Earl of Wessex reopens museum
The Earl of Wessex officially reopened The Windsor and Royal Borough Museum and the relocated Royal Windsor Visitor Information Centre on Tuesday.
The museum reopened last month after a break of nearly two years, with the visitor information centre now housed under the same roof – with admission free to all.
The museum has been in the Guildhall for more than 10 years and previously there had been an entry fee. The information centre was located separately in the Old Ticket Office at Windsor Royal Station.
The Earl of Wessex officially declared the Windsor Guildhall open and unveiled a plaque at the Corn Exchange commemorating the Platinum Jubilee and the centenary of King George V confirming Windsor as a Royal Borough.
His Royal Highness was given a guided tour of the building and introduced to staff and had the opportunity to view some of the artefacts on display.
Councillor Samantha Rayner, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for business, corporate and residents services, culture & heritage, and Windsor, said: “This exciting project, bringing together two complementary facilities in the historical heart of Windsor town centre, has created the perfect partnership in the museum and information centre, for the benefit of all our visitors. Having His Royal Highness declare it officially open is the perfect way to celebrate this success story.”
The Earl of Wessex also attended a special concert in St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle on Saturday to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
The Bradenburg Sinfonia Orchestra joined the Windsor & Eton Choral Society to perform works by Benjamin Britten, Edward Elgar, Hubert Parry and Ralph Vaughan Williams.
The concert was conducted by Tim Johnson, musical director of WECS and Precentor and director of music at Eton College, with soloists Alice Coote and Richard Bannon performing.
A Jubilee Concert on Friday, June 3 at St George’s Chapel is also in the pipeline.