Among the few monastic buildings that remain in the cathedral grounds is the deanery. Pilgrims' Hall supposedly has the oldest reversed hull ceiling known. Just next to the large St Swithin's Gate stands Cheyney Court, with its 15C timber, and the early 16C stables that are now part of Pilgrims' School.

A water park, set around the old gravel pits: rafting on Thunder River and the impressive dive of Logger's Leap (remember to smile for the camera half-way down). Waterbuses glide across the lake to the 1930 Thorpe Farm and there are plenty of gentle rides for younger children.

The 1550 tower of St Mary's Church, built in the 13C and enlarged in 1400, dominates it. Note, inside the church, the funerary monument of Lady Periam (early 17C), and, outside, the hospice and cantor's house.

Extended and rebuilt by a succession of kings and queens, it has been a favourite royal residence since William the Conqueror in around 1080. The royal family is in residence throughout April and for Ascot Week in June when the annual Garter Day ceremonies are held. The principal changes were made in the 19C when George IV commissioned Jeffrey Wyattville to build the machiolated walls and towers, giving the castle its famous outline.