Queen's digital walking trail unveiled in Windsor

Outdoor Trust chairman Hugo Vickers and councillor Eileen Quick unveiled the first plaque outside the Henry VIII Gate of Windsor Castle

A digital walking trail has been unveiled in Windsor ahead of Queen Elizabeth II becoming the longest reigning monarch in British history.

The Queen's Walkway will be 6.3km (3.9m) long and dotted by 63 pavement plaques to mark her 63-year reign.

Under each plaque an "iBeacon" will activate site and route information on smart phones via a free app.

The first plaque was installed by the gateway of Windsor Castle on Friday and the trail will open on 9 September.

'Unique tribute'

The opening day is the day the Queen is due to surpass her great-great-grandmother Queen Victoria's rule of 63 years, seven months and two days.

Councillor Eileen Quick from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead said the walking trail was a "unique tribute" to the monarch.

She added: "It is important we recognise this landmark in the Queen's reign and in British history, especially in the Royal Borough which has such strong connections to the monarchy."

The castle is an official residence of the Queen.

The interactive plaques were created by the council in partnership with the Outdoor Trust.

There will also be a panoramic panel installed in the town centre with the route map.