Get to Windsor Castle From Leicester

Key Points

• Windsor Castle is approximately 105 to 117 miles from Leicester, depending on the route taken. To get to Windsor Castle from Leicester, you have multiple travel options.
• The fastest and most convenient route by car is via the M1, taking around 2 hours and 11 minutes under normal conditions. This route follows the M1 southbound, then connects to the M25 before merging onto the M4, leading to Windsor.
• Another viable option is via the M40, taking around 2 hours and 13 minutes, though slightly longer and more scenic.
• If travelling by train, the fastest route (approximately 2 hours 11 minutes) involves taking an East Midlands Railway (EMR) train from Leicester to London St Pancras, using the Underground to reach Paddington, then boarding a Great Western Railway (GWR) train to Slough, and finally a short train ride to Windsor & Eton Central.
• A longer train route (up to 2 hours 51 minutes) involves using Thameslink and the Elizabeth Line, which has more stops and longer waiting times.
• The journey is around 9 hours 30 minutes for cyclists, with options via National Cycle Route 6 or Waddesdon Greenway, but it requires careful navigation.
• The best option overall is the train via St Pancras, Paddington, and GWR, as it avoids traffic congestion and ensures a smooth, reliable journey.

---

Getting to Windsor Castle From Leicester By Car

Routes Comparison Table

Route	Distance	Estimated Time	Key Roads	Advantages	Disadvantages
Route 1: Via M1	105 miles	2 hours 11 minutes	M1, M25, M4	Fastest route under normal conditions	Potential congestion on M1 and M25
Route 2: Via M40	117 miles	2 hours 13 minutes	M69, A46, M40, M4	Less reliance on M1 traffic	Slightly longer distance
Route 3: Via M1 & M40	112 miles	2 hours 19 minutes	M1, A43, M40, A404, M4	Balanced mix of speed and scenic routes	Can encounter congestion near High Wycombe and Slough

---

Route 1: Via M1

This route takes approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes under ideal conditions and covers a distance of 105 miles. It is generally the fastest route, considering usual traffic patterns.

Step 1: Departing from Leicester

1. Begin in Leicester, UK.
2. Head southwest on Vaughan Way/A594 toward Highcross Street (217 ft).
3. Use the left two lanes to turn slightly left toward St Nicholas Circle (0.1 mi).
4. Continue onto St Nicholas Circle (322 ft).
5. Use the middle lane to turn slightly right to stay on St Nicholas Circle (167 ft).
6. Use the left lane to turn right onto St Nicholas Circle/A47 (335 ft).
7. Use the left lane to continue on St Augustine Road/A47 (0.2 mi).
8. Use the left two lanes to turn left onto Narborough Road North/A5460 (2.8 mi).
9. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto A5460 (0.5 mi).
10. Use the left lane to merge onto M1 via the ramp to London/Northampton (0.4 mi).

Step 2: Driving on M1 and M25

1. Merge onto M1 (75.4 mi).
2. At Junction 6A, use the third lane from the left to take the M25 exit toward M40/M4/Heathrow Airport (0.8 mi).
3. Use the right lane to take the ramp onto M25 (18.8 mi).
4. At Junction 15, use the left two lanes to merge onto M4 toward Slough (2.2 mi).
5. Take the A4 exit toward Colnbrook/B470/Datchet/Langley (0.3 mi).

Step 3: Final Approach to Windsor Castle

1. At Langley Roundabout, take the second exit onto Major’s Farm Road/B470 (1.7 mi).
2. Take the second exit onto London Road/B376/B470 (210 ft) at the next roundabout.
3. At another roundabout, take the first exit onto High Street/B470 (0.2 mi).
4. Turn right onto Windsor Road/B470 (1.4 mi).
5. Turn left onto Thames Street/B3022 (0.2 mi) (Parts of this road may be closed at certain times or days).
6. Finally, turn left onto Castle Hill (266 ft).

Destination: Windsor Castle

You have now arrived at Windsor Castle, one of England’s most famous royal residences.

---

Route 2: Via M40

This route takes approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes under ideal conditions and covers a distance of 117 miles.

Step 1: Departing from Leicester

1. Begin in Leicester, UK.
2. Head southwest on Vaughan Way/A594 toward Highcross Street (217 ft).
3. Use the left two lanes to turn slightly left toward St Nicholas Circle (0.1 mi).
4. Continue onto St Nicholas Circle (322 ft).
5. Use the middle lane to turn slightly right to stay on St Nicholas Circle (167 ft).
6. Use the left lane to turn right onto St Nicholas Circle/A47 (335 ft).
7. Use the left lane to continue on St Augustine Road/A47 (0.2 mi).
8. Use the left two lanes to turn left onto Narborough Road North/A5460 (2.8 mi).
9. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto A5460 (0.6 mi).
10. Take the second exit onto M69 at the next roundabout, heading to Birmingham/M6/Coventry (16.3 mi).

Step 2: Driving on M69 and M40

1. Continue onto Coventry Eastern Bypass/A46 (1.4 mi).
2. Take the first exit at the roundabout and stay on A46 (2.7 mi).
3. Keep right to continue on Stonebridge Highway/A45 (1.5 mi).
4. Use the left lane to take the ramp to A4114/City Centre (0.2 mi).
5. At Stivichall Interchange, take the first exit onto the A46 ramp to M40/Banbury/Warwick/Leamington/A452/Kenilworth (0.3 mi).
6. Continue onto Kenilworth Bypass/A46 (8.9 mi).
7. Keep left to continue on Warwick Bypass (0.8 mi).
8. At Longbridge Island, take the second exit onto the M40 ramp to London/Banbury/Leamington (0.5 mi).
9. Merge onto M40 (62.9 mi).
10. At Junction 4, use the left two lanes to take the A404 exit to H. Wycombe/Marlow/M4/Maidenhead (0.3 mi).

Step 3: Final Approach to Windsor Castle

1. Take the second exit onto A404 (4.4 mi) at Handy Cross Roundabout.
2. At the next roundabout, take the third exit and stay on A404 (3.0 mi).
3. Keep right to continue on A404(M) toward Reading/Slough/Windsor/M4 (2.5 mi).
4. Use the middle lane to turn slightly left onto Holyport Interchange (322 ft).
5. Use the middle lane to take the M4 exit toward London (0.2 mi).
6. Slight right to merge onto M4 (4.4 mi).
7. Take the exit toward A355 (0.3 mi).
8. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto A355 (0.5 mi).
9. Continue onto Royal Windsor Way/A332 (1.2 mi).
10. Slight left onto Clarence Road and go through one roundabout (0.5 mi).
11. Continue onto Victoria Street (0.3 mi).
12. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto Sheet Street/B3022 (0.2 mi).
13. Turn right onto Castle Hill (266 ft).

Destination: Windsor Castle

You have now arrived at Windsor Castle.

---

Route 3: Via M1 and M40

For a balanced mix of highway efficiency and scenic stretches, this route takes approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes under ideal conditions, covering a distance of 112 miles.

Directions:

1. Start in Leicester:
   • Head southwest on Vaughan Way (A594) and follow the signs toward St Nicholas Circle.
   • Use Narborough Road North (A5460) to merge onto the M1 southbound.
2. Follow M1 to West Northamptonshire:
   • Drive 31.6 miles on the M1 before taking Exit 15A for the A43.
3. Take A43 to M40:
   • Follow the A43 through Towcester and Brackley, passing multiple roundabouts.
   • Join the M40 Southbound at Exit 10.
4. Drive on M40 toward High Wycombe:
   • Continue on the M40 for 34.2 miles before exiting at Junction 4 (A404).
5. Take A404 to Berkshire:
   • Use the A404 and A404(M) to connect to the M4.
6. Follow M4 to Slough, then Windsor:
   • Take the A355 exit from the M4 and follow Royal Windsor Way (A332).
   • Continue via Clarence Road and Castle Hill to reach Windsor Castle.

Key Considerations:

• Traffic Hotspots: Expect congestion near High Wycombe and Slough, especially during peak hours.
• Road Closures: Some parts of B3022 near Windsor Castle may be closed at certain times.

This route provides a smooth highway experience while avoiding some of the busiest sections around London, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing speed and accessibility.

---

Getting to Windsor Castle From Leicester by Train

The journey from Leicester to Windsor Castle by train takes approximately between 2 hours 11 minutes and 2 hours 51 minutes, depending on the specific route and transfers. The variations in travel time arise due to differences in train routes, transfer points, waiting times, and the choice of transport methods. Below is a detailed analysis of why the journey times differ.

Number of Transfers and Connection Times

One of the biggest factors affecting total travel time is the number of transfers and the time spent waiting between connections.

• Fastest Route (2 hr 11 min):
  • This route involves three train transfers and a short subway ride, with minimal waiting times.
  • The efficiency of this route is due to short transfer times at major stations like St Pancras, Paddington, and Slough, ensuring a seamless journey with little downtime.
• Longest Route (2 hr 51 min):
  • This route also requires three train transfers but includes a longer waiting period at Slough (23 minutes) before the final leg to Windsor.
  • The increased waiting time adds nearly 40 minutes compared to the fastest route, making the journey longer.

Choice of Train Lines and Stop Patterns

Different routes use different train services, significantly impacting the journey’s duration.

• Fastest Route (2 hr 11 min):
  • Utilizes East Midlands Railway (EMR), London Underground, and Great Western Railway (GWR).
  • EMR takes passengers from Leicester to St Pancras in 1 hr 7 min (non-stop).
  • The journey continues via the London Underground (Circle/Hammersmith & City Line) to Paddington, a 10-minute ride with five stops.
  • From Paddington, a non-stop GWR train reaches Slough in 15 minutes, followed by a short 6-minute GWR train ride to Windsor.
• Longest Route (2 hr 51 min):
  • Uses a mix of Thameslink, Elizabeth Line, and GWR trains, which include more stops.
  • Instead of using the Underground, this route takes a Thameslink train from St Pancras to Farringdon (4 min), then switches to the Elizabeth Line for a 39-minute ride to Slough.
  • The Elizabeth Line stops at 10 stations before reaching Slough, significantly increasing travel time compared to the Paddington-GWR route, which is much faster.

Differences in Routes Through London

The way passengers navigate through London between St Pancras and Paddington/Slough also impacts total travel time.

• Fastest Route (via Underground – 2 hr 11 min)
  • Passengers take the Circle/Hammersmith & City Line for only 10 minutes from King’s Cross St. Pancras to Paddington.
  • This direct subway transfer is quicker than taking an overground train across London.
• Longest Route (via Thameslink + Elizabeth Line – 2 hr 51 min)
  • Instead of the Underground, passengers take Thameslink to Farringdon and then switch to the Elizabeth Line, which takes significantly longer.
  • The Elizabeth Line has more stops and is a slower alternative to the Paddington-GWR route.

Waiting Times for Trains at Key Stations

The total journey time also depends on how quickly passengers can board their next train.

• Fastest Route (2 hr 11 min):
  • Has shorter waiting times between train changes, making the journey more efficient.
  • For example, the wait time at Paddington is just about 7 minutes before boarding the GWR train to Slough.
• Longest Route (2 hr 51 min):
  • Has a longer waiting period at Slough (about 23 minutes) before catching the final train to Windsor, which adds to the total journey time.

Impact of Walking Distances Between Stations

While most walking transfers are short, they can still contribute to total travel time.

• Fastest Route (2 hr 11 min):
  • Involves a 7-minute walk from St Pancras to the Underground station and a 1-minute walk at Paddington.
  • The final walk from Windsor & Eton Central to Windsor Castle is only 7 minutes.
• Longest Route (2 hr 51 min):
  • Has a slightly shorter walk at St Pancras (4 minutes) but does not save significant time.
  • However, the longer waiting time at Slough outweighs any minor walking time differences.

Analysis

The journey from Leicester to Windsor Castle by train can take anywhere from 2 hours 11 minutes to 2 hours 51 minutes, depending on the route chosen. The primary factors influencing travel time include:

1. The number of transfers and connection efficiency – Fewer and faster transfers result in a quicker journey.
2. The choice of train routes – The EMR + Underground + GWR combination is faster than the Thameslink + Elizabeth Line route, which has more stops.
3. Navigating London – The Underground transfer at Paddington is quicker than using Thameslink and the Elizabeth Line.
4. Waiting times for trains – Some routes have longer waiting times at transfer stations, especially at Slough, which affects total travel duration.

For the fastest journey, passengers should take the EMR train to St Pancras, transfer via the Underground to Paddington, and then take the GWR trains to Windsor. Those opting for the Thameslink and Elizabeth Line route may experience a longer journey with additional stops and waiting times.

---

Getting to Windsor Castle From Leicester By Cycle

Cycling from Leicester to Windsor Castle is an ambitious and varied journey that covers over 100 miles of British countryside. The route offers several variants, each blending scenic rural roads, dedicated cycle paths, and the occasional restricted or private stretch. Whether you choose the route via Brampton Vly Wy and National Cycle Route 6 or an alternative path incorporating the Waddesdon Greenway, careful planning and attention to the directions are essential. Below is a summary of three route options.

Route Variant 1: Via Brampton Vly Wy and National Cycle Route 6

Begin in Leicester by heading southwest on Vaughan Wy/A594 toward Highcross Street. Soon, turn left onto Highcross St, then continue for a short distance before taking Highcross Lane for roughly 466 feet. As Highcross Ln gently becomes Shires Ln, follow the road to High Street (approximately 0.2 miles), then turn right onto Gallowtree Gate. A brief left onto Halford Street and a subsequent right onto Charles Street will lead you to St Georges Way/A594.

After a short continuation on A594, make a slight left onto London Road/A6 and cycle for about 4.3 miles. From here, follow a series of turns—right onto Mere Lane, left onto The Square, and then further left and right through minor roads (including Wistow Road and Knaphill Crescent)—before joining National Cycle Route 6.

Once on the cycle route, you will navigate several segments via Harborough Road/B6047, Northampton Road, and Scotland Road before entering a lengthy stretch along Brampton Vly Wy. Here, you encounter roundabouts and several short directional adjustments (including left turns and slight right corrections) to remain on National Cycle Route 6. This variant is marked as taking roughly 9 hours, 41 minutes, and 112 miles, with notable elevation changes (climbs of about 2,303 feet and descents of 2,392 feet).

Please note that parts of this route include restricted usage or private roads, so extra caution is advised.

Route Variant 2: Incorporating the Waddesdon Greenway

Much of the early journey mirrors Variant 1: leaving Leicester via Vaughan Wy/A594, then progressing through Highcross St, Highcross Lane (which becomes Shires Ln), and onto High Street and Gallowtree Gate. Continue past Halford Street, Charles Street, and St Georges Way/A594 before turning onto London Rd/A6.

This variant diverges after joining National Cycle Route 6, where it integrates the Waddesdon Greenway. After following the cycle route through several roundabouts and a series of short left and right turns—including navigation along Castlethorpe Road, North Street, and Newport Road—the path offers a slightly smoother ride over approximately 108 miles, taking around 9 hours and 33 minutes. Key features include gentle gradients and well-maintained cycle lanes. Just as with Variant 1, portions of the route include pedestrian tunnels and sections where road closures may occur, so always check local conditions before setting off.

Route Variant 3: Via National Cycle Route 63 and Local Roads

The third option begins with a slightly different approach in Leicester. After leaving on Vaughan Wy/A594, take a slight left onto St Nicholas Circle and then continue onto St Augustine Road/A47. Follow directions leading to Duns Lane and then merge into the National Cycle Route 6/National Cycle Route 63 corridor.

Here, a series of quick directional shifts—small left and right turns to remain on the designated cycle routes—lead you along Marlow Road, Cork Lane, and Winchester Avenue before rejoining National Cycle Route 6 via Leicester Road and other local streets. This route weaves through several short stretches on Hospital Lane, Oaks Drive, and other minor roads before eventually guiding you through pedestrian tunnels and along Thames Street. The final leg involves a series of turns onto Castle Hill, culminating at the historic Windsor Castle.

Important Note:

Bicycling directions may not always reflect real-world conditions. Some roads along these routes might be subject to closures or restrictions at certain times, and elevations or traffic conditions can vary. Always check for the latest cycle maps and local advice before embarking on your journey.

---

Conclusion

Travelling from Leicester to Windsor Castle is most efficient by train, with the fastest route via St Pancras, Paddington, and GWR offering a smooth journey in just 2 hours and 11 minutes. Driving via the M1 is the quickest road option, taking around 2 hours and 11 minutes, though traffic can be unpredictable. Cycling is a feasible but lengthy choice, requiring over 9 hours of travel. The train remains the best option for reliability and ease, ensuring minimal disruptions and a comfortable ride.

---