Free visitor parking at the Cavalry Exercise Ground – perfect for Windsor Great Park walks, deer spotting & picnic outings from SL4 2BD.
đźš— Type: Free Public Surface Car Park
🏛️ Jurisdiction: Windsor Great Park Authority
🕒 Open: 07:00 – 19:00 (or dusk, whichever is earlier)
🌟 Rating: 4.5 / 5 (visitor feedback)
đź’° Pricing & Permits
Cost: Free for all visitors
Permits: None required
Enforcement: Gates lock at closing time—overnight parking is prohibited
📊 Capacity & Physical Features
Feature | Detail |
---|---|
Total Bays | Approximately 30 unmarked gravel bays |
Surface | Compacted gravel (may rut or puddle after heavy rain) |
Lighting | None—daylight use only |
Security | Patrols by park rangers; no CCTV |
Height Limit | None |
♿ 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 park’s waymarked trails; gentle gradients suited for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Drop-Off: Informal layby at the car park entrance for quick unload.
🔌 EV Infrastructure
On-Site Charging: None
Nearest Options:
Virginia Water Car Park (SL5 7SB): Rapid chargers at Ranger’s Gate (5 min drive)
Ranger’s Gate Visitor Car Park (SL4 2LD): Pod Point units (7 min drive)
đź“… Peak Times & Occupancy
Timeframe | Occupancy | Typical Users |
---|---|---|
Weekday Mornings | ~30 % | Early walkers & photographers |
Weekday Afternoons | ~25 % | Deer-spotters & picnic groups |
Weekends (10:00–16:00) | ~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.
đźš¶ Walkability Score
Destination | Walk Time | Key Benefit |
---|---|---|
Deer Sanctuary Trails | On-site | Immediate access to wild deer viewing areas |
Queen Anne’s Gate Viewpoint | 5 min | Panoramic vistas over the park’s ancient oaks |
Savill Garden Entrance | 15 min | Ticketed gardens, café & visitor facilities |
Cumberland Gate Café | 10 min | Snacks, refreshments & public restrooms |
⚠️ Important Notices
Closing Time: Gates lock promptly—please allow time to return before 19:00 or dusk.
Surface Warning: After heavy rain, gravel may be slippery—drive and disembark with care.
Wildlife Respect: Keep to waymarked paths and maintain a respectful distance from deer.
📌 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 woods—visit from late April to early May for best displays.
đź”® 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.