Windsor Castle
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Windsor Castle, one of the oldest and largest inhabited castles in the world, was built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror and stands majestically on a hill overlooking the town of Windsor. Still the royal residence and seat of the British monarchy, the castle is an important symbol of royal power and tradition. Visitors can immerse themselves in the castle's rich history and explore highlights such as the magnificent St George's Chapel, the fascinating Queen Mary's Doll House and the imposing State Apartments. From the historic walls to the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, Windsor Castle offers an unparalleled experience. The castle is very popular amongst fans of the British royals and tourists in general - so book in advance to avoid queuing on arrival!
By Hannah Gottlieb-Kettl
By Hannah Gottlieb-KettlSelect a date to find available tickets, tours & activities:
Tickets
Are you now eager to take a closer look at the castle and can't wait? Book your ticket for Windsor Castle in advance and avoid queues on the day of your visit.
Windsor Castle Admission Ticket
4.6
(7085)
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London Pass and Day Tours
Combine Windsor Castle with entry to other attractions with the London Pass. Additionally, you can visit other historic sites like Stonehenge with just one ticket on a day tour!London: The London Pass® with 90+ Attractions and Tours
4.0
(5090)
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London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour
4.3(2135)
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London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip
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From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets
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4 tips for visiting the Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle | Photo: TicketLens, Hannah Gottlieb-Kettl
1
Planning in advanceCheck the opening times and ticket availability, especially if you're visiting the castle during the high season or on holidays. Online bookings can reduce waiting times and ensure that you can actually visit Windsor Castle on your desired date.
Changing the guard | Photo: Unsplash, Lorena Kelly
2
More details, please!We recommend that you book a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and fascinating details of the castle. If you don't want to do a tour, at least get the free audio guide! This will definitely make your visit even more rewarding.
3
Convenience takes precedenceWindsor Castle is large and requires a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. The weather in England can also be changeable, so be prepared for rain or sunshine.
4
Come earlier or later?If possible, try to visit the castle early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds. This gives you more room to enjoy the beauty of the castle and to take photos without too many people around.
Windsor Great Park | Photo: Unsplash, Simon Curry
A royal outing
Windsor Castle is located about an hour's train ride outside of London. Plan to spend at least half, if not the whole day on your visit.English Breakfast | Photo: Unsplash, Nima Naseri
1. Good morning, Darling!
Start your day with an extensive breakfast. You will be on the go for a long time and experience a lot. There is a café in the castle, but it is more focused on Afternoon Tea. Take a small backpack, wear comfortable shoes, and don't forget to pack your camera and a raincoat!
Arrived! | Photo: TicketLens, Hannah Gottlieb-Kettl
2. A train ride away
Windsor Castle generally opens its gates at 10:00 AM. You don't have to be the first one on the spot, but it is definitely recommended to start your journey as early as possible. You start at Paddington station, from where trains to Windsor and Eton Central leave several times an hour. You can buy your train ticket at the counter or from one of the machines and then your journey starts!
3. A steep climb
After about an hour's train ride, you reach the station Windsor and Eton Central. From here, it's about a ten-minute walk until you reach the castle. Please note that the path to the castle and also partly on the castle grounds itself is very steep. Take your time and take a look at the numerous souvenir shops and cafes along the way.
Insider Tip:
Windsor Castle offers a complete, illustrated list of all obstacles for people with limited mobility. You can find it here.
4. Before you start - ‘get an audio guide’!
Large colour photos of the Royal Family await you in the foyer of the visitor entrance and welcome you. However, before you can enter the castle grounds, you have to go through a traditional security check. Ideally, you should only have a small bag or backpack with you and the check will be completed quickly. Immediately after you have entered the castle grounds, you will find the free audio guides. Make sure you get one! Windsor Castle has a colourful history, so you won't miss a single detail!
The Castle Grounds | Photo: TicketLens, Hannah Gottlieb-Kettl
5. The Grounds
As soon as you have set up your audio guide, you can already listen to the first stories about the extensive grounds. The castle itself is truly impressive and the gardens and courtyards are definitely a great photo opportunity! Let the moment affect you and enjoy the atmosphere.
Insider tip:
Take a look at the courtyards! Here you will find an impressive arrangement as well as often historical stories or statues of famous people.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla | Photo: TicketLens, Hannah Gottlieb-Kettl
6. Royal Chambers
After a steep climb, you reach the entrance to the State Apartments. Even though photography is forbidden here, you can collect lasting impressions.
From your audio guide, you learn that the ceremonial rooms are still used by the royal family today. King Charles III welcomes heads of state from all over the world here; or ceremonial award ceremonies take place.
From your audio guide, you learn that the ceremonial rooms are still used by the royal family today. King Charles III welcomes heads of state from all over the world here; or ceremonial award ceremonies take place.
British Afternoon Tea | Photo: Unsplash, Sebastian Coman
7. Afternoon Tea
Have you had enough of exploring? Then it's time for the British Afternoon Tea at the Undercroft Café! The café, named after the medieval crypt of Edward III, is located in one of the oldest surviving rooms in the 1,000-year-old Windsor Castle. Here, you can sip your Earl Grey in royal atmosphere and let your thoughts wander.
It is truly a unique experience to settle down here and enjoy a cup of tea just like people did many centuries ago. Of course, you can also taste delicious cakes and other treats.
It is truly a unique experience to settle down here and enjoy a cup of tea just like people did many centuries ago. Of course, you can also taste delicious cakes and other treats.
Tea time for dolls | Photo: Unsplash, Gabriella Clare Marino
8. The Dollhouse
After the short break, you are ready for Queen Mary's Dolls' House. The house, which was built between 1921 and 1924 for Queen Mary, the wife of King George V, by the renowned British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, is the largest and most famous dollhouse in the world. It houses contributions from over 1,500 top-class artists, craftsmen, and manufacturers of the early 20th century.
Insider Tip:
The Dollhouse celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024. On this occasion, you can experience some rare treasures of the house from a completely new perspective.
9. Final Resting Place of the Royals
Before leaving Windsor Castle, you have the opportunity to pay your last respects to Queen Elizabeth II. The beloved monarch was laid to rest on 19 September 2022 in the King George VI. Memorial Chapel of St George’s Chapel alongside her parents, her sister, and her husband. The chapel is located before the exit to your right and is easily overlooked at first glance.
10. Memories
To round off your visit, be sure to visit the Royal Collection Shop at Windsor Castle to buy a souvenir to take home. The range includes everything from classic souvenirs to fine porcelain to enjoy your royal tea in at home.
Insider Tip:
I personally recommend you to 'adopt' a plush Corgi of the castle. The ’Cuddly Corgis’ have a green ribbon at Windsor Castle, a red one at Buckingham Palace, and a purple one at the Palace of Holyroodhouse and are also the perfect gift for everyone.
The impressive castle | Photo: Unsplash, E Mens
Must-Sees
There is much to discover at Windsor Castle and you can immerse yourself in its royal past and present.State Apartments - Ceremonial Rooms
In the State Apartments, the Ceremonial Rooms, you can explore the magnificent royal apartments used for official events and ceremonies. Admire the opulent decorations, magnificent paintings and royal insignia as you walk through these historic rooms.
State Apartments - Historic Rooms
The historic State Rooms offer a glimpse into England's royal past. See antique furniture, intricate tapestries and historic artefacts that reflect the history of the Royal Family and the country.
Semi-State Rooms
The Semi-State Rooms offer a unique view of the royal family's life in a private setting. Explore elegant living spaces used for smaller gatherings and personal moments, and learn more about the daily life of the royal residents.
Insider tip:
As Windsor Castle is still used by the royal family, the State Rooms are not always open to visitors. Normally, you can visit them from autumn to spring.
Changing the guard
Watch the impressive Changing the Guard ceremony in front of Windsor Castle, where the royal guard changes in their magnificent uniforms and with musical accompaniment. Experience this traditional ceremony that highlights the royal presence of the castle.
Insider tip:
The Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle always takes place on Thursdays and Saturdays around 11:00 am. Compared to the one at Buckingham Palace, it is shorter and also less crowded. Note that you must purchase a separate ticket on-site.
St George’s Chapel
Visit the St George's Chapel, an architecturally impressive gothic church within the castle walls, housing a rich history. Admire the royal tombs, the elaborate stained glass windows, and the majestic atmosphere of this historical site. In St George’s Chapel, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married in 2018; it's also the spiritual home of the exclusive Order of the Garter.
Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
Step inside Queen Mary's Dollhouse and dive into a miniature world full of amazing details. From the magnificent furniture to the tiny paintings, this dollhouse offers a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship of the early 20th century.
Moat Room
In the Moat Room, you can learn more about the history and architecture of Windsor Castle. Enjoy the view of the surrounding moat and the expansive landscape.
Treasures of the castle
Discover the treasures of the castle, including royal jewels, precious artworks, and historical artifacts that illustrate the rich history and culture of Windsor Castle. Learn more about their significance to the royal family and the British people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there anything else to see nearby?
A great atmosphere for a picnic can be found in the fantastic Windsor Great Park, which lies at the foot of the castle and is home to very tame deer. On the other side of the river is Eton with the Eton College, where Princes William and Harry (and other famous personalities) went to school. Legoland Windsor Resort is also not far away, should the desire for adrenaline rushes arise. Read more.
Are there any dining options in Windsor Castle? Can one picnic somewhere?
You can take a break at the castle's own café. If you want to leave the premises to get food in town, you must pick up a re-entry permit from the souvenir shop or multimedia guide counter. Water and edible souvenirs are available in the castle's shop. However, eating and drinking are prohibited in the state rooms and St George’s Chapel. Read more.
Is visiting the castle suitable for children?
Children generally like to see the castle and can easily imagine kings, queens, princes, and princesses in the parade rooms. In a special children's multimedia tour led by Scorch, the dragon, children aged 7 to 11 are provided with age-appropriate content about Windsor Castle. There are also activity trails for families, suitable for children between 5 and 11 years old, where the treasures of the castle can be discovered. There are also costumes and play opportunities!
Events specially tailored for families, such as crafting and storytelling, take place regularly. Admission to these special offers is usually included in the entrance tickets.
Baby strollers can be brought onto the premises, but they must be left before entering the State Apartments. Baby carriers can be borrowed on site. Read more.
Events specially tailored for families, such as crafting and storytelling, take place regularly. Admission to these special offers is usually included in the entrance tickets.
Baby strollers can be brought onto the premises, but they must be left before entering the State Apartments. Baby carriers can be borrowed on site. Read more.
How long should I plan for my visit?
To see everything (the rooms in the castle and additional buildings like St George’s Chapel as well as the courtyards), at least 3 hours should be planned for a visit. There is no time limit, so everything can be explored at leisure. Read more.
General information
opening hours
St. George’s Chapel closes daily at 4:00 pm, but guests are invited to Evensong at 5:15 pm.
The castle is closed completely on the 25th and 26th of December annually.
address
Windsor
Berkshire SL4 1NJ
tickets
The multimedia guide as well as any special exhibitions are included in the price. The admission prices change on days when the State Apartments are closed to guests. Visitors can have their day tickets converted to annual passes for free if they get them stamped before leaving the castle.
how to get there
Written byHannah Gottlieb-KettlHannah is an enthusiastic globetrotter. Her love of discovering new places has taken her to almost every continent on our planet. Hannah now shares this great passion with the world as a content creator. In her writing, she provides impressive insights and combines her travel experiences with lots of useful tips.
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