Totem Pole in Windsor Great Park
Totem Pole in Windsor Great Park
Highlight • Monument
Hiking
4.9
(126)
Cycling
4.9
(76)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
The Totem Pole at Windsor Great Park is a remarkable man-made monument, standing proudly at 83 metres above sea level within the expansive grounds of Windsor Great Park in Berkshire, England. This towering 100-foot structure, carved from a single 600-year-old Western Red Cedar log, serves as a powerful symbol of the enduring connection between British Columbia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Located in the picturesque Valley Gardens area near Virginia Water, on the bank of Wick Pond, it's a significant…
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Tips
April 23, 2018
Hiking
April 24, 2018
Cycling
July 11, 2021
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Totem Pole in Windsor Great Park
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Elevation 80 m
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The Totem Pole is scheduled to be lowered in 2024 as it has reached the end of its natural lifespan after standing for over 60 years. While it will no longer stand upright, it will be laid to rest at a new location within Windsor Great Park, where it will remain an attraction. A disconnection ceremony by First Nations members is planned before its final resting.
Yes, many popular walking routes within Windsor Great Park incorporate the Totem Pole as a key landmark. While the immediate path to the pole is straightforward, numerous circular trails branch off, allowing hikers to explore the picturesque Valley Gardens, Virginia Water Lake, and other features of the park before returning to their starting point. These routes vary in length and difficulty, catering to different preferences.
The terrain immediately surrounding the Totem Pole and leading to it from the Valley Gardens parking area is generally flat and well-maintained, suitable for most visitors. For those venturing further into Windsor Great Park, trails can range from paved paths to gravel tracks and natural woodland trails. While there are no significant elevation gains in the immediate vicinity, longer routes within the park may include gentle undulations. Overall, most walks are considered easy to moderate.
Access to Windsor Great Park and the Totem Pole area by public transport is possible, though it may require a combination of train and bus or a longer walk. The nearest train stations are Virginia Water or Egham. From these stations, local bus services or a taxi would be needed to reach the park entrances, such as the Valley Gardens or Wick Lane gates, from which the Totem Pole is accessible on foot.
No, general walking and hiking within Windsor Great Park, including visits to the Totem Pole, do not require any special permits. The park is open to the public, though certain activities like cycling may have restrictions in specific areas (e.g., cycling is prohibited past the pole towards the waterfall). Standard car parking charges apply at designated car parks.
The walks around the Totem Pole are highly family-friendly due to several factors. The paths leading to the monument are generally flat and wide, suitable for pushchairs and younger children. The impressive size and intricate carvings of the Totem Pole itself are often captivating for kids. Additionally, the surrounding Windsor Great Park offers plenty of open space for children to explore, along with other attractions like the Valley Gardens and Virginia Water Lake, making for a varied and engaging family outing.
For a comfortable visit, it's recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes, as even short walks can cover a fair distance. Depending on the weather, bring appropriate layers, rain gear, and sun protection. Water and snacks are advisable, especially if planning a longer hike. For families, consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the park. Don't forget your camera to capture the unique monument and beautiful surroundings!
Yes, there are refreshment options within Windsor Great Park. The Virginia Water Pavilion, located near the lake and a short walk from the Totem Pole, offers a cafe with food and drinks. Additionally, there are often refreshment kiosks available during peak seasons. For traditional pubs, you would typically need to venture slightly outside the immediate park boundaries into nearby villages like Virginia Water or Englefield Green.
The Totem Pole offers several excellent photographic opportunities. Its sheer height makes it impressive from directly below, capturing the intricate carvings against the sky. For a wider shot, views from across Wick Pond can provide a beautiful reflection, especially on a calm day. During autumn, the surrounding foliage of the Valley Gardens can create a vibrant backdrop. Experiment with different angles along the path to capture its grandeur and unique details.
Beyond being a gift to Queen Elizabeth II in 1958, the Totem Pole has a rich backstory. It was carved by the renowned Chief Mungo Martin, a master craftsman of the Kwakiutl (Kwakwaka'wakw) tribe, who was instrumental in preserving this ancient art form. An intriguing anecdote tells of an initial 'curse' placed on the pole by Chief Martin due to a misunderstanding regarding his invitation to Britain, which was later lifted. The Royal Engineers also played a significant role in its erection, further symbolizing historical links between British Columbia and the Corps.
The Totem Pole is a popular attraction within Windsor Great Park, so it can get quite busy, particularly on sunny weekends, bank holidays, and during school breaks. To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Weekdays generally offer a more tranquil experience. The surrounding park is vast, so even on busy days, it's possible to find quieter paths away from the immediate monument area.