Get to Windsor Castle From Wolverhampton

Key Points

• Windsor Castle is approximately 128 to 134 miles (206 to 216 kilometres) from Wolverhampton by car, depending on the chosen route.
• Travelling from Wolverhampton to Windsor Castle can be done by car, train, or even bicycle, with several routes available depending on your preferences for speed, comfort, and scenery.
• By car, the most efficient and commonly used route is via the M40, taking approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes under ideal conditions and covering 133 miles, though it does include toll roads. Alternatively, the M5/M40 route avoids lengthy tolls with minimal time loss, and the M6/M1 option, while the longest at nearly 3 hours, may be useful during delays on the M40 corridor.
• By train, the fastest route takes around 2 hours and 44 minutes, combining a CrossCountry service to Reading, a GWR train to Slough, and a short final leg to Windsor & Eton Central, followed by a brief walk to the castle. Other rail routes via Birmingham, Stafford, or London offer viable alternatives depending on schedules and comfort with transfers.
• For cyclists, the B4100 route offers the quickest ride at approximately 10 hours and 45 minutes, though National Cycle Route 6 and the Oxford Canal Walk provide more scenic alternatives over roughly 12 hours.
• Overall, the best option for most travellers is by car via the M40 for directness and control or by train via Reading and Slough for a stress-free journey without driving or parking hassles.

Routes Comparison Tables

🚗 Car Routes Comparison

Route	Duration (Ideal)	Distance	Toll Roads	Notable Roads Used
Via M40 (Route 1)	2h 29m	133 mi	Yes	M6 Toll, M42, M40, A404, M4, A355
Via M5 & M40 (Route 2)	2h 33m	128 mi	Partial	M6, M5, M42, M40, A404, M4, A355
Via M6 & M1 (Route 3)	2h 56m	134 mi	No	M6, M1, M25, M4, B470

Notes:

• Route 1 is fastest but involves tolls (M6 Toll).
• Route 2 is slightly longer in time but avoids the full M6 Toll stretch.
• Route 3 avoids the M40 corridor altogether, useful in case of delays.

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🚆 Train Routes Comparison

Route	Duration	Transfers	Final Walk	Highlights
Birmingham → Reading → Slough (R1)	3h 10m–3h 25m	3	0.3 mi	Common, frequent departures
Stafford → Euston → Vauxhall (R2)	~3h 4m	3	0.4 mi	Fast Euston train; uses London Underground
Birmingham → Slough + Bus (R3)	~3h 16m	3 + Bus	0.1 mi	Final leg by local bus instead of train
Direct to Reading (R4)	~3h 4m	2	0.3 mi	Fewer changes, long single train stretch
CrossCountry to Reading + Paddington	2h 44m	2	0.3 mi	Fastest option, minimal stops, good timing

Notes:

• Route 5 is the fastest by train.
• Route 2 offers London connections but requires Tube navigation.
• Route 4 minimizes transfer hassle.

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🚴 Cycling Routes Comparison

Route Name	Distance	Duration	Elevation Gain	Terrain/Notes
Via B4100	126 mi	~10h 45m	2,106 ft	Direct road route, moderate climbs, busy roads
National Cycle Route 6	141 mi	~12h 18m	1,775 ft	Signposted, scenic, varied terrain
Oxford Canal Walk	141 mi	~12h	1,690 ft	Flat, scenic, can be rough/muddy

Notes:

• B4100 is quickest but on main roads.
• NCR 6 is more recreational and scenic.
• Oxford Canal Walk is peaceful but potentially muddy.

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Getting to Windsor Castle From Wolverhampton By Car

Route 1: Via M40

This route takes approximately 2 hours 29 minutes under ideal conditions and covers a distance of 133 miles. Please be aware that this route has tolls, and the fastest route may vary due to traffic conditions.

Directions:

1. Start in Wolverhampton:
   • Head west on Princes Square toward Princess Street (154 feet).
   • At the roundabout, continue straight onto Stafford Street (0.3 miles).
   • Turn right onto Cannock Road (A460) (1.0 mile).
   • At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and stay on Cannock Road (A460) (0.5 miles).
   • At the following roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on Cannock Road (A460) (0.5 miles).
   • At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on Cannock Road (A460) (2.0 miles).
   • Take the 2nd exit at Featherstone Interchange and continue on Cannock Road (A460) (1.7 miles).
   • At Laney Green Interchange, take the 2nd exit and stay on A460 (0.6 miles).
   • At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the M6 ramp to Burntwood (0.5 miles). Note: This is a toll road.
2. On the M6 Toll:
   • Continue on the M6 Toll. Take the M40 toward London/Warwick/Stratford (1 hour 44 minutes, 108 miles).
   • Merge onto M6 Toll (21.7 miles).
   • Keep left to continue on M42, following signs for The S W/M5/London (S&W)/M40/Coventry (S&W)/Birmingham (S)/N.E.C/Airport (12.1 miles).
   • At Junction 3A, use the left 2 lanes to merge onto M40 toward London/Warwick/Stratford (74.2 miles).
   • At Junction 4, take the A404 exit toward High Wycombe/Marlow/M4/Maidenhead (0.3 miles).
   • Use the right 2 lanes to take the ramp to A404 (230 feet).
3. On the A404:
   • Continue towards Berkshire (9 minutes, 7.3 miles).
   • Take the 2nd exit onto A404 (4.4 miles) at Handy Cross Roundabout.
   • At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on A404 (3.0 miles).
4. On the A404(M) and M4:
   • Follow A404(M) and M4 to A355 in Slough (8 minutes, 7.4 miles).
   • Keep right to continue on A404(M), following signs for Reading/Slough/Windsor/M4 (2.5 miles).
   • Use the middle lane to turn slightly left onto Holyport Interchange (322 feet).
   • Use the middle lane to take the M4 exit toward London (0.2 miles).
   • Slight right to merge onto M4 (4.4 miles).
   • Take the exit toward A355 (0.3 miles).
5. On the A355:
   • Continue on A355. Take Royal Windsor Way (A332) and Clarence Road to Castle Hill in Windsor (8 minutes, 2.8 miles).
   • At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A355 (0.5 miles).
   • Continue onto Royal Windsor Way (A332) (1.2 miles).
   • Slight left onto Clarence Road (0.5 miles).
   • Continue onto Victoria Street (0.3 miles).
   • 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 days.
   • Turn right onto Castle Hill (266 feet).
6. Arrival:
   • You have now reached Windsor Castle.

This route provides a convenient and efficient way to reach Windsor Castle, although the presence of tolls and varying traffic conditions should be kept in mind while planning your journey.

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Route 2: Via M5 and M40

This alternative route from Wolverhampton to Windsor Castle takes approximately 2 hours 33 minutes under ideal conditions and covers a distance of 128 miles. Although slightly longer in duration compared to Route 1, it may be preferable depending on traffic conditions and toll considerations.

Directions:

1. Start in Wolverhampton:
   • Head west on Princes Square toward Princess Street (154 feet).
   • At the roundabout, continue straight onto Stafford Street (0.1 mile).
   • Turn right onto Ring Road Saint Patricks (A4150) and continue (0.4 miles).
   • Turn left onto Horseley Fields (A454) and continue to follow A454 (2.3 miles).
   • Take the 2nd exit onto The Keyway (A454) (1.0 mile) at the roundabout.
   • At Keyway Junction, take the 2nd exit onto the A454 ramp to Walsall/Birmingham/M6/Stafford (0.2 miles).
   • Merge onto Black Country Route (A454) (1.3 miles).
   • Take the 4th exit onto the M6 ramp at the roundabout to Birmingham/M5 (0.5 miles).
2. On the M6, M5 and M40:
   • Merge onto M6 (2.4 miles).
   • At Junction 8, take the M5 exit to Birmingham (West)/Birmingham (South)/West Bromwich (1.5 miles).
   • Continue onto M5 (14.8 miles).
   • Take the M42 exit toward London/M40/N.E.C. & Airport (0.6 miles).
   • Use the right lane to take the ramp onto M42 (10.9 miles).
   • Keep right to continue on M40, following signs for London/Warwick/Stratford (74.3 miles).
   • At Junction 4, take the A404 exit to High Wycombe/Marlow/M4/Maidenhead (0.3 miles).
   • Use the right 2 lanes to take the ramp to A404 (230 feet).
3. On the A404:
   • Continue toward Berkshire (9 minutes, 7.3 miles).
   • Take the 2nd exit onto A404 (4.4 miles) at Handy Cross Roundabout.
   • At the following roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on A404 (3.0 miles).
4. On A404(M) and M4:
   • Follow A404(M) and M4 to A355 in Slough (8 minutes, 7.4 miles).
   • Keep right to continue on A404(M), following signs for Reading/Slough/Windsor/M4 (2.5 miles).
   • Use the middle lane to turn slightly left onto Holyport Interchange (322 feet).
   • Use the middle lane to take the M4 exit toward London (0.2 miles).
   • Slight right to merge onto M4 (4.4 miles).
   • Take the exit toward A355 (0.3 miles).
5. Final Approach into Windsor:
   • Continue on A355. Take Royal Windsor Way (A332) and Clarence Road to Castle Hill in Windsor (8 minutes, 2.8 miles).
   • At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A355 (0.5 miles).
   • Continue onto Royal Windsor Way (A332) (1.2 miles).
   • Slight left onto Clarence Road. Note: Go through 1 roundabout (0.5 miles).
   • Continue onto Victoria Street (0.3 miles).
   • At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Sheet Street (B3022) (0.2 miles).
     Be aware: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or on certain days.
   • Turn right onto Castle Hill (266 feet).
6. Arrival:
   • You have now reached Windsor Castle.

This route is a viable alternative, offering a slightly shorter distance with a minimal difference in time. It may also be preferable for those looking to avoid longer stretches of toll roads while still enjoying major motorway travel for a smoother drive.

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Route 3: Via M6 and M1

This third option for travelling from Wolverhampton to Windsor Castle takes approximately 2 hours and 56 minutes in ideal conditions, covering a distance of around 134 miles. While this is the longest route in both time and mileage compared to Routes 1 and 2, it may prove useful during incidents or delays along the M40 corridor and avoids the M42 entirely.

Directions:

1. Starting from Wolverhampton:
   • Head west on Princes Square toward Princess Street (154 feet).
   • At the roundabout, continue straight onto Stafford Street (0.1 mile).
   • Turn right onto Ring Road Saint Patricks (A4150) and continue (0.4 miles).
   • Turn left onto Horseley Fields (A454) and continue to follow A454 (2.3 miles).
   • Take the 2nd exit onto The Keyway (A454) (1.0 mile) at the roundabout.
   • At Keyway Junction, take the 2nd exit onto the A454 ramp to Walsall/Birmingham/M6/Stafford (0.2 miles).
   • Merge onto Black Country Route (A454) (1.3 miles).
   • Take the 4th exit onto the M6 ramp at the roundabout to Birmingham/M5 (0.5 miles).
2. Along the M6, M1, and M25:
   • Merge onto the M6 (18.4 miles).
   • Keep right to stay on M6 (21.6 miles).
   • Take the exit toward M1 (1.0 mile).
   • Slight right to merge onto the M1 (61.2 miles).
   • At Junction 6A, use the 3rd lane from the left to take the M25 exit to M40/M4/Heathrow Airport (0.8 mile).
   • Use the right lane to take the ramp onto M25 (18.8 miles).
   • At Junction 15, use the left 2 lanes to merge onto the M4 toward Slough (2.2 miles).
   • Take the A4 exit toward Colnbrook/B470/Datchet/Langley (0.3 mile).
3. Into Windsor via B470:
   • At Langley Roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Major’s Farm Road (B470) (1.7 miles).
   • At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto London Road (B376/B470) (210 feet).
   • At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto High Street (B470) (0.2 mile).
   • Turn right onto Windsor Road (B470) (1.4 miles).
   • Turn left onto Thames Street (B3022) (0.2 mile).
     Note: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or on certain days.
   • Turn left onto Castle Hill (266 feet).
4. Arrival:
   • You have now reached Windsor Castle.

This route offers an alternative way into Windsor from the north-east side, avoiding the A404 and M40 corridors altogether. It may appeal to drivers more comfortable with the M1 or those travelling from or through the East Midlands area en route to Windsor.

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Getting to Windsor Castle From Wolverhampton by Train

Travelling from Wolverhampton to Windsor Castle by train involves at least one change, often several, depending on the selected route. The total journey time typically ranges between 2 hours 44 minutes and 3 hours 25 minutes, with various changes, waiting times, and walking transfers contributing to the variation in travel durations. All routes require a final short walk (or, in one case, a bus ride) from the train station to the castle.

Route 1: Via Birmingham, Reading, and Slough (Multiple departures)

Journey time: Approximately 3 hr 10 min to 3 hr 25 min

• This is one of the more common and straightforward routes, with connections through Birmingham New Street, Reading, and Slough before arriving at Windsor & Eton Central.
• The journey begins with a short leg from Wolverhampton to Birmingham, followed by a longer stretch (around 1 hour 40 minutes) on a direct service to Reading.
• From Reading, travellers continue on the Elizabeth line to Slough (around 22 minutes), then transfer to a short local train (6 minutes) to Windsor & Eton Central.
• Final walking distance to Windsor Castle is approximately 0.3 miles, or a 7-minute walk.
• Differences in departure times and minor variances in stop patterns account for journey times fluctuating between 3 hours 10 minutes and 3 hours 25 minutes.

Route 2: Via Stafford, London Euston, and Vauxhall

Journey time: Approximately 3 hr 4 min

• This route begins with a fast, direct leg from Wolverhampton to Stafford (14 minutes), followed by a non-stop express service to London Euston (1 hour 17 minutes).
• From Euston, there’s a short walk to the Underground, where the Victoria line takes passengers to Vauxhall Station (about 11 minutes).
• From Vauxhall, a direct South Western Railway service to Windsor & Eton Riverside takes approximately 49 minutes, passing through 12 stops.
• The final walk to the castle is slightly longer, about 0.4 miles or 10 minutes.
• This route offers one of the shortest total travel times, as it benefits from high-speed services with fewer transfers, though it involves navigating the London Underground.

Route 3: Via Birmingham, Reading, and Slough + Bus Transfer

Journey time: Approximately 3 hr 16 min

• Similar to Route 1, this journey passes through Birmingham, Reading, and Slough.
• However, instead of taking the short train ride to Windsor & Eton Central, this option involves a local bus (Bus 8) from Slough to Windsor Parish Church, followed by a 2-minute walk to the castle.
• While travel times are only slightly longer, using the bus rather than the train for the final leg might be preferable for those with specific stop preferences or if train service is disrupted.

Route 4: Direct CrossCountry Service to Reading

Journey time: Approximately 3 hr 4 min

• This is a relatively simple route with a long, direct train ride from Wolverhampton to Reading (2 hours 6 minutes) with 7 stops.
• From Reading, it follows the now-familiar pattern: Elizabeth line to Slough (22 minutes), followed by a 6-minute train to Windsor & Eton Central.
• This route minimises the number of transfers, which makes it more convenient for travellers carrying luggage or seeking a smoother experience.

Route 5: CrossCountry to Reading with Paddington Connection

Journey time: Approximately 2 hr 44 min (fastest observed)

• Begins with a CrossCountry train to Reading (1 hour 58 minutes), followed by a GWR service to London Paddington (19 minutes), which stops at Slough en route.
• From Slough, the short ride to Windsor & Eton Central and the 7-minute walk to the castle remain the same.
• The quicker journey is thanks to faster services and fewer intermediate stops, making it the most time-efficient of all routes listed.

Summary of Travel Durations and Factors

• Shortest journey: 2 hr 44 min, using fast regional services and minimal transfers.
• Longest journey: 3 hr 25 min, involving more stops and changes, especially at regional stations.
• Main factors affecting travel time:
  • Number of stops and changes.
  • Walking time between platforms or stations.
  • Waiting times between train connections.
  • Whether the final leg is taken by train or bus.
  • Use of London Underground vs above-ground transfers.

All routes involve a degree of flexibility, and travellers should choose based on their preferences for fewer changes, shorter walking distances, or more scenic/train-based travel.

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Getting to Windsor Castle From Wolverhampton By Cycle

Cycling from Wolverhampton to Windsor Castle offers several route options, each with distinct characteristics regarding distance, elevation changes, and terrain. Below is an overview of the primary routes:​

1. Via B4100

• Distance: Approximately 126 miles​
• Estimated Duration: Around 10 hours and 45 minutes​
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,106 feet​
• Elevation Loss: Approximately 2,510 feet​
• Highest Point: 548 feet​
• Lowest Point: 26 feet​

Route Overview:

This route primarily follows the B4100 road, providing a direct path with moderate elevation changes. Cyclists should be prepared for varying traffic conditions, as the B4100 is a popular motorist route. It’s advisable to check for any roadworks or closures along this route before setting out.​

2. Via National Cycle Route 6

• Distance: Approximately 141 miles​
• Estimated Duration: Around 12 hours and 18 minutes​
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,775 feet​
• Elevation Loss: Approximately 2,178 feet​
• Highest Point: 548 feet​
• Lowest Point: 49 feet

Route Overview:

National Cycle Route 6 is part of the National Cycle Network, offering a combination of traffic-free paths and on-road sections. This route takes you through various towns and cities, including Derby and Beeston, before heading through Sherwood Forest to Worksop and onto Sheffield via the Rother Valley Country Park. The route is well-signposted, but cyclists should be aware of potential diversions or sections under development.

3. Via Oxford Canal Walk

• Distance: Approximately 141 miles​
• Estimated Duration: Around 12 hours​
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,690 feet​
• Elevation Loss: Approximately 2,093 feet​
• Highest Point: 548 feet​
• Lowest Point: 49 feet​

Route Overview:

The Oxford Canal Walk offers a scenic journey along the canal, beginning at Hythe Bridge near Oxford city centre and extending north through Banbury to Coventry. This tranquil route is perfect for enjoying nature and observing canal boats. However, the path can become rougher from Wolvercote onwards and may be muddy after rainfall. Cyclists should be prepared for these conditions and check for any path closures or maintenance work along the canal.

General Considerations:

• Terrain and Elevation: Each route presents different elevation profiles. The B4100 route has more significant elevation changes, while the canal paths offer flatter terrain but may have rough or muddy sections.​
• Surface Conditions: Canal paths may be less maintained compared to roads, leading to potential challenges such as uneven surfaces or overgrown vegetation.​
• Access Restrictions: Certain sections, especially near Windsor Castle, may have restrictions on cycling. Notably, cycling is not permitted on the Long Walk leading up to Windsor Castle.
• Facilities and Stops: Plan your journey to include rest stops, accommodation, and food supplies, especially for longer routes. Towns like Banbury and Oxford offer various amenities along the way.​
• Safety and Navigation: Utilise detailed maps or GPS devices to navigate, as some routes may lack clear signage. Always wear appropriate safety gear and adhere to traffic regulations.​

Embarking on a cycling journey from Wolverhampton to Windsor Castle requires thorough preparation. Assess each route’s characteristics and current conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

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Conclusion

Travelling from Wolverhampton to Windsor Castle offers a range of options suited to different needs and preferences. Whether opting for the directness and control of driving—most efficiently via the M40—or choosing the convenience of rail travel through Reading and Slough, each method has its advantages. Cyclists seeking a long-distance adventure can enjoy scenic routes such as the B4100 or the Oxford Canal Walk. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities—be it speed, comfort, cost, or the journey experience itself.

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