Get to Windsor Castle From Hereford
Key Points
- Windsor Castle is approximately 119, 123, or 147 miles (192, 198, or 237 kilometres) from Hereford by car, depending on the route taken.
- The fastest and most straightforward driving route is via the M4, taking around 2 hours and 33 minutes and covering roughly 123 miles through the A438, B4215, A417, and M4 before arriving at Windsor via the A355 and A332.
- Alternatively, you can take the M40 route, slightly longer at 2 hours and 50 minutes, or the scenic A40 route through the Cotswolds, which takes about 2 hours and 55 minutes.
- For those preferring public transport, trains take between 3 hours 9 minutes and 3 hours 30 minutes, typically involving changes at Newport, Reading, and Slough, with the final leg to Windsor by train or local bus. Although less direct, the train option offers a stress-free journey and avoids traffic.
- Enthusiastic cyclists may also tackle the journey with the quickest route—via National Cycle Route 57—spanning about 123 miles and taking nearly 11 hours.
- While all methods have their merits, the M4 car route is generally the best in terms of time and ease, especially for those seeking flexibility and a relatively quick drive through the countryside.
🚗 By Car: Comparison of Routes from Hereford to Windsor Castle
| Route | Duration | Distance | Key Roads Used | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Via M4 (Fastest) | ~2 hr 33 min | 123 mi | A438, A40, A417, A419, M4, A355, A332 | Direct, motorway-heavy; check for M4 traffic/closures |
| Via M40 | ~2 hr 50 min | 147 mi | A4103, M5, M42, M40, A404(M), M4, A355 | Longer but useful during M4 congestion |
| Via A40 (Scenic) | ~2 hr 55 min | 119 mi | A438, B4215, A40, A436, M40, A404(M) | Most scenic; rural A-roads and countryside views |
🚆 By Train: Comparison of Routes from Hereford to Windsor Castle
| Route | Duration | Changes | Mode Mix | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Via Newport–Reading–Slough | ~3 hr 9 min | 2–3 | All by train | Fastest, smooth connections; ends at Windsor & Eton Central |
| Via Newport–Reading–Maidenhead (bus to Windsor) | ~3 hr 18–30 min | 3–4 | Train + Bus | More bus time; longer due to bus frequency and stops |
| Via Gloucester–Reading–Slough | ~3 hr 26 min+ | 3–4 | Coach + Train | Involves National Express coach and more walking |
| Via Newport–Didcot Parkway–Slough | ~3 hr 30 min | 3–4 | All by train | Slower due to extra stops and platform transfers |
🚴♀️ By Cycle: Comparison of Routes from Hereford to Windsor Castle
| Route | Distance | Time Estimate | Terrain Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Via National Cycle Route 57 | ~123 mi | ~10 hr 56 min | Mixed: tarmac & unsealed | Passes through the Cotswolds; scenic route with rolling countryside |
| Via NCR 45 + NCR 4 (south loop) | ~134 mi | ~12 hr 10 min | Rural roads + cycle paths | Heads south through Gloucester and Swindon; flatter but longer |
| Via A438 + minor roads (direct) | ~120 mi | ~10 hr 30 min | Roads (mostly paved) | Most direct but follows more main roads; less scenic, more traffic |
Getting to Windsor Castle from Hereford by Car
Route 1: Via M4 (Fastest Route)
If you are travelling from Hereford to Windsor Castle by car, one of the fastest and most direct routes is via the M4. The total journey typically takes approximately 2 hours and 33 minutes under normal traffic conditions, covering a distance of around 123 miles.
Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the full route:
Start: Hereford, UK
- Begin by taking East Street to St Owen’s Street (Approx. 2 min / 0.4 miles):
- Head west on High Street towards Broad Street (364 ft)
- Turn left onto East Street (0.3 mi)
- Turn left onto St Ethelbert Street (112 ft)
- Turn left at the first cross street onto Cantilupe Street (72 ft)
- Take the A438 to B4215 in Gloucestershire (Approx. 23 min / 13.1 miles):
- Turn right onto St Owen’s Street (0.3 mi)
- Continue onto Ledbury Road / A438 (10.0 mi)
- Turn right onto A4172 (2.8 mi)
- Follow B4215 to A40 in Highnam (Approx. 21 min / 14.0 miles):
- At Preston Cross Roundabout, continue straight onto B4215 (6.7 mi)
- Turn left to stay on B4215 (7.2 mi)
- Follow A417, A419 and M4 to A355 in Slough (Approx. 1 hr 38 min / 92.6 miles):
- Merge onto A40 (1.1 mi)
- At Over Roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on A40 (1.3 mi)
- At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on A40 (0.9 mi)
- At the following roundabout, again take the 2nd exit to stay on A40 (1.0 mi)
- At Elmbridge Court, take the 4th exit onto A417 (1.0 mi)
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit to stay on A417 (0.6 mi)
- At Zoons Court Roundabout, take the 1st exit to stay on A417 (4.3 mi)
- At The Air Balloon Roundabout, take the 2nd exit to continue on A417 (14.4 mi)
- Continue onto A419 (7.4 mi)
- Continue straight onto Blunsdon Bypass / A419 (7.1 mi)
- At Badbury Roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the M4 ramp to London (0.4 mi)
- Merge onto M4 (52.9 mi)
- Take the exit toward A355 (0.3 mi)
- Continue on A355. Take Royal Windsor Way / A332 and Clarence Road to Castle Hill in Windsor (Approx. 8 min / 2.8 miles):
- At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A355 (0.5 mi)
- Continue onto Royal Windsor Way / A332 (1.2 mi)
- Slight left onto Clarence Road (0.5 mi), passing through 1 roundabout
- Continue onto Victoria Street (0.3 mi)
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Sheet Street / B3022 (0.2 mi)
Note: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or days - Turn right onto Castle Hill (266 ft)
Destination: Windsor Castle
This route offers a scenic and relatively straightforward drive through the English countryside, connecting Hereford to Windsor Castle with minimal transfers between roads.
Always check for live traffic updates or road closures before setting off.
Route 2: Via M40 (Alternative Route)
As an alternative to the M4 route, travellers can opt for the M40 route, which is a longer but still straightforward journey. This route generally takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete and covers approximately 147 miles under usual driving conditions.
Here is a detailed step-by-step guide:
Start: Hereford, UK
- Get on M5 in Whittington from A4103 and A4440 (Approx. 49 min / 30.1 miles):
- Head west on High Street towards Broad Street (364 ft)
- Turn left onto East Street (0.3 mi)
- Turn left onto St Ethelbert Street (112 ft)
- Turn left at the first cross street onto Cantilupe Street (72 ft)
- Turn right onto St Owen’s Street (0.3 mi)
- Continue onto Ledbury Road / A438 (0.4 mi)
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Bodenham Road (0.3 mi)
- Continue onto Southbank Road (0.1 mi)
- Turn right onto Aylestone Hill / A465, going through 2 roundabouts (1.0 mi)
- At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A4103 (20.1 mi)
- At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit, continuing on A4103 (2.0 mi)
- At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Grove Way / A4440 (0.7 mi)
- At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Hams Way / A4440 (1.3 mi)
- At Powick Roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Temeside Way / A4440 (1.3 mi)
- At Ketch Roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Broomhall Way / A4440 (0.6 mi)
- At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Crookbarrow Way / A4440 (0.9 mi)
- At the following roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Whittington Road (0.3 mi)
- At the final roundabout in this section, take the 1st exit onto the M5 ramp to Birmingham (0.3 mi)
- Continue on M5. Take M42 and M40 to A355 in Slough (Approx. 1 hr 52 min / 114 miles):
- Merge onto M5 (13.3 mi)
- Slight left onto M42, following signs for N.E.C. & Airport (11.6 mi)
- Keep right to continue on M40, following signs for London / Warwick / Stratford (74.3 mi)
- At junction 4, take the exit for A404 to High Wycombe / Marlow / M4 / Maidenhead (0.3 mi)
- Use the right two lanes to take the ramp to A404 (230 ft)
- At Handy Cross Roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto A404 (4.4 mi)
- At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on A404 (3.0 mi)
- Keep right to continue on A404(M), following signs for Reading / Slough / Windsor / M4 (2.5 mi)
- Use the middle lane to turn slightly left onto Holyport Interchange (322 ft)
- Use the middle lane to take the M4 exit toward London (0.2 mi)
- Slight right to merge onto M4 (4.4 mi)
- Take the exit toward A355 (0.3 mi)
- Final stretch via A355 and Royal Windsor Way to Windsor Castle (Approx. 8 min / 2.8 miles):
- At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A355 (0.5 mi)
- Continue onto Royal Windsor Way / A332 (1.2 mi)
- Slight left onto Clarence Road, passing through 1 roundabout (0.5 mi)
- Continue onto Victoria Street (0.3 mi)
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Sheet Street / B3022 (0.2 mi)
Note: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or days - Turn right onto Castle Hill (266 ft)
Destination: Windsor Castle
This route, while slightly longer in both time and distance, may be preferable during times of congestion on the M4 or for those seeking to avoid long stretches of motorway. It offers a pleasant drive through the Midlands and the Chiltern Hills before reaching the historic town of Windsor.
Always check for live traffic updates and planned roadworks ahead of your journey.
Route 3: Via A40 (Scenic Alternative Route)
This third option offers a more scenic alternative, taking in parts of the Cotswolds and Oxfordshire countryside. The journey takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes under typical traffic conditions and covers approximately 119 miles.
This route may appeal to those who prefer to avoid long stretches of motorway and instead enjoy a blend of rural A-roads and short sections of the M40 and M4.
Here’s the full route breakdown:
Start: Hereford, UK
- Initial section – Exiting Hereford and joining A438 (Approx. 2 min / 0.4 miles):
- Head west on High Street towards Broad Street (364 ft)
- Turn left onto East Street (0.3 mi)
- Turn left onto St Ethelbert Street (112 ft)
- Turn left at the first cross street onto Cantilupe Street (72 ft)
- Take A438 to B4215 in Gloucestershire (Approx. 23 min / 13.1 miles):
- Turn right onto St Owen’s Street (0.3 mi)
- Continue onto Ledbury Road / A438 (10.0 mi)
- Turn right onto A4172 (2.8 mi)
- Follow B4215 to A40 in Highnam (Approx. 21 min / 14.0 miles):
- At Preston Cross Roundabout, continue straight onto B4215 (6.7 mi)
- Turn left to stay on B4215 (7.2 mi)
- Main section – Join A40 and follow towards M40 and M4 (Approx. 1 hr 53 min / 89.0 miles):
- Merge onto A40 (1.1 mi)
- At Over Roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on A40 (1.3 mi)
- Continue through a series of roundabouts, staying on A40:
- 2nd exit (0.9 mi)
- 2nd exit (1.0 mi)
- At Elmbridge Court Roundabout, take the 4th exit onto A417 (1.0 mi)
- At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit to stay on A417 (0.6 mi)
- At Zoons Court Roundabout, take the 1st exit and stay on A417 (4.3 mi)
- At The Air Balloon Roundabout, take the 1st exit onto A436 (289 ft)
- At the following roundabout, take the 2nd exit to stay on A436 (2.2 mi)
- At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto A435/A436 (246 ft)
- Then take the 3rd exit at the roundabout to stay on A436 (4.2 mi)
- Turn right onto A40 (15.0 mi)
- Continue along A40 through Oxfordshire:
- At Burford Roundabout, take the 3rd exit to stay on A40 (2.6 mi)
- At Asthall Barrow Roundabout, take the 2nd exit (2.6 mi)
- Continue straight through another roundabout on A40 (7.1 mi)
- At Eynsham Roundabout, take the 2nd exit (3.8 mi)
- At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto North Way / Sunderland Avenue / A40 (0.4 mi)
- At another roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Elsfield Way / North Way / A40 (3.7 mi)
- Use the left 2 lanes to turn slightly left onto Headington Roundabout (82 ft)
- Take the left 2 lanes to turn left onto London Road / A40 (6.0 mi)
- Join M40 and continue to M4 via A404(M):
- Merge onto M40 (16.2 mi)
- At junction 4, take the A404 exit to High Wycombe / Marlow / M4 / Maidenhead (0.3 mi)
- Use the right 2 lanes to take the ramp to A404 (230 ft)
- At Handy Cross Roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto A404 (4.4 mi)
- At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on A404 (3.0 mi)
- Keep right to continue on A404(M), following signs for Reading / Slough / Windsor / M4 (2.5 mi)
- Use the middle lane to turn slightly left onto Holyport Interchange (322 ft)
- Use the middle lane again to take the M4 exit toward London (0.2 mi)
- Slight right to merge onto M4 (4.4 mi)
- Take the exit toward A355 (0.3 mi)
- Final section – Into Windsor via A355 and A332 (Approx. 8 min / 2.8 miles):
- At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A355 (0.5 mi)
- Continue onto Royal Windsor Way / A332 (1.2 mi)
- Slight left onto Clarence Road, passing through 1 roundabout (0.5 mi)
- Continue onto Victoria Street (0.3 mi)
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Sheet Street / B3022 (0.2 mi)
Note: Some parts of this road may be closed at specific times or days - Turn right onto Castle Hill (266 ft)
Destination: Windsor Castle
This A40-based route is ideal for drivers looking to balance ease of access with a more picturesque drive. Though it may take a bit longer than the other options, it weaves through charming towns and countryside, making it a pleasant journey in its own right.
Always check for traffic updates and road conditions before departure.
Getting to Windsor Castle From Hereford by Train
Travelling from Hereford to Windsor Castle by train involves a variety of routes, each with differing durations, connection points, and waiting times. Depending on the chosen route and time of travel, the overall journey can range from approximately 3 hours 9 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes. These variances largely stem from the number of changes involved, waiting periods between connections, and whether buses or additional modes of transport are required near the journey’s end.
Typical Route Structure
Most train journeys from Hereford to Windsor require multiple changes, with common interchange stations being Newport, Reading, Slough, and, in some instances, Gloucester, Maidenhead, or Didcot Parkway. Journeys often start on a Transport for Wales service to Newport, where travellers transfer to GWR services, and in some cases, the Elizabeth line, to get closer to Windsor.
Final approaches to Windsor are typically made via Slough, transferring to a short GWR shuttle service that terminates at Windsor & Eton Central, a short walk from Windsor Castle. Alternatively, some journeys use Maidenhead or Slough buses to Windsor town centre.
Journey Duration & Variation
- Fastest Journey (~3 hr 9 min)
- Occurs with efficient connections and minimal waiting at interchange stations.
- Example: A later morning journey starting at 10:34 AM and arriving at 1:43 PM includes smooth transfers via Newport, Reading, and Slough, all with short walking times between platforms and minimal layovers.
- Moderate Duration (~3 hr 18–3 hr 26 min)
- Slightly longer due to either longer waiting periods or the use of bus transfers instead of trains for the final stretch.
- For example, one route uses a bus from Slough to Windsor town centre, adding around 6–10 minutes due to bus boarding and possible traffic.
- Another variation includes travel via Maidenhead, with a switch to a local bus (Route 16), which involves more stops (22) and walking between modes, resulting in a total journey of about 3 hr 30 min.
- Longest Journey (~3 hr 30 min)
- These typically involve longer waiting periods between train connections, more walking time, or the addition of bus travel.
- Some journeys involve disembarking at Reading or Maidenhead and continuing the remainder by bus, which can introduce delays and slightly extend the total duration.
Contributing Factors to Time Differences
- Transfer Wait Times: The gap between trains, especially at Reading or Slough, can range from just a few minutes to 20 minutes or more, depending on the schedule.
- Number of Stops: Some trains have more intermediate stops than others, such as the GWR service from Gloucester or Didcot Parkway, which may add time.
- Alternative Transport Modes: Routes that include buses (e.g., from Maidenhead or Wellington Street, Slough) introduce additional variability due to road traffic and bus frequency.
- Walking Times: While typically short, walking between platforms or to nearby bus stops adds a few minutes and can impact total journey time if connections are tight.
Routes Summary
- Via Newport – Reading – Slough – Windsor: The most frequent and reliable, often using train-only services.
- Via Newport – Reading – Maidenhead – Windsor (Bus): Slightly longer, involving a bus connection, suitable if trains to Slough are less frequent.
- Via Gloucester – Reading – Slough – Windsor: Starts with a National Express coach to Gloucester, then train services, adding more complexity and walking.
- Via Newport – Didcot Parkway – Slough – Windsor: A more indirect route with two GWR transfers, typically longer due to extra stops and platform changes.
While not direct, the train journey from Hereford to Windsor Castle is manageable with multiple routing options. The quickest journeys tend to be those with well-aligned train connections through Newport and Slough. Routes involving buses or additional transfers at less direct stations such as Maidenhead or Gloucester will naturally take longer. Selecting a departure time with minimal layovers will ensure a smoother and more efficient trip.
Getting to Windsor Castle From Hereford By Cycle
Cycling from Hereford to Windsor Castle offers a scenic yet demanding journey through the English countryside. Depending on the chosen route, the distance ranges from approximately 123 to 162 miles, with estimated cycling times between 11 to 14 hours. Each route presents its own unique landscapes, notable landmarks, and challenges.
Route 1: Via National Cycle Route 57
- Distance: Approximately 123 miles
- Estimated Time: Around 10 hours and 56 minutes
- Elevation: Ascend 3,406 ft; Descend 3,488 ft
- Terrain: Mixed surfaces, including asphalt and unsealed paths
- Notable Places: The route traverses the Cotswolds, passing through picturesque villages and towns.
This route is part of the National Cycle Network and offers a blend of traffic-free paths and quiet country lanes. Cyclists will experience a variety of terrains, including some unsealed sections that may be challenging during adverse weather conditions. The journey includes scenic views of the English countryside, making it a rewarding choice for experienced cyclists.
Route 2: Via A466
- Distance: Approximately 162 miles
- Estimated Time: Around 14 hours and 16 minutes
- Elevation: Ascend 3,914 ft; Descend 3,996 ft
- Terrain: Primarily roadways with some restricted or private sections
- Notable Places: The route passes through Monmouth and Tintern, offering views of the Wye Valley and the historic Tintern Abbey.
This longer route follows the A466, taking cyclists through the scenic Wye Valley. While the route offers beautiful landscapes and historic sites, it includes sections with restricted access or private roads, requiring careful planning. The elevation changes, and longer distances make this route more suitable for seasoned cyclists seeking a comprehensive tour of the region.
Route 3: Via National Cycle Route 5
- Distance: Approximately 135 miles
- Estimated Time: Around 11 hours and 58 minutes
- Elevation: Ascend 3,766 ft; Descend 3,848 ft
- Terrain: Combination of traffic-free paths and on-road sections
- Notable Places: The route passes through Oxford, which is known for its historic university and architecture.
National Cycle Route 5 offers a balanced mix of traffic-free paths and on-road cycling, guiding riders through the heart of England. The journey includes visiting Oxford, providing an opportunity to explore its rich history and culture. Cyclists should be aware of ongoing construction works in certain areas, which may affect accessibility and require detours.
Each route from Hereford to Windsor Castle offers a unique cycling experience, catering to different preferences and skill levels. Cyclists should consider factors such as distance, terrain, elevation, and points of interest when selecting the most suitable path for their journey.
