Windsor Castle Tour: A Comprehensive and Best Guide

Windsor Castle, a shining jewel of British heritage, beckons you to uncover its captivating secrets. This all-encompassing guide, “Windsor Castle Tour: Everything You Need to Know,” serves as your passport to unlocking the wonders of this iconic landmark.

Here is a table with the key takeaways from the article “Windsor Castle Tour: A Comprehensive and Best Guide”:

Category	Details
Planning Your Visit
– Ideal Time to Visit	Spring: Vibrant flowers, moderate crowds<br>Summer: Extensive gardens, large crowds Autumn: Golden hues, moderate crowds Winter: Festive magic, moderate crowds Weekdays: Smaller crowds
– Special Events	Changing of the Guard ceremony Royal weddings
– Winter Opening Hours	Closes at 4:15 PM (last admission at 3:00 PM) from November to February
– Weekday Openings	Open Thursday to Monday year-round, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Ticket Options and Purchasing Guide
– Ticket Prices	Full Day: Adult £28, Young Person £18, Child £15.50, Disabled £15.50, Under 5 Free
– Discounts	Royal Borough Advantage Card Holders Disabled Visitors Family Tickets
Transportation and Parking
– Rail	30 minutes from London Paddington to Windsor Central 55 minutes from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside
– Bus	National Express from London Victoria Coach Station: 1.5 to 2 hours Local buses (8 or 95) from Windsor bus station
– Driving	Accessible via M4 motorway, public car parks nearby (no parking at the castle) Pay-and-display parking: £5-£10 for a few hours, long-term £10-£30
Highlights of Windsor Castle
– St. George’s Chapel	Gothic architecture, royal weddings, and funerals
– State Apartments	Crimson Drawing Room, Grand Corridor, Waterloo Chamber
– Changing of the Guard	Military ceremony, typically at 11:00 AM
– Windsor Great Park	Rolling hills, lakes, and forests
– Eton College	Historical significance, notable alumni
– Frogmore House	17th-century royal retreat with beautiful gardens
– The Long Walk	Three-mile avenue from castle to Copper Horse statue
– Royal Collection Trust	Art, furniture, and artefacts
– The Savill Garden	Vibrant flower beds, lake, hidden follies
– Windsor & Eton Brewery	Guided tours and beer samples
– Windsor and Royal Borough Museum	Local history and heritage artefacts
Additional Information and Tips
– Accessibility and Facilities	Ramps and accessible routes, restrooms, and baby-changing facilities
– Dining Options	The Undercroft Café: Sandwiches, wraps, salads, sweet treats The Savill Garden Kitchen: Seasonal menu, locally sourced ingredients
– Accommodations	Castle Hotel Windsor The Runnymede on Thames Hotel The Beaumont Hotel
– Photography	Permitted in most outdoor areas, not inside State Apartments or St. George’s Chapel Flash photography prohibited
– Other Restrictions	No large bags, food, or drink inside certain areas Minimize noise, no smoking, spitting, or littering
– Souvenirs and Gift Shops	The Castle Shop<br>The Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House Shop Additional souvenir stalls and pop-up shops
Contact Information	Windsor Castle Official Website: Royal Collection Trust Information Desk: +44 (0)303 123 7110 Email: [email protected]
Opening Hours	March 1 – October 31: 10:00 AM to 5:15 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM) November 1 – February 28: 10:00 AM to 4:15 PM (last admission at 3:00 PM) Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Tours Available	State Apartments Tour Changing of the Guard Tour

I. Planning Your Windsor Castle Tour

Now that you’ve delved into Windsor Castle’s captivating history and significance let’s embark on the exciting journey of planning your visit.

A. Choosing the Ideal Time to Visit Windsor Castle

Here is a chart for the best time to visit Windsor Castle according to season:

Season	Highlights	Crowds
Spring	Vibrant flowers, smaller crowds	Moderate
Summer	Extensive gardens, lively atmosphere	Large
Autumn	Golden hues, tranquil ambience	Moderate
Winter	Festive magic, twinkling lights	Moderate
Weekdays	More peaceful, easier to explore	Smaller

Read our comprehensive guide to know about the weekdays for the opening of Windsor Castle.

1. Tailor Your Visit to Your Preferences

• Vibrant hues of spring: Visit during the early spring months to see the castle grounds in full bloom.
• Lively summer atmosphere: Visit during summer to experience the castle’s vibrant atmosphere and extensive gardens.
• The tranquil beauty of autumn: Visit during autumn to enjoy the castle’s golden hues and tranquil ambience.
• Festive magic of winter: Visit during winter to experience the castle’s festive magic and twinkling lights.

While the chart provides a general idea, crowd levels can vary depending on specific dates within each season. Public holidays and school breaks can be busier, even during weekdays.

2. Special Events and Royal Pageantry

• Changing of the Guard ceremony
• Royal weddings
• Other special occasions

3. Winter Opening Hours

The chart says winter crowds are moderate, but it’s important to note that Windsor Castle has slightly earlier closing times during winter months (November to February), closing at 4:15 PM with the last admission at 3:00 PM​.

4. Weekday Openings

Windsor Castle is open to the public from Thursday to Monday throughout the year, excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Opening hours vary slightly depending on the season, so be sure to consult the official website for the most up-to-date information.

B. Ticket Options and Purchasing Guide

You must secure entry tickets to embark on your enchanting journey through Windsor Castle. The castle offers a variety of ticket options to suit your interests and budget. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right tickets and make purchasing seamless.

1. Understanding Ticket Options

Windsor Castle offers a range of ticket options to accommodate different visitors. Here’s an overview of the main ticket types:

• Full-Day Admission: This ticket grants access to all castle areas, including the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House​​.
• Group Discounts: Groups of 15 or more can enjoy discounted ticket rates​.
• Combined Tickets: If you plan to visit other attractions in the area, consider a combined ticket that includes entry to Windsor Castle and nearby attractions like Stonehenge or the Oxford University colleges​​.

2. Purchasing Your Tickets Prices and Discounts

There are two convenient ways to purchase your Windsor Castle tickets:

• Online: The most convenient method is to purchase your tickets online through the Royal Collection Trust’s official website. You can select your desired date, time, and ticket type and pay securely using a credit or debit card.
• Onsite: If you prefer to purchase tickets in person, you can do so at the castle’s ticket office upon arrival. However, keep in mind that peak seasons may experience longer queues.

3. Ticket Prices and Discounts

Ticket prices vary depending on the type of ticket, the time of year, and any applicable discounts. Here’s a general overview of ticket prices:

• Full Day Admission: Adult: £28.00, Young Person (18-24): £18.00, Child (5-17): £15.50, Disabled: £15.50, Under 5 Free

4. Windsor Castle Tour Prices

Type	Adult	Young person (18-24)	Child (5-17)	Disabled	Under 5
Advance price	£28.00	£18.00	£15.50	£15.50	Free
On-the-day price	£30.00	£19.50	£16.50	£16.50	Free
Group prices	£26.00 per person	£17.00 per person	£14.50 per person	£14.50 per person	Free

5. Discounts and Concessionary Rates

Several discounts are available for specific groups, such as:

• Royal Borough Advantage Card Holders: Residents of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead can enjoy discounted ticket prices upon presentation of their valid card.
• Disabled Visitors: Disabled visitors can purchase tickets at a reduced rate and may be eligible for companion admission.
• Family Tickets: Families with children can save money by purchasing a family ticket covering two adults and two children.

6. Additional Information on Windsor Castle Tickets

• Ticket Validity: Tickets are only valid for the selected date and time slot.
• Re-entry: Once you have entered the castle, you can re-enter on the same day by presenting your valid ticket.
• Audio Guides: Audio guides are available for rent in English and other languages.
• Photography: Photography is permitted within the castle grounds, but some areas may have restrictions.
• Souvenirs and Gifts: The castle shop offers a wide selection of souvenirs, gifts, and books related to Windsor Castle and royal history.

C. Windsor Castle Transportation Options and Parking

Windsor Castle, a magnificent landmark steeped in history, lies just outside London, inviting visitors from far and wide to explore its grandeur. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, planning your transportation to and from the castle is essential for a seamless and enjoyable experience.

1. Convenient Rail Connections

Trains from London to Windsor are frequent and efficient. The journey can be as short as 30 minutes from London Paddington Station to Windsor Central Station with a change at Slough or about 55 minutes from London Waterloo Station to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station.

2. Bus Options for Budget-Conscious Travelers

Buses provide budget-conscious travellers with an affordable alternative to Windsor Castle from London. The National Express offers direct bus services from Victoria Coach Station in London to Windsor Castle. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, but the lower fares can make it an attractive option.

Once you arrive in Windsor, you can take the local bus service, the 8 or 95, to drop you off right outside the castle gates. These local buses operate regularly, providing a convenient connection to the castle from the bus station.

3. Driving to Windsor Castle: A Scenic Route with Parking Considerations

If you prefer the flexibility of driving to Windsor Castle, you’ll find the journey from London both scenic and convenient. The castle is easily accessible via the M4 motorway, which offers a direct route from the city centre.

Upon reaching Windsor, follow the signs for Windsor Castle, which will guide you to public car parks near the castle. There is no parking at the castle itself. Several pay-and-display car parks are located near the castle, offering both short-term and long-term parking options.

4. Transportation Costs and Fees

Here’s a general overview of transportation costs and fees for your journey to Windsor Castle:

• Train: Adult return ticket from London Paddington Station to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station: £25-£35 (prices may vary depending on the time of travel)
• Bus: National Express single ticket from London Victoria Coach Station to Windsor: £10-£15 (prices may vary depending on the time of travel)
• Parking: Pay-and-display car park charges vary but expect to pay around £5-£10 for a few hours of parking. Long-term parking fees can range from £10 to £30.

Please also read for several parking options with free parking options at Windsor Castle.

By carefully considering your budget, travel preferences, and time constraints, you can select the most suitable transportation option for your journey to Windsor Castle. Whether you choose the convenience of the train, the budget-friendly bus, or the flexibility of driving, you’ll find that reaching this magnificent landmark is a breeze.

II. A Journey through Time and Architectural Splendor

Windsor Castle is a captivating blend of historical significance, architectural marvel, and enduring legacy as a royal residence.

From its strategic beginnings as a Norman stronghold to its transformation into a grand palace, Windsor Castle has witnessed pivotal moments in British history. The castle’s architectural tapestry reflects centuries of refinement, from medieval foundations to Gothic splendour, Tudor refinements, Georgian elegance, and Victorian additions.

Beyond its grandeur, Windsor Castle houses priceless artefacts, artworks, and historical treasures, including the exquisite State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. Today, Windsor Castle remains a vibrant royal residence, serving as a backdrop for state occasions, royal weddings, and public engagements.

Embrace the grandeur of Windsor Castle, a testament to British heritage and the enduring legacy of the monarchy.

III. Unveiling the Captivating Highlights of Windsor Castle

1. St. George’s Chapel: Explore a Gothic masterpiece and witness its role in royal ceremonies. This chapel, begun in 1475, is one of England’s finest examples of Gothic architecture and has hosted numerous royal weddings and funerals​.
2. State Apartments: Marvel at opulent interiors, including the Crimson Drawing Room, the Grand Corridor, and the Waterloo Chamber. These rooms are known for their rich decorations and have been used for state functions. The Crimson Drawing Room and the Waterloo Chamber are particularly notable.
3. Changing of the Guard Ceremony: Witness the captivating ceremony and soak in the atmosphere of military precision and symbolism. The ceremony typically takes place at 11:00 AM on certain days​.
4. Windsor Great Park: Embark on nature’s embrace and stroll through rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and serene forests. This vast parkland adjacent to Windsor Castle offers beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities​.
5. Eton College: Step back in time and explore the esteemed institution founded by King Henry VI. Eton College is one of the most famous schools in the world, known for its historical significance and notable alumni.
6. Frogmore House: A 17th-century royal retreat near Windsor Castle, Frogmore House boasts beautiful gardens and has hosted royals for centuries. It is known for its historical importance and serene gardens.
7. The Long Walk: Take a scenic journey along an avenue stretching three miles from the castle to the Copper Horse statue. This iconic walk offers stunning views and a connection to Windsor’s natural beauty​.
8. Royal Collection Trust: Embark on a captivating journey through the vast collection of art, furniture, and artefacts. The Royal Collection is one of the world’s largest and most important art collections​.
9. The Savill Garden: Discover a horticultural masterpiece and stroll through vibrant flower beds, a serene lake, and hidden follies. This garden is part of Windsor Great Park and is known for its stunning plant collections and design​.
10. The Windsor & Eton Brewery: Unleash your inner brewmaster and embark on a guided tour to learn about the brewing process and sample delectable beers. This local brewery offers a unique experience for beer enthusiasts​.
11. Windsor and Royal Borough Museum: Embark on a captivating journey through the annals of time and explore an extensive collection of artefacts. This museum provides insight into the history and heritage of Windsor and the surrounding area.

IV. Additional Information and Tips for Your Visit

Here are some additional tips and information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Windsor Castle.

A. Accessibility and Facilities

Windsor Castle welcomes visitors with diverse needs. The castle is designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, providing ramps and accessible routes throughout the premises. Restrooms and baby-changing facilities are also conveniently located for added comfort. This commitment ensures everyone can experience the castle’s grandeur and immerse themselves in its rich history​.

B. Dining Options

• The Undercroft Café: Located within the castle, this café offers a variety of sandwiches, wraps, salads, and sweet treats in a medieval setting​.
• The Savill Garden Kitchen: This restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients within the picturesque Savill Garden in Windsor Great Park​.

(Note: The State Dining Room Restaurant mentioned does not operate as a public restaurant.)

C. Accommodations

• Castle Hotel Windsor: Located just steps from the castle gates, this elegant hotel offers luxurious accommodations and traditional British cuisine​.
• The Runnymede on Thames Hotel: Situated on the banks of the River Thames, this hotel provides tranquil views and dining at an award-winning restaurant​.
• The Beaumont Hotel: A boutique hotel in the heart of Windsor, blending Victorian charm with contemporary elegance​.

D. Photography Guidelines and Restrictions

• Photography: Permitted in most outdoor areas but not inside the State Apartments or St. George’s Chapel. Flash photography is prohibited.

E. Other Restrictions and Guidelines

• Bags: Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are prohibited. Smaller bags are allowed but will be searched​.
• Food and Drink: Not allowed inside the State Apartments or Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
• Noise Levels: Please respect other visitors and staff by minimising noise​.
• Dress Code: No formal dress code, but appropriate attire is expected​.
• Proper Conduct: Avoid smoking, spitting, or littering within the castle grounds​.
• Respect for Property: Do not touch or damage exhibits.
• Stay on Designated Paths: To avoid damaging vegetation and archaeological remains.
• Following Instructions: Follow instructions from staff and volunteers​.

F. Souvenirs and Gift Shops

• The Castle Shop: Offers a wide range of royal memorabilia, historical artefacts, and handcrafted items​​.
• The Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House Shop: Specialises in miniature replicas and items inspired by Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House​.
• Additional Shopping Options: Souvenir stalls and pop-up shops are available throughout the castle grounds.

Comparing Shops Near Windsor Castle

G. Contact Information and Further Resources

For the latest information, ticket prices, and any queries, visit the official Windsor Castle website or contact their information desk:

• Windsor Castle Official Website: Royal Collection Trust
• Windsor Castle Information Desk: +44 (0)303 123 7110
• Windsor Castle Email: [email protected]

V. Conclusion

Windsor Castle is a journey through time, architecture, and royal heritage. Immerse yourself in its rich history, admire its architectural beauty, and witness the grandeur of royal life. Plan your tour today.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply someone who appreciates the grandeur of royal palaces, Windsor Castle has something to offer everyone.

Windsor Castle is open to the public from 10:00 AM to 5:15 PM from March 1 to October 31, with the last admission at 4:00 PM. From November 1 to February 28, the castle is open from 10:00 AM to 4:15 PM, with the last admission at 3:00 PM. The castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays​​. Windsor Castle offers a variety of guided tours, including the State Apartments Tour and the Changing of the Guard Tour. These tours provide in-depth insights into the castle’s history and architecture.

Consider spring, fall, or even winter for a festive atmosphere (with shorter opening hours) to avoid peak summer crowds. Check the website for current admission fees (adult starts around £25) and discounts. Use the official website or parking apps for parking near the castle (Castle Hill or Home Park options) and real-time availability. The castle hosts various events throughout the year beyond the Royal Windsor Horse Show, Windsor Tattoo, and Christmas Festival – so check their website for a full calendar.