can enjoy picnics by the lake, hire bikes to explore the woods, or tackle the Go Ape treetop adventure for a fun day out with the family.

3. Slough Museum
For a deeper dive into the town’s history, Slough Museum offers fascinating insights into the town’s development, from its early days as a small settlement to its role as a hub for industry and technology. The museum’s exhibits include artefacts, photographs, and interactive displays that explore Slough’s past, including its famous Trading Estate—the largest industrial estate in Europe. The museum also covers Slough’s cultural diversity, showcasing the stories of its many communities.

4. Herschel Park
Herschel Park is a hidden gem in the heart of Slough, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. Originally designed in the Victorian era, the park has recently been restored to its former glory, featuring beautiful gardens, ponds, and walking paths. It’s named after the astronomer Sir William Herschel, who discovered Uranus and lived in Slough. The park is a great spot for a relaxing stroll, a picnic, or simply enjoying nature within the town.

5. The Curve
The Curve is Slough’s striking cultural and community hub, home to the Slough Library, a performance space, a café, and a variety of community events. This modern building offers something for everyone, from family-friendly activities and storytelling sessions to art exhibitions and live performances. The Curve is a great place to spend time, particularly if you’re interested in local arts and culture. The contemporary design of the building itself is also worth admiring.

6. Eton College
Just across the River Thames from Slough lies the historic town of Eton, home to the world-renowned Eton College, one of Britain’s most prestigious schools. Founded in 1440 by King Henry VI, Eton College has educated some of the UK’s most prominent figures, including prime ministers, royalty, and literary giants. Visitors can explore the charming town of Eton, with its independent shops and cafés, and take a guided tour of the school’s historic buildings, including the Chapel and Cloisters. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the world of elite British education.

7. Legoland Windsor Resort
A family favourite, Legoland Windsor is just a short drive from Slough and offers a fun-filled day out for visitors of all ages. The theme park is designed around the popular Lego building blocks and features over 50 interactive rides, shows, and attractions. From roller coasters and water rides to model villages and live performances, Legoland is the perfect destination for families. It also offers themed areas like Pirate Shores and Knight’s Kingdom, where younger visitors can let their imaginations run wild.

8. Stoke Poges Memorial Gardens
For a peaceful and reflective outing, the Stoke Poges Memorial Gardens, located just outside Slough, are beautifully landscaped and offer a serene environment for quiet contemplation. The gardens were designed as a tribute to those who have passed, with tranquil ponds, statues, and shaded walkways. It’s also near Stoke Poges Church, where the poet Thomas Gray is buried, and where he is said to have penned his famous poem "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard."

9. Shopping at Queensmere Observatory
For those looking to shop, the Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre in the heart of Slough offers a range of high-street brands, independent retailers, and dining options. The centre is home to well-known stores like H&M, Next, and TK Maxx, and provides a convenient shopping experience for both locals and visitors. There are also regular markets and pop-up stalls, offering a variety of products and local goods.

10. Langley Park
Located just outside of Slough, Langley Park is a beautiful historic parkland with formal gardens, ancient woodlands, and stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, and its picturesque walking routes make it a perfect spot for nature lovers. One of the park’s highlights is the Temple Gardens, known for its seasonal blooms and ornamental features. The park also offers picnic areas and a café, making it a great day out for families and walkers.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:
Slough is conveniently located just off the M4 motorway, making it easy to reach by car from London, Reading, and other parts of the South East. If travelling by train, Slough Station is on the Great Western Railway line, with regular services to and from London Paddington—a journey that takes just 20 minutes. London Heathrow Airport is only a 15-minute drive from Slough, making the town easily accessible for international visitors.

Parking:
Slough has plenty of parking options, with several multi-storey car parks located in the town centre. The Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre offers parking for visitors to the shops, and Herschel Car Park is conveniently located for those visiting The Curve or Herschel Park. For those heading to nearby attractions like Windsor Castle or Legoland, there are dedicated car parks with ample space, although it’s worth arriving early during peak tourist seasons.

Dining:
Slough’s multicultural community means there’s a fantastic variety of dining options, from traditional British pubs to authentic Indian, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean cuisine. Kashmiri Karahi is a local favourite for its delicious curries and traditional Pakistani dishes, while Aromat offers a fusion of European and Asian flavours. The Moon and Spoon, part of the Wetherspoon chain, is a popular spot for affordable pub food and drinks. For a more refined dining experience, The Pinewood Hotel in nearby Wexham offers a contemporary menu using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Shopping:
Slough’s main shopping destination is the Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre, where you’ll find a mix of high-street retailers, independent shops, and cafés. For those looking for unique or local goods, Slough hosts a weekly market where you can browse stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and crafts. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, Windsor and Eton offer boutique stores and high-end brands just a short drive away.

When to Visit:
Slough is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months (April to September), when the parks and gardens are in full bloom and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. If you’re planning to visit Windsor Castle or Legoland, these attractions are busiest during school holidays and summer weekends, so visiting midweek or in the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) is a good way to avoid crowds.

Local Events:
Slough has a growing cultural scene, with a variety of events taking place throughout the year. The Slough Mela, an annual celebration of the town’s South Asian community, features music, dance, and food stalls and draws crowds from across the region. The town also hosts Slough Festival, which includes live performances, food stalls, and family-friendly activities. In nearby Windsor, the Royal Windsor Horse Show and Windsor Festival are major events on the calendar, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond.

Exploring Beyond Slough:
Slough’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of the UK’s most iconic attractions. Windsor is just a 10-minute drive away, where you can visit Windsor Castle, explore the charming town, or take a boat trip along the Thames. For those with children, Legoland Windsor is a must-visit, offering a fun day out for the whole family. London, with its world-class museums, theatres, and landmarks, is just a 20-minute train ride from Slough, making it easy to enjoy the capital’s attractions. Eton and Ascot are also nearby, offering historic sites and sporting events like Royal Ascot.