Get to Windsor Castle From Luton

Key Points

• Windsor Castle is approximately 37.3 miles (60.0 km) from Luton via the M25, 35.7 miles (57.5 km) via the A416 and A355, and 39.3 miles (63.3 km) via the A412. You have several options by car or train to get from Luton to Windsor Castle.
• By car, the fastest and most direct route is via the M25, taking around 1 hour 25 minutes over approximately 60 km. This route uses major motorways (M1, M25, and M4) with a straightforward final approach via the B470 into Windsor.
• A more scenic alternative, taking about 1 hour 40 minutes, travels via the A416 and A355 through Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire countryside. Another longer yet viable car route, about 1 hour 45 minutes, follows the A412, passing through areas like Hemel Hempstead and Uxbridge before reaching Windsor.
• If you prefer public transport, train journeys take between 1 hour 46 minutes and just over 2 hours, typically involving Thameslink to Farringdon, the Elizabeth line to Slough, and a GWR train to Windsor & Eton Central, followed by a short walk. The fastest train option can take around 1 hour 51 minutes if connections are swift.
• Overall, the best option is to drive via the M25 for speed and ease, though the train provides a comfortable, reliable alternative without the stress of navigating traffic or parking.

Comparison Tables for Routes from Luton to Windsor Castle

Car Routes

Route	Distance	Estimated Time	Features	Challenges
Route 1 (via M25)	37.3 mi	1 hr 25 min	Fast, direct, uses major motorways	Potential roadworks on M1, M25, or M4
Route 2 (via A416 & A355)	35.7 mi	1 hr 40 min	Scenic, passes through picturesque towns	Longer duration, more rural roads
Route 3 (via A412)	39.3 mi	1 hr 45 min	Alternative to motorways, mixed urban and rural roads	Longer duration, potential congestion

Train Routes

Route	Estimated Time	Changes	Walking Involved	Key Transfer Points
Route 1 (Farringdon & Slough)	1 hr 51-1 hr 58	2	Moderate	Farringdon, Slough
Route 2 (Paddington & Slough)	1 hr 46-1 hr 47	2	Moderate	Farringdon/St Pancras, Paddington
Route 3 (Vauxhall & Eton Riverside)	2 hr 9 min	2	Long	St Pancras, Vauxhall

Cycling Routes

Route	Distance	Estimated Time	Elevation Gain	Terrain
National Cycle Route 61	40.5 mi	3 hr 32 min	522 ft	Flat terrain, scenic paths, suitable for leisure
A1081 Route	44.9 mi	4 hr	686 ft	Busier roads, faster for experienced cyclists
B4506 Route	45.3 mi	3 hr 58 min	971 ft	Hilly terrain, challenging, scenic countryside

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Getting to Windsor Castle from Luton by Car

Route 1 via M25

If you’re planning to drive from Luton to Windsor Castle, one of the most efficient and commonly used routes is via the M25 motorway. This journey typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 37.3 miles (60.0 km) under standard traffic conditions. Below is a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of the journey.

Section 1: Luton to M1 (via A505 and A1081)

Estimated time: 7 minutes | Distance: 2.7 miles (4.3 km)

1. Start in Luton, UK.
2. Head southwest toward Stuart Street (A505) – 79 feet.
3. Turn left onto Stuart Street (A505) and continue – 0.2 miles.
4. Take the 3rd exit onto Castle Street at the roundabout – 0.4 miles.
5. Continue onto London Road – 0.8 miles.
6. At the London Road North Roundabout, take the 2nd exit to stay on London Road – 0.4 miles.
7. At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the New Airport Way (A1081) ramp to London/M1 – 0.2 miles.
8. Merge onto New Airport Way (A1081) – 0.2 miles.
9. Use the left lane to merge onto the M1 via the ramp to London – 0.5 miles.

Section 2: Continue on M1, then M25 to M4 and Exit at A4

Estimated time: 31 minutes | Distance: 31.1 miles (50.1 km)

10. Merge onto the M1 – 9.0 miles

⚠️ Note: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or on certain days.

11. At junction 6A, use the 2nd lane from the left to take the M25 exit toward M40/M4/Heathrow Airport – 0.8 miles.
12. Use the left lane to take the ramp onto M25 – 18.8 miles.
13. At junction 15, use the left 2 lanes to merge onto M4 toward Slough – 2.2 miles.
14. Take the A4 exit toward Colnbrook/B470/Datchet/Langley – 0.3 miles.

Section 3: From M4 to Windsor Castle via B470

Estimated time: 10 minutes | Distance: 3.6 miles (5.8 km)

15. Take the 2nd exit onto Major’s Farm Road (B470) at the Langley Roundabout – 1.7 miles.
16. At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto London Road (B376/B470) – 210 feet.
17. At the following roundabout, take the 1st exit onto High Street (B470) – 0.2 miles.
18. Turn right onto Windsor Road (B470) – 1.4 miles.
19. Turn left onto Thames Street (B3022) – 0.2 miles

⚠️ Note: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or on certain days.

20. Turn left onto Castle Hill – 266 feet.

Arrival: Windsor Castle

You have now reached Windsor Castle, located at the heart of Windsor. Be sure to check local parking facilities or drop-off zones nearby.

This route offers a fast and direct connection between Luton and Windsor, with easy access via major motorways, including the M1, M25, and M4. Be mindful of any roadworks or closures, particularly near the final approach into central Windsor.

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Route 2 via A416 and A355

If you prefer a more scenic alternative to the M25, travelling from Luton to Windsor Castle via the A416 and A355 offers a pleasant route through picturesque towns and countryside. This route typically takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 35.7 miles (57.5 km) under normal traffic conditions. Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide for this journey.

Section 1: Luton to Red Lion Lane (via B4540 and local roads)

Estimated time: 19 minutes | Distance: 7.6 miles (12.2 km)

1. Start in Luton, UK.
2. Head southwest toward Stuart Street (A505) – 79 feet.
3. Turn left onto Stuart Street (A505) – 0.2 miles.
4. Take the 3rd exit onto Castle Street at the roundabout – 0.4 miles.
5. Continue onto London Road – 0.2 miles.
6. Turn right onto Whitehill Avenue – 0.3 miles.
7. Turn left onto Farley Hill (B4540) – 0.5 miles.
8. Turn left onto Newlands Road (B4540) – 0.7 miles.
9. Turn right onto Church Road (B4540) and continue – 2.1 miles.
10. Turn left onto A5183 – 0.3 miles.
11. Turn right onto Hicks Road – 0.1 miles.
12. Turn right onto High Street – 39 feet.
13. Turn left onto Pickford Road – 1.5 miles.
14. Continue onto Puddephat’s Lane – 0.7 miles.
15. Turn right – 0.5 miles.
16. Turn left onto Gaddesden Row – 0.1 miles.
17. Turn right onto Red Lion Lane – 1.8 miles.

Section 2: From Red Lion Lane to Windsor (via A416, A355, and A332)

Estimated time: 1 hour 2 minutes | Distance: 26.3 miles (42.3 km)

1. Turn right onto Leighton Buzzard Road (B440) – 0.2 miles.
2. Turn left onto Nettleden Road – 0.9 miles.
3. Turn left to stay on Nettleden Road – 1.6 miles.
4. Continue onto Gravel Path – 0.7 miles.
5. Continue onto Ravens Lane – 312 feet.
6. Turn right onto Chapel Street – 200 feet.
7. Turn left onto Manor Street – 0.1 miles.
8. Turn right onto High Street (A4251) – 0.1 miles.
9. Turn left onto Chesham Road – 0.7 miles.
10. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Chesham Road (A416) – 0.3 miles.
11. At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and continue on Chesham Road (A416) – 2.8 miles.
12. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Berkhampstead Road (A416) – 0.6 miles.
13. At The Elgiva Roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto St Mary’s Way (A416) – 0.2 miles.
14. At Lowndes Park Roundabout, take the 2nd exit to stay on St Mary’s Way (A416) – 0.2 miles.
15. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Red Lion Street (A416) – 0.2 miles.
16. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Amersham Road (A416) – 1.6 miles.
17. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Chesham Road (A416) – 0.2 miles.
18. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Sycamore Road (A416) – 0.1 miles.
19. Go through 1 roundabout.
20. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Station Road (A416) – 489 feet.
21. At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit to stay on Station Road (A416) – 0.7 miles.
22. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto London Road West (A355) – 0.2 miles.
23. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Gore Hill (A355) – 0.1 miles.
24. At Gore Hill Roundabout, continue straight to stay on Gore Hill (A355) – 3.9 miles.
25. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Beaconsfield Eastern Relief Road (Bowl Barrow Way/A355) – 0.5 miles.
26. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Bowl Barrow Way (A355) – 0.2 miles.
27. Go through 1 roundabout.
28. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto A355 – 0.5 miles.
29. Take the 2nd exit at Beaconsfield Interchange to stay on A355 – 4.2 miles.
30. Take the 2nd exit at the roundabout to stay on A355 – 167 feet.
31. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Farnham Road (A355) – 0.5 miles.
32. At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit to stay on Farnham Road (A355) – 1.9 miles.
33. At the following roundabout, take the 2nd exit to remain on A355 – 0.5 miles.
34. Continue onto Royal Windsor Way (A332) – 1.2 miles.
35. Slight left onto Clarence Road – 0.5 miles (go through 1 roundabout).
36. Continue onto Victoria Street – 0.3 miles.
37. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Sheet Street (B3022) – 0.2 miles

⚠️ Note: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or on certain days.

• Turn right onto Castle Hill – 266 feet.

Arrival: Windsor Castle

You have now reached Windsor Castle, a historic royal residence located in the heart of Windsor. Be sure to plan ahead for local parking or drop-off areas, especially during peak visitor times.

This alternative route via the A416 and A355 is slightly longer in duration than the M25 option but can be a great choice if you wish to avoid motorways or explore a more rural journey through Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

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Route 3: Via A412

This alternative route from Luton to Windsor Castle takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes under typical traffic conditions, covering a distance of approximately 63.3 kilometres (39.3 miles).

Step-by-step directions:

Start: Luton, UK

• Head southwest towards Stuart Street (A505) (4 sec / 24 m)

1. From Luton to Hemel Hempstead area (approx. 1 hr 24 min / 63.1 km)

• Turn left onto Stuart Street (A505) and continue for 0.3 km
• At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Castle Street: 0.6 km
• Continue onto London Road: 1.3 km
• At London Rd North Roundabout, take the 2nd exit and continue on London Road: 0.6 km
• At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto London Road (A1081): 3.9 km
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto The Common: 0.8 km
• Turn left onto Kinsbourne Green Lane: 2.1 km
• Continue onto Luton Lane: 0.8 km
• Turn left onto A5183: 1.3 km
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit to remain on A5183: 1.0 km
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto B487: 1.4 km
• B487 becomes Hemel Hempstead Road: 3.4 km
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Link Road (A4147): 0.6 km
• At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit and continue on A4147: 1.6 km
• At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Leighton Buzzard Road (A4146): 1.0 km
• At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on A4146: 1.3 km
• At the Plough Roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Two Waters Road (A414): 1.3 km
• At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the A41 slip road towards London/Watford/M25: 0.5 km
• Merge onto the A41: 4.3 km
• Take the 3rd exit onto Watford Road (A41) at Kings Langley Interchange: 1.1 km
• Turn right onto Langleybury Lane: 2.4 km
• Turn right onto Fir Tree Hill: 1.1 km
• Continue onto Redhall Lane: 1.0 km
• Turn left onto Sarratt Road: 1.4 km
• Slight right to remain on Sarratt Road: 0.3 km
• Continue straight onto The Green: 0.8 km

2. Join A412 and head to Windsor

• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Scots Hill (A412): 1.0 km
• At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Park Road (A412): 0.5 km
• At the following roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Rectory Road (A412): 0.5 km
• At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Uxbridge Road (A412): 2.3 km
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Denham Way/N Orbital Road (A412): 7.1 km
• Slight left toward Oxford Road (A40): 60 m
• Use the right lane to turn slightly left onto Oxford Road (A40): 0.8 km
• Keep right to stay on Oxford Road: 43 m
• At Denham Roundabout, take the 2nd exit: 0.5 km
• At the next roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Denham Road (A412): 0.8 km
• At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Southlands Road (A412): 1.8 km
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Church Road (A412): 1.1 km
• At Five Points Roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Uxbridge Road (A412): 2.9 km
• Continue straight to stay on Uxbridge Road (A412), then use the middle lane to turn slightly left: 0.1 km
• Continue on Uxbridge Road (A412): 0.8 km
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Datchet Road (B376), 2.4 km
• Slight right onto Mays Crossing: 25 m
• Turn right onto Queen’s Road: 0.2 km
• Turn right onto Windsor Road (B470): 2.1 km
• Turn left onto Thames Street (B3022) (Note: This road may be closed at certain times/days): 0.3 km
• Turn left onto Castle Hill: 0.1 km

End: Windsor Castle

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Getting to Windsor Castle from Luton by Train

Travelling from Luton to Windsor Castle by train involves several route options, all requiring at least one change and some walking. Journey durations vary depending on the route, transfer efficiency, and connection waiting times. The approximate journey time ranges from 1 hour 46 minutes to just over 2 hours.

Below is a detailed overview of all the available routes, their travel times, transfers, and reasons for the variation in overall journey duration:

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Route 1: Via Farringdon, Slough, and Windsor & Eton Central

Approximate journey time: 1 hr 51 min to 1 hr 58 min

• This route uses the Thameslink service from Luton to Farringdon, then a change to the Elizabeth line to Slough, followed by a Great Western Railway (GWR) train to Windsor & Eton Central, and finally a short walk to the castle.
• Travel times vary slightly depending on waiting times at Slough and Farringdon.
• The quickest variation (1 hr 51 min) involves minimal waiting between trains, with just 1 minute between arrival and departure at each change.
• The slightly longer option (1 hr 58 min) includes a 6-minute walk to a bus stop in Slough and a short bus journey instead of a final train leg. This results in a longer travel time despite similar initial rail segments.

Why times vary: The primary difference lies in the mode of travel from Slough to Windsor – train vs. bus – and the time spent waiting for the next connection at each interchange.

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Route 2: Via Paddington, Slough, and Windsor & Eton Central

Approximate journey time: 1 hr 46 min to 1 hr 47 min

• Another efficient route involves travelling from Luton to Farringdon or St Pancras, then transferring to the Elizabeth line or taking the Circle/Hammersmith & City line to Paddington.
• From Paddington, a GWR service to Slough is followed by a quick change to the Windsor & Eton Central train.
• The route from Farringdon to Paddington via the Elizabeth line is shorter and more direct than St Pancras and the Underground. Still, both result in a similarly timed overall journey.
• Walking transfers between London stations (around 2–7 minutes) can impact timings, but these are generally quick.

Why times vary: Differences arise due to transfer walking times in central London and platform-to-platform navigation, which can slightly affect the total journey time.

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Route 3: Via Vauxhall and Windsor & Eton Riverside

Approximate journey time: 2 hr 9 min

• This longer route starts similarly with Thameslink from Luton to St Pancras, followed by a short walk to the Victoria Line Underground at King’s Cross.
• After alighting at Vauxhall, travellers board a South Western Railway service directly to Windsor & Eton Riverside.
• The walk from this station to Windsor Castle is a bit longer (about 10 minutes) compared to routes arriving at Windsor & Eton Central.

Why it takes longer: This journey involves more Underground stops, a longer final train leg with 12 stops, and an extended walk to the castle. Additionally, waiting times between each connection tend to be slightly longer.

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Summary of Key Factors Affecting Journey Time

• Transfer Points: Routes with fewer transfer stations tend to be quicker.
• Waiting Time Between Trains: Even a couple of minutes’ delay in connecting services can increase total journey time.
• Transport Modes: Routes incorporating a bus segment or longer underground journeys naturally take longer.
• Walking Distances: Transfers between major London stations (e.g., from St Pancras to King’s Cross or Paddington) involve short walks that, while minor, add to the total duration.

Travel from Luton to Windsor Castle by train typically takes between 1 hour 46 minutes and 2 hours 9 minutes, depending on the route and transfer efficiency. The most efficient options involve changing at Farringdon and Slough, while routes via Vauxhall tend to be longer due to more stops and transfers. All journeys require some walking and at least two changes, so careful planning and checking current service times is advisable.

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Cycling Routes from Luton to Windsor Castle

Embarking on a cycling journey from Luton to Windsor Castle offers a delightful mix of urban landscapes, serene countryside, and historic landmarks. Below are three recommended routes, each with its unique features and challenges.

1. Via National Cycle Route 61 (Approximately 3 hours 32 minutes, 40.5 miles)

This route predominantly follows National Cycle Route 61, offering a blend of traffic-free paths and quiet roads. Starting from Luton, the path meanders through picturesque towns such as St Albans, Hatfield, Welwyn Garden City, and Hertford. The journey includes sections like the Alban Way and the Lee Valley, providing scenic views and a relatively flat terrain, making it suitable for cyclists seeking a leisurely ride.

Notable landmarks along this route include the historic city of St Albans, known for its cathedral and Roman heritage, and the tranquil Jubilee River near Maidenhead. The final stretch leads you through Windsor Great Park, culminating at the majestic Windsor Castle.

Elevation Details:

• Total Ascent: 522 ft
• Total Descent: 814 ft
• Maximum Elevation: 413 ft
• Minimum Elevation: 59 ft

2. Via A1081 (Approximately 4 hours, 44.9 miles)

This route takes you along the A1081, a more direct path that passes through towns like Harpenden and St Albans. While it involves cycling on busier roads, it offers a faster alternative for experienced cyclists comfortable with vehicular traffic.

Key sights include the vibrant town centres of Harpenden and St Albans, offering opportunities for rest and refreshments. As you approach Windsor, the route provides glimpses of the River Thames and the surrounding countryside.

Elevation Details:

• Total Ascent: 686 ft
• Total Descent: 978 ft
• Maximum Elevation: 413 ft
• Minimum Elevation: 59 ft

3. Via B4506 (Approximately 3 hours 58 minutes, 45.3 miles)

For those seeking a more challenging ride, the B4506 route offers hilly terrains and scenic countryside views. This path takes you through Dunstable Downs and the Chiltern Hills, known for their natural beauty and panoramic vistas.

Highlights of this route include the Dunstable Downs, offering expansive views over Bedfordshire, and the charming villages nestled within the Chilterns. As you near Windsor, the route converges with quieter roads leading directly to the castle.

Elevation Details:

• Total Ascent: 971 ft
• Total Descent: 1,263 ft
• Maximum Elevation: 656 ft
• Minimum Elevation: 59 ft

Note: Before embarking on these routes, ensure your bicycle is in good condition, and always wear appropriate safety gear. It’s also advisable to check local traffic and weather conditions and any potential road closures or diversions that may affect your journey.

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