Get to Windsor Castle From Norwich

March 26, 2025| April 21, 2025

J. Shaw 22 min read

Key Points

Windsor Castle is approximately 134 to 145 miles from Norwich, depending on the chosen route. The best way to get to Windsor Castle from Norwich depends on personal preference.
The fastest and most efficient route is by train via London Liverpool Street. This journey takes approximately 3 hours 13 minutes, involving a transfer at Slough where a direct train runs to Windsor & Eton Central.
Driving via the A11 and M25 is the quickest road option, taking around 2 hours 57 minutes under optimal traffic conditions. This route follows the A11, merging onto the M25 and then the M4 before reaching Windsor.
Alternatively, cycling is possible via National Cycle Route 13, but at 12 hours and 15 minutes, it is a strenuous and time-consuming option.
The train is recommended for its reliability and avoidance of motorway traffic, offering a stress-free and comfortable journey.

Routes Comparison Table

Mode of Transport	Route	Distance	Estimated Travel Time	Key Roads/Rail Lines	Potential Challenges
Car	Via A11	143 miles	~2 hours 57 minutes	A11, A14, A505, A1(M), M25, M4	Possible road closures on Sheet Street, M25 congestion
Car	Via A11 and M25	145 miles	~3 hours	A11, M11, M25, M4	Heavy traffic on M25, parking near Windsor Castle
Car	Via A11 and A505	134 miles	~3 hours 3 minutes	A11, A505, A1(M), M25, M4	Road closures near Windsor, possible delays at junctions
Train	Via London Liverpool Street	Varies	~3 hours 13 minutes – 3 hours 25 minutes	Norwich – London Liverpool Street (Greater Anglia), Elizabeth Line to Slough, GWR to Windsor & Eton Central	Train delays, station transfer times, off-peak vs peak times
Train	Via Cambridge and Farringdon	Varies	~3 hours 51 minutes – 3 hours 56 minutes	Norwich – Cambridge (Greater Anglia), Cambridge – Farringdon (Thameslink), Elizabeth Line to Slough, GWR to Windsor & Eton Central	More transfers, waiting times between trains, bus option at Slough
Cycle	National Cycle Route 13	142 miles	~12 hours 15 minutes	National Cycle Route 13, B1172, Market Street, National Cycle Route 51, Grand Union Canal Walk	Steep climbs, road closures, navigation challenges in urban areas

Fastest car route: Via A11 (~2 hours 57 minutes, 143 miles)
Shortest car route: Via A11 and A505 (~134 miles, ~3 hours 3 minutes)
Fastest train route: Via London Liverpool Street (~3 hours 13 minutes)
Most challenging route: Cycling (~12 hours 15 minutes, 142 miles)
Most transfer-heavy train route: Via Cambridge and Farringdon (~3 hours 51 minutes – 3 hours 56 minutes)
Best option for fewer train changes: Via London Liverpool Street

Getting to Windsor Castle from Norwich by Car

Route 1: Via A11

Travelling from Norwich to Windsor Castle by car is a straightforward journey that covers approximately 143 miles and takes around 2 hours and 57 minutes under optimal traffic conditions. This is the fastest route available at present due to traffic conditions.

Step 1: Leaving Norwich

Begin your journey in Norwich and take the following roads to reach the A11:

Head north on Bank Plain towards Bank Street (400 ft)
Continue onto St Andrews Street (0.2 mi)
Turn right onto Duke Street (0.3 mi)
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto St Crispins Road/A147 (0.2 mi)
At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Barn Road/A147 and continue following A147 (0.5 mi)
Take the 3rd exit at the roundabout onto Convent Road/B1108 (0.1 mi)
Continue straight at the next roundabout onto Unthank Road (1.3 mi)
Turn left onto Judges Walk (0.2 mi)
Turn right onto Newmarket Road/A11 (1.5 mi)
At Round House Roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on Newmarket Road/A11 (0.3 mi)

Step 2: Taking the A11 and A14

Continue on the A11, then merge onto major roads leading towards London:

At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Hethersett Bypass/A11 and follow A11 (13.3 mi)
Continue on A11 via London Road (9.8 mi) and Thetford Bypass (1.9 mi)
Proceed through Mundford Road Roundabout, staying on Thetford Bypass/A11 (1.4 mi)
Continue on London Road/A11 through various roundabouts (9.2 mi)
At Fiveways Roundabout, take the 3rd exit and stay on A11 (6.0 mi)
Merge onto Newmarket Bypass/A14 via the ramp (7.2 mi)
Slight left onto Newmarket Bypass/A11 and continue following A11 (8.4 mi)

Step 3: A505, A1(M), and M25

Take a slight left onto A505 (2.1 mi)
Continue through multiple roundabouts, staying on A505 (approx. 20 mi in total)
Merge onto A1(M) via the ramp towards London (20.4 mi)
At Junction 1, take the M25/A1081 exit for M1/Heathrow Airport (0.2 mi)
At Bignells Corner, take the 5th exit onto the M25 ramp to Heathrow Airport/Watford/M1 (0.8 mi)
Merge onto M25 (26.5 mi)
At Junction 15, use the left 2 lanes to merge onto M4 towards Slough (6.0 mi)
Exit at Junction 6 towards A355 (0.3 mi)

Step 4: Arriving in Windsor

Take Royal Windsor Way/A332 and continue (1.2 mi)
Slight left onto Clarence Road and pass through one 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 certain times.
Turn right onto Castle Hill (266 ft)

Final Destination: Windsor Castle

Upon arrival, you will find Windsor Castle at the heart of the town. Parking options are available nearby, with several car parks within walking distance of the castle.

This detailed step-by-step guide ensures a smooth drive from Norwich to Windsor Castle, making the most of the fastest route available.

Route 2: Via A11 and M25

One of the most efficient routes for travellers driving from Norwich to Windsor Castle is via the A11 and M25. This journey covers approximately 145 miles and takes around 3 hours under ideal traffic conditions.

From Norwich to the M11 in Cambridgeshire (1 hour 17 minutes, 66.1 miles)

Begin your journey in Norwich, UK.
Head north on Bank Plain toward Bank Street (400 ft).
Continue onto St Andrews Street (0.2 mi).
Turn right onto Duke Street (0.3 mi).
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto St Crispins Road/A147 (0.2 mi).
At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Barn Road/A147 and continue following A147 (0.5 mi).
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Chapelfield Road/A147 (0.4 mi).
At the next roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto St Stephens Road/A11 (0.2 mi).
Keep right to continue on Newmarket Road/A11, going through one roundabout (0.7 mi).
At the roundabout, continue straight to stay on Newmarket Road/A11 (1.9 mi).
At Round House Roundabout, take the 2nd exit to stay on Newmarket Road/A11 (0.3 mi).
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Hethersett Bypass/A11 and continue following A11 (13.3 mi).
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto London Road/A11 and continue following A11 (9.8 mi).
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Thetford Bypass/A11 (1.9 mi).
At Mundford Road Roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on Thetford Bypass/A11 (1.4 mi).
Take the 2nd exit at the roundabout and stay on Thetford Bypass/A11 (0.9 mi).
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto London Road/A11 and continue following A11 (9.2 mi).
Take the 3rd exit at Fiveways Roundabout and stay on A11 (6.0 mi).
Use the right 2 lanes to merge onto Newmarket Bypass/A14 via the ramp to London/A11/M11/The Midlands/Cambridge (7.2 mi).
Slight left onto Newmarket Bypass/A11 and continue following A11 (8.4 mi).
Keep right to stay on A11 (3.0 mi).

From M11 to M25 and Slough (1 hour 19 minutes, 75.1 miles)

Continue onto M11 following signs for London (1.6 mi).
Merge onto M11 (27.6 mi).
Use the 2nd lane from the left to take the M25 exit toward M1/Watford (0.7 mi).
Slight right to merge onto M25 (42.8 mi).
At Junction 15, use the left 2 lanes to merge onto M4 toward Slough (2.2 mi).
Take the A4 exit toward Colnbrook/B470/Datchet/Langley (0.3 mi).

From Slough to Windsor Castle (10 minutes, 3.6 miles)

At Langley Roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Major’s Farm Road/B470 (1.7 mi).
Take the 2nd exit onto London Road/B376/B470 (210 ft) at the roundabout.
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto High Street/B470 (0.2 mi).
Turn right onto Windsor Road/B470 (1.4 mi).
Turn left onto Thames Street/B3022 (0.2 mi). Note: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or days.
Turn left onto Castle Hill (266 ft).

Arrive at Windsor Castle.

Final Notes

This route provides a relatively straightforward journey, primarily via major motorways.
Traffic on the M25 can be heavy during peak hours, so consider checking live traffic updates before departure.
Parking near Windsor Castle can be limited; visitors should explore parking options in advance.

By following these detailed directions, drivers can efficiently navigate from Norwich to Windsor Castle, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Route 3: Via A11 and A505

For those travelling from Norwich to Windsor Castle by car, this route via the A11 and A505 covers approximately 134 miles and typically takes around 3 hours and 3 minutes under ideal conditions.

Departure from Norwich

Begin your journey in Norwich, UK, by following the A147 towards Hethersett Bypass/A11 in Cringleford.

Head north on Bank Plain towards Bank Street (400 ft).
Continue onto St Andrews Street (0.2 miles).
Turn right onto Duke Street (0.3 miles).
Take the 1st exit onto St Crispins Road/A147 (0.2 miles) at the roundabout.
At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Barn Road/A147 and continue following A147 (0.5 miles).
Take the 2nd exit at the roundabout onto Chapelfield Road/A147 (0.4 miles).
At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto St Stephens Road/A11 (0.2 miles).
Keep right to continue on Newmarket Road/A11 and pass through one roundabout (0.7 miles).
At the roundabout, continue straight to stay on Newmarket Road/A11 (1.9 miles).
At Round House Roundabout, take the 2nd exit and stay on Newmarket Road/A11 (0.3 miles).

Main Journey on A11 and A505

Once on the A11, continue driving through multiple roundabouts, staying on the A11 as you proceed towards Thetford and further south.

At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Hethersett Bypass/A11 (13.3 miles).
Continue on London Road/A11 (9.8 miles).
At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Thetford Bypass/A11 (1.9 miles).
Proceed through multiple roundabouts, staying on A11 through Thetford and Fiveways Roundabout (total of 18.5 miles).
Use the right two lanes to merge onto Newmarket Bypass/A14 via the ramp to London/A11/M11 (7.2 miles).
Take a slight left onto Newmarket Bypass/A11 and continue following A11 (8.4 miles).
Use the left two lanes to turn slightly left onto A505, following signs for Royston/M11 N (2.1 miles).
Continue on A505 through multiple roundabouts, following it for approximately 20 miles.

Joining the A1(M), M25, and M4 towards Windsor

As you approach the A1(M), take the necessary junctions and roundabouts to continue towards Slough and Windsor.

Merge onto A1(M) via the ramp to London/Stevenage/Luton Airport (15.5 miles).
At junction 3, take the A414 exit towards St Albans/Welham Green (0.3 miles).
Take the 2nd exit onto N Orbital Road/A414 at Roehyde Interchange (3.0 miles).
At London Colney Roundabout, take the 3rd exit to continue on A414 (2.0 miles).
Take the 2nd exit onto N Orbital Road/A405 (1.3 miles) at Park Street Roundabout.
Take the 1st exit at the roundabout to stay on N Orbital Road/A405 (0.5 miles).
At Bricket Wood Junction, take the 3rd exit onto the M25(S) ramp towards M40/M4/M3/Heathrow Airport (0.6 miles).
Merge onto M25 and continue for approximately 19.1 miles.
At junction 15, use the left two lanes to merge onto M4 towards Slough (2.2 miles).
Take the A4 exit towards Colnbrook/B470/Datchet/Langley (0.3 miles).

Final Leg to Windsor Castle

From Slough, follow the B470 for the final stretch of the journey.

At Langley Roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Major’s Farm Road/B470 (1.7 miles).
Take the 2nd exit at the roundabout onto London Road/B376/B470 (210 ft).
At the next roundabout, take the 1st exit onto High Street/B470 (0.2 miles).
Turn right onto Windsor Road/B470 (1.4 miles).
Turn left onto Thames Street/B3022 (Note: Parts of this road may be closed at certain times – 0.2 miles).
Turn left onto Castle Hill (266 ft).

Upon arrival, you will find yourself at Windsor Castle, a historic and breathtaking landmark that offers an enriching experience for visitors.

Getting to Windsor Castle From Norwich by Train

Travelling from Norwich to Windsor Castle by train involves two main routes, each with variations in travel times depending on the chosen connections and waiting periods between transfers. The journey can take between approximately 3 hours 13 minutes and 3 hours 56 minutes. The primary factors affecting travel time are the number of transfers, station waiting times, and whether buses are required for the final leg.

The route via London Liverpool Street

This route involves taking a train from Norwich to London Liverpool Street, followed by an Elizabeth Line train to Slough. From there, travellers can either take a direct train to Windsor & Eton Central or use a bus for the final stretch.

Fastest Journey: Around 3 hours 13 minutes, involving a short walking transfer at Slough and a direct train to Windsor & Eton Central.
Slightly Longer Options: Some variations of this route involve taking a bus from Slough to Windsor instead of a train, adding a few extra minutes due to waiting times and bus stops.
Longest Variant: Can take up to 3 hours and 25 minutes if a different bus route is chosen, which has more stops or longer waiting periods.

The route via Cambridge and Farringdon

An alternative route involves travelling from Norwich to Cambridge and then continuing via Thameslink services to Farringdon before transferring to the Elizabeth Line. From there, travellers reach Slough and either take a direct train or a bus to Windsor.

Fastest Journey on This Route: Around 3 hours 51 minutes, depending on transfer efficiency and the choice of train versus bus from Slough.
Longest Variant: Up to 3 hours 56 minutes, primarily due to longer waiting times between connections or taking a bus for the final leg.

Factors Affecting Travel Time

Number of Transfers: Routes with more changes generally take longer due to transfer times and potential delays.
Waiting Times: Some connections have longer waits at interchange points, particularly in Slough or Farringdon.
Mode of Transport for Final Stretch: Taking a train from Slough to Windsor & Eton Central is usually quicker than using a bus.
Peak vs Off-Peak Travel: Journey times may vary slightly depending on congestion, train frequency, and station crowding.

Overall, the most efficient way to reach Windsor Castle from Norwich is via London Liverpool Street and the Elizabeth Line, using the train from Slough to Windsor & Eton Central. However, travellers may choose alternative routes based on their preferences for fewer changes or lower costs.

Getting to Windsor Castle from Norwich by Cycle

Cycling from Norwich to Windsor Castle is a rewarding yet challenging journey, covering approximately 142 miles (229 km) with an estimated travel time of 12 hours and 15 minutes. The route follows National Cycle Route 13, featuring an elevation gain of 3,114 feet and a descent of 3,045 feet. While this scenic ride offers beautiful landscapes and historic towns along the way, cyclists should be mindful of real-world conditions, including closures and steep inclines.

Route Overview

The journey commences in Norwich, passing through the city’s historic centre before heading southwest via Castle Meadow, Red Lion Street, and St Stephens Street. Riders will navigate multiple roundabouts along the A11, transitioning onto quieter roads such as Norwich Road (B1172) and Market Street, offering a mix of urban and rural cycling paths.

Key Locations and Notable Sections

Wymondham – A picturesque market town where cyclists will pass Market Place and Church Street before continuing onto Cavick Road.
Thetford Forest – This stretch along National Cycle Route 13 offers a peaceful ride through dense woodland, though some trails may be uneven or temporarily closed due to forestry operations.
Bury St Edmunds – Riders will briefly join National Cycle Route 51 here, passing through Angel Hill, Guildhall Street, and Westley Road before rejoining country lanes.
Newmarket – The famous horse racing town presents a mix of roads, including Ashley Road (B1063) and High Street, before transitioning onto scenic countryside lanes.
Saffron Walden – The route passes through this historic town, offering a chance to explore its charming streets before joining the B1052.
Hertfordshire & Greater London – This section includes multiple roundabouts and busier roads, with some stretches on A roads and quieter cycle paths like Alban Way and London Loop.

Potential Challenges

Road Closures – Certain roads, particularly Thames Street near Windsor, may be closed at specific times. Cyclists should check for local restrictions before setting off.
Steep Climbs – Route sections like those near Thetford Forest and Bury St Edmunds feature significant elevation changes that may challenge less experienced riders.
Urban Navigation – Navigating through busier towns like Watford and Slough requires caution due to increased traffic and complex road layouts.

Final Approach to Windsor Castle

As cyclists near Windsor, they will follow the Grand Union Canal Walk and National Cycle Route 61 before entering Windsor via High Street and Thames Street. The last stretch includes Castle Hill, leading directly to the gates of Windsor Castle, a stunning finale to this epic journey.

This ride demands endurance and preparation but rewards cyclists with a blend of historic sites, countryside views, and a triumphant arrival at one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks.

Conclusion

The journey from Norwich to Windsor Castle offers multiple travel options, each suited to different preferences and time constraints. Travelling by car provides a direct and flexible route, with the A11 and M25 being the fastest choices under normal traffic conditions. Train travel, particularly via London Liverpool Street, offers a convenient alternative with relatively consistent journey times. For cycling enthusiasts, the scenic yet challenging route via National Cycle Route 13 presents an adventurous way to reach Windsor. Regardless of the chosen method, planning ahead—considering traffic, transfers, and road conditions—will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to this historic destination.