In a work like this, the object of which is general information, more than particular description, a minute detail cannot be entered into, on a subject sufficient to form a work in itself; replete with every variety of nature and art. The importance of Windsor Castle, as a fortress, save in appearance, is entirely superseded, the remaining appurtenances of which appear to be retained merely as objects of ornament. The most remarkable part of the building is The Keep, or Round Tower, built on a lofty artificial mount, in the centre of the castle. The beauty and variety of the views from the summit of this building, extending over a boundless landscape, enriched with the most luxuriant and highly cultivated scenery, are almost indescribable.
“Heavens! what a goodly prospect spreads around,
“Of hills, and dales, and woods, and lawns, and spires,
“And glittering towns, and gilded streams, till all
“The stretching landscape into smoke decays!”
Thomson.
On a board placed near the summit of the tower, the names of the following counties, which are from thence seen, are inscribed: Middlesex, Essex, Herts, Bucks, Berks, Oxford, Wilts, Hants, Surrey, Sussex, Kent, and Bedford. The dome of St. Paul’s is also plainly distinguishable on a clear day.
The state apartments are magnificent, and fitted up in a superb style of elegance. The furniture is rich; many of the ceilings are finely painted; and a great number of pictures, by the most eminent masters, adorn the different chambers, among which are the celebrated Cartoons of Raphael.
The little park occupies the north and east sides, under the terrace of the castle. It is about four miles in circumference: its grounds are composed of a pleasing inequality, diversified by groupes of stately trees, and other woody scenery, extending to the village of Datchet, and declining towards the Thames.
Windsor Park, [71], denominated Great, to distinguish it from the park contiguous to the Castle. This park is about fourteen miles in circumference, and since its reversion to His Majesty (on the death of the late Duke of Cumberland), has undergone alterations which render it at once a scene of beauty and utility, 1400 acres being appropriated to the purposes of experimental farming; and the remaining 2400 acres, which together constitute the area of the whole, is laid out in the most judicious manner possible, well stocked with deer, and comprising every other requisite necessary to render it worthy of its royal possessor. Towards the southern extremity of the park is a beautiful and extensive piece of water, over which is an elegant stone bridge, which, together with the water, considerably enlivens and adds dignity to the whole.
The royal forest, making a circuit of about 56 miles, abounds with deer, and every other species of game, and is possessed of every attraction for the sports of the field, which, with the manly exercises of the chase, has been the favourite amusements of many successive Kings of England.
Winkton House, [94].
Winterton, Earl of, [38]. (see [Shillinglee Park])