Best Parkings for Windsor Castle

July 9, 2024| February 1, 2025

J. Shaw 15 min read

Windsor Castle, a historical marvel and the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle, attracts millions of visitors annually. As a popular tourist destination, finding suitable parking can significantly enhance your visit. This article explores the best parking options available for Windsor Castle, providing you with practical information and insights to make your trip seamless and enjoyable.

Parking Option	Location	Capacity	Fee	Additional Info
Windsor & Eton Riverside Station Car Park	Datchet Road, Windsor, SL4 1QG	250	£10 per day	Convenient for train arrivals
Alma Road Car Park	Alma Road, Windsor, SL4 3HY	300	£8 per day	Ideal for long stays
King Edward VII Car Park	King Edward Court, Windsor, SL4 1TF	200	£12 per day	Closest to Windsor Castle
Legoland Windsor Resort Park and Ride	Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY	500	£15 per day	Includes shuttle service
Home Park and Ride	Datchet Road, Windsor, SL4 1QN	400	£10 per day	Includes shuttle service
Windsor Castle Accessible Parking	Castle Hill, Windsor, SL4 1NJ	20	Free for Blue Badge holders	Limited spaces available

Informational Table – Best Parkings for Windsor Castle

Top Public Car Parks Near Windsor Castle

Several public car parks are conveniently located near Windsor Castle, offering various options to suit different needs.

Windsor & Eton Riverside Station Car Park

This car park, located a short walk from Windsor Castle, is convenient for visitors arriving by train. It offers ample spaces and reasonable rates, making it a popular choice among tourists.

Location: Datchet Road, Windsor, SL4 1QG
Capacity: 250 spaces
Fee: £10 per day

Alma Road Car Park

Situated a bit further from the castle, Alma Road Car Park provides an excellent option for those willing to walk a little extra. It offers a large number of spaces and is ideal for long stays.

Location: Alma Road, Windsor, SL4 3HY
Capacity: 300 spaces
Fee: £8 per day

King Edward VII Car Park

King Edward VII Car Park is one of the closest options to Windsor Castle, offering convenience for those who prefer minimal walking.

Location: King Edward Court, Windsor, SL4 1TF
Capacity: 200 spaces
Fee: £12 per day

Park and Ride Services

Park-and-ride services provide a practical solution for visitors seeking a hassle-free parking experience. These services allow you to park your car in designated areas outside the town centre and take a shuttle bus to Windsor Castle.

Legoland Windsor Resort Park and Ride

Although primarily serving Legoland visitors, this park-and-ride service also caters to Windsor Castle tourists. The shuttle buses run frequently, ensuring minimal wait times.

Location: Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY
Capacity: 500 spaces
Fee: £15 per day (includes shuttle service)

Home Park and Ride

Located on the outskirts of Windsor, Home Park and Ride offers ample parking and regular shuttle services to the town centre and the castle.

Location: Datchet Road, Windsor, SL4 1QN
Capacity: 400 spaces
Fee: £10 per day (includes shuttle service)

Accessible Parking Options

Windsor Castle is committed to providing accessible facilities for all visitors. There are several dedicated parking options for those with disabilities.

Windsor Castle Accessible Parking

Windsor Castle offers a limited number of accessible parking spaces within its grounds. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis and require a Blue Badge for access.

Location: Castle Hill, Windsor, SL4 1NJ
Capacity: 20 spaces
Fee: Free for Blue Badge holders
Public Car Parks with Accessible Spaces

Most public car parks near Windsor Castle have designated accessible parking spaces. It’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Understanding Parking Regulations in Windsor

Before diving into the specifics of parking near Windsor Castle, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local parking regulations. Windsor operates under stringent parking rules to manage the high volume of visitors and maintain the town’s charm and functionality.

Parking Zones

Windsor has several parking zones, each with rules and fees. These zones include:

Short Stay Parking: Ideal for visitors planning a quick tour. Time limits usually range from 1 to 4 hours.
Long Stay Parking: Suitable for those intending to explore the castle and its surroundings the entire day.
Residential Parking Zones: Reserved for local residents, usually marked by specific signs.

Parking Fees

Parking fees in Windsor vary depending on the location and duration. To avoid surprises, check the latest fees on the Windsor and Maidenhead Council website.

Tips for Finding the Best Parking Spot

To make your visit as smooth as possible, consider the following tips:

Arrive Early: Windsor Castle is a popular attraction, and car parks fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Check Availability Online: Some car parks offer online booking systems, allowing you to reserve a spot in advance.
Consider Alternative Transport: If parking options seem limited, consider using public transport or taxis to reach the castle.

Alternative Parking Solutions

In addition to the main car parks and park-and-ride services, several alternative parking solutions are worth considering.

Private Parking Spaces

Some local residents and businesses offer private parking spaces for a fee. Websites like JustPark and YourParkingSpace can help you find and book these spaces in advance.

Hotel Parking

If you’re staying overnight in Windsor, many hotels offer parking facilities for guests. Check with your hotel regarding availability and fees.

Avoiding Parking Fines

To avoid parking fines during your visit to Windsor Castle, adhere to the following guidelines:

Read Signs Carefully: Pay attention to parking signs and restrictions in the area.
Pay and Display: Ensure you pay for the correct duration and display your ticket prominently.
Avoid Residential Zones: Only park in residential zones with a valid permit.

Conclusion to the Best Parkings for Windsor Castle

Finding the best parking for Windsor Castle can be easy. Understanding the available options and planning ahead can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this historic site. Whether you choose a public car park, a park-and-ride service, or an alternative solution, each option offers its own set of benefits. Plan your trip carefully, arrive early, and enjoy your time exploring the magnificent Windsor Castle.

FAQ

Is there parking available at Windsor Castle?

Visitors can use nearby car parks, such as Windsor Yards, King Edward VII, or River Street, which are within walking distance. Public transport and park-and-ride facilities are also recommended.

Which car park is the closest to Windsor Castle?

River Street Car Park is the closest, just a 5-minute walk from Windsor Castle. It is ideal for short stays, though spaces are limited.

How much does parking cost at Windsor Yards Car Park?

Windsor Yards charges £2.50 for the first hour, increasing rates incrementally. A 4-hour stay costs around £9. Check the car park website for updated pricing.

Are there any free parking options near Windsor Castle?

Free parking is rare in central Windsor. However, some residential streets may offer free parking on Sundays or evenings. Always check local signage for restrictions to avoid fines.

Can I book parking in advance for Windsor Castle?

Platforms like JustPark and YourParkingSpace allow you to pre-book parking in Windsor, ensuring a spot near the castle. Costs vary by location and duration.

Are there disabled parking facilities near Windsor Castle?

Blue Badge spaces are available in most central car parks, including River Street and Alma Road. These spaces are typically close to key attractions, with reduced or no charges for badge holders.

Does Windsor have park-and-ride services?

Yes, Windsor offers park-and-ride services from locations such as Legoland. Shuttle buses run regularly to the town centre, providing a stress-free option for visitors.

What are the operating hours of Windsor Yards Car Park?

Windsor Yards Car Park operates 24/7 and is convenient for early or late visits to Windsor Castle. Rates and restrictions apply at all times.

Are there electric vehicle charging stations near Windsor Castle?

Yes, King Edward VII Car Park offers EV charging points. Spaces may be limited, so checking availability via apps like Zap-Map is advisable.

Where can I park my motorcycle near Windsor Castle?

Dedicated motorcycle bays are available at car parks like Alma Road and River Street. Charges are lower than for cars, and signage will indicate designated areas.

Is there coach parking near Windsor Castle?

Windsor Coach Park provides facilities for coaches. Advance booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons. It is located close to the town centre.

What payment methods are accepted in Windsor car parks?

Most car parks accept coins, credit/debit cards, and mobile payments via RingGo or similar apps. Before arrival, ensure you have the necessary payment method.

How busy are Windsor’s car parks during peak times?

Car parks near Windsor Castle, especially River Street and Windsor Yards, can be extremely busy on weekends and holidays. Arrive early or pre-book to secure a spot.

Is there parking available for larger vehicles or caravans?

Due to height and size restrictions, larger vehicles may struggle in central Windsor car parks. Contact Windsor Coach Park or check JustPark for suitable options.

How can I avoid parking fines near Windsor Castle?

Follow all parking regulations, pay the appropriate fees, and adhere to time limits. Double-check restrictions displayed on local signage to ensure compliance.

Can I park overnight near Windsor Castle?

Overnight parking is allowed in car parks like Windsor Yards and Alma Road. Fees apply, and you should verify operating hours beforehand.

Are there family-friendly parking options near Windsor Castle?

Windsor Yards and King Edward VII car parks provide spacious bays and convenient lifts, making them ideal for families with pushchairs or young children.

What are the height restrictions in Windsor car parks?

Multi-storey car parks like Windsor Yards have height restrictions of around 2 metres. If you are driving a taller vehicle, check individual car parks for exact dimensions.