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 and 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 un-named
princess. The ladies remained at the inn for some time whilst the King
and 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 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, still exudes the
tranquil confidence of those halcyon days. To your good fortune our
hand-pulled fine ales and wines are just as enticing today as they were
in those pre First World War times when the British Empire covered much
of the world.
We still sell the finest
bodied ales but we like to think that our food has developed from the
days when the two disreputable guides of Windsor Park were employed by
the innkeeper. Now our chalkboards boast a whole host of house
specialities – all served in belt-loosening portions. Come and enjoy
them for yourself.
