
Free visitor parking at the Cavalry Exercise Ground โ perfect for Windsor Great Park walks, deer spotting & picnic outings from SL4 2BD.
๐ Type: Free Public Surface Car Park
๐๏ธ Jurisdiction: Windsor Great Park Authority
๐ Open: 07:00 โ 19:00 (or dusk, whichever is earlier)
๐ Rating: 4.5 / 5 (visitor feedback)
๐ฐ Pricing & Permits
Cost: Free for all visitors
Permits: None required
Enforcement: Gates lock at closing timeโovernight parking is prohibited
๐ Capacity & Physical Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Bays | Approximately 30 unmarked gravel bays |
| Surface | Compacted gravel (may rut or puddle after heavy rain) |
| Lighting | Noneโdaylight use only |
| Security | Patrols by park rangers; no CCTV |
| Height Limit | None |
โฟ Accessibility
Blue Badge: No designated bays; badge holders may park free but should choose level spaces near the entrance.
Routes: Level path from car park into the parkโs waymarked trails; gentle gradients suited for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Drop-Off: Informal layby at the car park entrance for quick unload.
๐ EV Infrastructure
On-Site Charging: None
Nearest Options:
Virginia Water Car Park (SL5 7SB): Rapid chargers at Rangerโs Gate (5 min drive)
Rangerโs Gate Visitor Car Park (SL4 2LD): Pod Point units (7 min drive)
๐ Peak Times & Occupancy
| Timeframe | Occupancy | Typical Users |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday Mornings | ~30 % | Early walkers & photographers |
| Weekday Afternoons | ~25 % | Deer-spotters & picnic groups |
| Weekends (10:00โ16:00) | ~80 % | Families & sun-seekers |
| Evenings (pre-close) | ~10 % | Sunset enthusiasts |
Pro Tip: Arrive before 09:30 on weekends to secure a spot closest to the main trailhead.
๐ถ Walkability Score
| Destination | Walk Time | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Deer Sanctuary Trails | On-site | Immediate access to wild deer viewing areas |
| Queen Anneโs Gate Viewpoint | 5 min | Panoramic vistas over the parkโs ancient oaks |
| Savill Garden Entrance | 15 min | Ticketed gardens, cafรฉ & visitor facilities |
| Cumberland Gate Cafรฉ | 10 min | Snacks, refreshments & public restrooms |
โ ๏ธ Important Notices
Closing Time: Gates lock promptlyโplease allow time to return before 19:00 or dusk.
Surface Warning: After heavy rain, gravel may be slipperyโdrive and disembark with care.
Wildlife Respect: Keep to waymarked paths and maintain a respectful distance from deer.
๐ Expert Tips
Picnic Hack: Park here, then walk the short spur to the Sentinel Lawn for riverside picnics away from crowds.
Badge Ease: Blue Badge holders should choose the flattest bays nearest the entrance to minimize walking distance.
Seasonal Views: Spring bluebells carpet the woodsโvisit from late April to early May for best displays.
๐ฎ Future Developments
2025: Introduction of informational signage at the entrance outlining accessible routes and trail grades.
2026+: Feasibility study for a solar-powered digital panel displaying car park occupancy and park notices.