Summer surge to Windsor's attractions thanks to the sunshine

The birth of the new royal baby and the July heatwave have added to a tourism boom in Windsor.

The town is enjoying a summer surge in visitor numbers and the success of last year's Olympic and jubilee events have been highlighted as helping broaden the town's appeal.

Julia White, the Royal Borough visitor manager, said: "The impact of the jubilee and the Olympics have really put Windsor on the map."

The Visitor Information Centre in Thames Street  has seen ticket sales up by four times for some nearby attractions.

"Legoland has already had a number of bank holiday weekends where they have been full to capacity," said Ms White.

"Windsor castle has reported very high numbers of visitors. It is all looking extremely positive."

Ms White also spoke of the effect that the royal baby has had on the area.

"Seeing Windsor on the regional news because of the royal birth just reminds people that they should come for the day or for the weekend," she said.

No specific numbers are available but trends are identified by collating information provided by a number of major attractions, including Windsor Castle, Legoland and the Windsor Royal Shopping Centre.

Eileen Fahri, owner of The Rutlands Bed and Breakfast in St Leonards Road, said she had an increase in 'knockers'  - people arriving to ask for a room - around the time of the Royal Birth.

She said: "We have definitely seen a surge in custom.

"Windsor is a very good tourist location. Eton College has also become increasingly popular. I would put it on a par now with the castle."

Paul Fogg, owner of Langton House Bed and Breakfast on  Alma Road in Windsor, said he has found  the last few weeks to be business as usual.

"Business is not bad, but it is nothing like it was before the recession," he said.

Windsor Leisure Centre reported an increase in the sale of ice-cream and has doubled its orders to cope with the demand.