tours of windsor castle from london

The 7 Best Windsor Castle Tours From London 🏰 [2024 Reviews]

Constructed around 1,000 years ago, Windsor Castle understandably has quite the history (to say the least!). The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, it’s been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there.

If you’re going to be in London, it’s a historic icon that you absolutely must see – even if you aren’t particularly interested in the royal family.

We have the top Windsor Castle tours available, making sure you make the most of your time and money!

Best Tours Of Windsor Castle

Quick answer: the 7 best rated windsor castle tours for 2024.

• Best Half-Day Tour: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets From London
• Best Private Tour: Private Half-Day Tour of Windsor Castle
• Best Budget Tour: Royal Windsor Afternoon Tour from London From London
• Best Luxury Tour: Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London
• Best Small Group Tour: Private Windsor Castle And Eton Tour
• Best Day Tour: Windsor Castle Tour from London with Lunch
• Best Guided Tour: Afternoon Trip London to Windsor Castle

Be sure to see our reviews of Buckingham Palace tours , Downton Abbey tours and Thames River cruises .

Windsor Castle Tour Reviews

1. best half-day tour: half-day trip to windsor with castle tickets from london.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure:  Earls Court Underground Station
• Departure Time: 9:50 AM
• Includes:  Entrance to Windsor Castle,  Windsor Castle multimedia guide, r ound-trip transportation from London by luxury bus

This is one of the most popular tours from London, and if you’re in the city looking for an educational, fun tour this one is hard to beat. The From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets packs a ton in while still making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

If you’re looking to explore Windsor Castle and get some fresh air walking around the grounds, take a good look here!

There are various central London meetup points, ensuring it’s as convenient as possible for you. Choose the one that works best for you and head out west on a bus tour in the morning. If you have London plans in the evening, this won’t conflict at all!

The bus is quite comfortable, with nice, big windows to see the beautiful city and landscape views as you head to the historic town of Windsor.

Once you and the rest of your group arrive, you’ll be taken through and told all about the Queen’s official residence. There’s no need to rush, either – they make sure you can take it at your own pace.

From the Norman Invasion and its origins to present-day relevance, you’ll practically be an expert on the castle! The history is obviously very interesting, but the castle and surrounding area itself is also quite beautiful!

We highly recommend heading to the left once exiting the castle to take the “long walk”. It’s a great way to also get away for a moment from the hustle-and-bustle of lively London.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best private tour: private half-day tour of windsor castle.

• Duration: 5 hours
• Departure: Pickup included
• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Includes:  Air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, wi-fi on board, bottled water

While our other tours are certainly smaller ones for more personalized attention, this one is even more so. This 4-hour tour comes in the form of a private car service picking you up from your hotel and taking you to Windsor Castle in a comfortable Mercedes Benz.

If that sounds like a good time to you, check out the Windsor Castle Private Tour ! With a maximum group size of 4 people (plus the driver), you can be assured you’ll receive all the answers to your questions!

Considering the convenience and ability to learn so much with this model of tour, it’s surprising how affordable this one runs for. With such an accommodating, knowledgeable, attentive guide, it feels like a good friend is just taking you and showing you around Windsor!

As soon as you get in the vehicle, your guide will start telling you interesting facts and anecdotes about all the sites you see. You’ll even learn quite a bit about Windsor and Windsor Castle before you arrive!

This is the largest and oldest continuously-occupied castle in the world, and as one of the official royal residences of the Queen, it already draws a lot of interest.

Walk around and see St. George’s Chapel, which is over 500 years old and has been the place of many significant events throughout history.

Check out inside the castle, where the State Apartments sit and have been used to house important guests throughout these over 900 years. Not to mention, all of the beautiful furniture, tapestries, artwork, and more!

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3. best budget tour: royal windsor afternoon tour from london.

• Duration: 7 hours
• Departure: Evan Evans Office 258 Vauxhall Bridge Road
• Departure Time:  1:00 PM
• Includes:   Entry to Windsor Castle,  English-speaking guide, a  personal audio headset, audio guide in various languages, w i-fi

Not everyone needs or wants a tour that will fit into busier schedules. Some want to pack in as much as possible, and don’t mind taking longer tours to do so. If that sounds like you, check out the London: Royal Windsor Afternoon Tour from London .

This 7-hour tour is led by a professional tour guide, who is undoubtedly knowledgeable and there to ensure you have a great time. The English-speaking guide will take you through the historic Windsor so you can explore the castle, see the famous St. George’s Chapel, and more.

Starting out as a Saxon village, it’s thought to have been inhabited from approximately 700 AD – as you can imagine there are quite a few stories to tell about the area.

Meet up at Evan Evans Office in London and head out to Windsor. We found the vehicles to be smooth, and the driver to be very safe and attentive.

Once you arrive to this beautiful countryside location, you’ll get to see the river, stroll about its cobbled streets, and explore its charming little tea rooms, shops, and more as your guide offers an intriguing commentary on its background.

After getting to know the town a bit, you’ll head over to the infamous Windsor Castle. It’s hard to miss, and you may have even caught a glimpse of it already as it rises high above the rest of the town.

Having been the ancestral home of the royal family for almost a thousand years, there are countless stories to learn about it.

The architecture alone is quite stunning, but the interior is really going to make your jaw drop. Take a tour through the state apartments, where all kinds of significant icons throughout history have laid their heads.

On the walls hang some of the most important pieces of art by legendary artists as well, and were luckily saved during a more recent fire.

You’ll then see St. George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wed in 2018. However, it’s been around a lot longer than that: since 1528! It’s also the resting place of various monarchs.

4. Best Luxury Tour: Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath from London

• Duration: 12 hours
• Departure: Various departure points (round-trip transportation offered)
• Departure Time: 8:30 AM
• Includes: Bottled water, professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, private tour, transport by private vehicle, fuel surcharge

Next up, we bring you our longest tour and one that will take you all over some of the most legendary places in the country. You’ll not only get to see Windsor Castle, but many other points of interest!

The Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London tour will check a lot of boxes on your bucket list, and do so in one of the most convenient ways possible!

Start off by being picked up in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle and head straight to Eton College, which is known as being the private school of choice for the royal family of the United Kingdom.

Commissioned over 500 years ago by King Henry VIII, it’s still one of the top choices for schools for some of the most powerful families on the planet.

Next, is Windsor Castle, where you’ll get to see the Royal Guards, inside the history of the castle, the courtyards, and even St. George’s Chapel. Your guide will take you through all the interesting nooks and crannies, and to the most iconic parts, as well.

Now, it’s over to both Woodhenge and Stonehenge. Woodhenge is an ancient Neolithic wooden monument built very close to Stonehenge in approximately 2500 BC. You’ll learn about why it’s so important, both throughout the years and present-day.

Hop on over to Stonehenge and your guide will also fill you in on the history behind this 5,000-year-old wonder, explore the visitor center, and take some photos!

After all this adventuring, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. Sneak in a fantastic traditional pub lunch of fish and chips or sip on a traditional English tea.

Head on over to the beautiful, enthralling town of Bath which is filled with jaw-droppingly intricate architecture and a unique history. There’s some great shopping and dining here, and if you’d like you can also enter the infamous Roman Bath house!

5. Best Small Group Tour: Private Windsor Castle And Eton Tour

• Duration: 6 to 7 hours
• Departure: Various pickup spots available
• Departure Time:  9:00 AM
• Includes:  Hotel pickup and drop-off, private tour, transport by private vehicle, driver/guide, professional guide

This tour is a crowd favorite, due to the time being easy to fit into the daytime while being able to tend to London plans in the evening. The Private Windsor Castle and Eton Tour lasts anywhere from 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and other factors.

Offered in 10 different languages, this is a comprehensive tour that will have you avoiding the large group tours that can be harder to learn or see the interesting points with.

You and the rest of your group will be picked up in central London, in a comfortable, spacious vehicle with air conditioning. The trip is quite scenic and your guide/driver will tell you interesting stories about the route as well as Windsor so you have a good background before arriving.

Starting out in the historic center of the town, you’ll check out hidden passages that connect the castle to certain pubs! You’ll see the famous “crooked house”, and even see the rear part of the castle that many visitors don’t get to see.

Next, you’ll see the more common, “touristy” parts of the castle though you’ll get to skip the long lines and just enter.

You’ll be able to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, the amazing apartments inside where many important figures have stayed, artwork by some of the most famous artists throughout history, and much more.

You’ll also see St. George’s Chapel, which has been transformed into a royal wedding venue various times, and even holds the tombs of Henry VIII, Charles I, George VI, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, and many others. The architecture itself is beautiful, and an excellent example of late medieval Gothic architecture.

If you’d like, you can stroll across the River Thames into Eton – home of Eton College. We’ve already covered quite a bit about this college, but we do recommend checking it out.

6. Best Day Tour: Windsor Castle Tour from London with Lunch

• Duration: 6.5 hours
• Departure:  Victoria Coach Station, Victoria Coach Station, 164 Buckingham Palace Rd
• Departure Time: 7:30 AM
• Includes: One-course pub lunch, professional guide, transport by air-conditioned coach

Exploring and learning can really take a lot out of you, and what better way to take a tour then have one with a delicious lunch included to break up the walking? The Windsor Castle Tour from London with Lunch is exactly that, and more.

You’ll be able to see Windsor Castle, St. George’s Chapel, and other points of interest in one of the most convenient ways possible.

You and the rest of your group will meet at Victoria Coach Station bright and early, at 7:30 am. The 6.5-hour tour is great, because you’ll be in London in time for dinner or any other plans you may have.

The air-conditioned coach is very easy to relax in, with nice, big windows that are great for checking out the countryside as you travel to the historic town of Windsor.

As you head over, your guide will tell your group all about the castle, as well as any other notable places you may encounter.

If you don’t already know about it, you’ll learn about how it plays a very important role in British history and was originally built by William the Conqueror over 900 years ago.

It is one of the Queen’s official residences, and she sometimes still stays here so there’s always the chance she’ll be “in residence” while you explore around. Make sure to check out St. George’s Chapel as well, which is an incredible piece of Gothic architecture and holds the tombs of various monarchs.

Take some time to walk around the town of Windsor at your own pace. Set right next to the Thames, it’s absolutely beautiful, with charming little shops, pubs, and delicious food. Speaking of which, you’ll have lunch here at a pub with some traditional fish and chips!

7. Best Guided Tour: Afternoon Trip London to Windsor Castle

• Departure: Various options available
• Departure Time: 11:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM, 1:00 PM,
• Includes:  Hotel Pickup and drop-off, transport by private vehicle, audio guides, admission tickets, 2 hours of viewing time at Windsor

Are you on the search for a more compact tour? One that will pack as much in as possible but still allows you to fit it into a busy schedule? If so, the Afternoon Trip London to Windsor Castle should catch your eye!

With hotel pickup and drop-off offered, you don’t even have to spend time getting to a station or central pickup spot! However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a self-guided tour, with groups of up to 8 passengers.

Due to this design, it’s one of the best in terms of flexibility and is also a very comfortable way of getting out of the city and seeing this piece of history that’s still relevant today.

Do you ever feel rushed by tour guides? Now you won’t have to, as you can truly check out Windsor Castle at your own pace.

The audio guide is available in multiple languages and takes you through the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, Queen May’s Doll’s House, and much more!

Not only that, but this tour comes with tickets that allow you to bypass the lines which can save you around an hour!

We felt that this was a great experience for families, partners, and friends as you can talk amongst yourselves without interrupting a tour guide. Not to mention, with the smaller group sizes you’ll simply be able to move around easier and see more!

It also lets you choose how you want to spend your time, whether that’s in a certain wing of the castle or outdoors.

FAQs About Windsor Castle Tours

What are the hours of windsor castle.

Windsor Castle is open daily from 10:00am to 5:15pm, except on some public holidays and when the queen is residing there.

How much are tickets for Windsor Castle?

The tickets for Windsor Castle vary depending on the type of ticket and the age of the visitor. For adults the prices are about . You can buy tickets in advance or at the ticket office We recommend a skip-the-line guided tour to save time as the lines can be quite long.

What can I see and do at Windsor Castle?

There is a lot to see and do at Windsor Castle, so we would recommend allowing between 1½ and 2 hours to adequately see the castle. Some highlights are:

The State Apartments : These are the rooms where the Queen and her guests entertain. They are decorated with paintings, furniture and items from the Royal Collection.

St George’s Chapel : This is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, the oldest order of chivalry in the world. There are 10 monarchs buried here, including Henry VIII and Charles I.

The Changing of the Guard : This is a traditional ceremony where the soldiers that are dressed in red tunics and bearskin hats march from Victoria Barracks to Windsor Castle accompanied by a band. Then they change places with another group of soldiers who guard the Castle. The ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11:00 am.

The Semi-State Rooms : These are the most lavishly decorated rooms in the Castle. They are used by the Queen for official entertaining during the winter months. They include the Crimson Drawing Room, the White Drawing Room and the Green Drawing Room.

Why You Should Visit Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in England and you should go for several reasons. Here are five reasons you should visit Windsor Castle:

• Royal Residence : Windsor Castle has been one the official residences of the British Royal Family for over 900 years. It is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and has been the home of British kings and queens for centuries.
• History and Architecture : The castle is steeped in history and its architecture is a stunning blend of medieval, Georgian, and Victorian styles. Visitors can explore the State Apartments, the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, St. George’s Chapel and the impressive grounds of the castle.
• Changing of the Guard : The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place everyday at Windsor Castle, providing tourists with an opportunity to witness the pageantry of this historic event.
• Location : Windsor Castle is situated in the picturesque town of Windsor, which is a short train ride from London, making it an easy day trip from the city.
• Family-Friendly : The castle offers various family-friendly activities, such as the interactive family trail which takes visitors on a journey through the castle’s history and the Castle Quests, which are fun treasure hunts for kids.

Tips For Visiting Windsor Castle

• Plan your visit : Windsor Castle is popular so it’s a good idea to buy your tickets well in advance to avoid long lines. Tickets are available online or at the castle’s ticket office. We would recommend a “skip-the-line” tour.
• Wear comfortable shoes : The castle grounds are massive, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. The castle also has many staircases so keep this in mind when choosing your shoes.
• Check the schedule : The castle’s opening hours and tour schedules var, so be sure to check the website or call ahead to plan your visit. Also note that the castle is closed on certain days the year.
• Bring a camera : The castle and its grounds are incredibly beautiful so bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery.
• Respect the rules : Windsor Castle is a royal residence, so there are rules and regulations you must follow while on site. This includes: no photography inside certain areas, no eating or drinking inside the castle and no touching or leaning on any of the artifacts.
• Changing of the Guard : Try to time your visit at the same time as the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a spectacular display of British pageantry that takes place at the castle’s entrance.
• Allow plenty of time : There’s a lot to see and do at Windsor Castle so allow yourself time for your visit so you don’t have to rush. It normally takes a few hours to see everything.

Tour Guides

The Half-Day Trip to Windsor Castle is our Editor's Choice for the best tour of Windsor Castle from London.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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Scheduled Group - Tale of Two Palaces: Windsor & Hampton Court

Tour description.

A true royal tour: two palaces in one day! Morning visit to Hampton Court Palace, the best surviving home of King Henry VIII followed by an afternoon visit to Her Majesty The Queen's favourite countryside home, the spectacular Windsor Castle.

What's Included?

• Don't mind sharing with others? Our Semi-Private Small Group Tours run on select dates
• Small group numbers offer maximum benefit - more personal than overcrowded large buses
• All passengers depart together - no need to sit onboard for hours collecting passengers
• Exclusive: Not just a drive. ONLY tour to offer fully escorted visits.
• Professionally guided tour inside Hampton Court Palace and its spectacular gardens
• Visit Windsor, home to the largest inhabited castle in the world - Windsor Castle
• Optional Traditional Fish and Chips Lunch

Learn more about the London Magical Tours Difference

• Hampton Court Palace
• Kings Apartments
• Tudor Kitchens
• Gardens & Maze
• Windsor Town
• Windsor Castle
• Windsor State Apartments*
• St Georges Chapel**
• Optional Fish & Chips

SCHEDULED GROUP TOUR INFO

SCHEDULED GROUP TOUR - A Tale Of Two Palaces Tour: Windsor & Hampton Court Palace (8 Hours) Current Confirmed Dates: TBC Don't mind sharing with other travelers? Join one of our semi-private small group tours to discover two of the most historic palaces of the British royal family. Remember that our scheduled group tours are unique. Unlike the large bus tours, ours is not just a transfer service with free time at each location to "wander". Our tours include fully escorted guided visits with your group's professional tour guide throughout all the permitted areas at each location. We also don't keep our guests waiting to start a tour for up to 2 hours while the tour vehicle drives around collecting passengers from different hotels around London: our scheduled group tours start at the published times, with all the group departing together.

HAMPTON COURT PALACE

After your morning departure from London, guests arrive at the best surviving residence of King Henry VIII for a fully guided private group tour. Situated on the banks of the River Thames, Hampton Court Palace is a true Tudor masterpiece. Experience the splendours of Henry's court as your guide takes you through the majestic Tudor Kitchens, built to feed at least 600 people twice a day. Admire the King's State Apartments, including the largest and greatest medieval hall in England, before being escorted to discover the best of the Palace Gardens - Hampton Court Palace is widely recognised for having some of the most spectacular in England, 60 acres of formal gardens and 750 acres of royal parkland.

LUNCH AT WINDSOR

After an exclusive panoramic drive through scenic English countryside, your early afternoon begins with an optional traditional Fish and Chips lunch in the heart of historic Windsor. London Magical Tours guests exclusively benefit from a fast track food service - the food is freshly prepared in time for our group's arrival to help make the most of the day. See the Optional Extras tab for details.

WINDSOR CASTLE

Following on from lunch, guests are given the option to go on an escorted visit to Windsor Castle, the Queen's favourite countryside residence. Please note that guests who decline this option will instead be given free time to shop at Windsor town before meeting back with the group. A true fairy tale castle situated on a hill above the River Thames, Windsor Castle holds within its great walls almost 1000 years of history. Your professional guide will escort you around the largest inhabited Castle in the world, sharing with you the delights of the iconic Round Tower, the garden moat and the lower and upper wards. Guests will also receive an introduction to St Georges Chapel**, the recent location of several Royal weddnings, before being given leisure time to view Queen Mary's Dolls House, a perfect miniature palace built on a scale of 1 to 12 (including fully operating electrics and running water!) before paying a visit to the majestic State Apartments* with their huge array of treasures from across the world to see the locations used to welcome visiting Heads of State, including the famous St George's Hall, home of the Order of the Garter.

COLLECTION & RETURN LOCATIONS

Tour Start: The collection point is outside the Holiday Inn Kensington Forum, 97 Cromwell Road, London, SW7 4DN (2 min walk from Gloucester Road Underground Station - District, Circle and Piccadilly Lines) Tour Ends: Back at the Holiday Inn Kensington Forum (Gloucester Road Tube Station).

A Tale Of Two Palaces Tour: 9:45am to 5:45pm 9:30am - Boarding Opens at Holiday Inn Kensington Forum 9:45am - Tour Departs 10:30am - 12:45pm Hampton Court Palace 1:45pm - 2:30pm Lunch at Windsor 2:45pm - 4:45pm Windsor Castle 5:45pm - Return To Holiday Inn Kensington Forum

Sundays only, select dates during the year. Tour dates are regularly updated at the top of this webpage. Please contact us for latest availability. Travelling on other dates? Our Private Windsor Tours and Private Hampton Court Palace Tourse Tours are a great alternative option to discover the royal palaces with your own specialist tour guide; please contact us for availability.

Scheduled Group Tours are conducted in English only. If you require another language, our Private Windsor Tours and Private Hampton Court Palace Tours Tours are available in most languages through our specialist multi-lingual guide team, including Spanish, French, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin and Cantonese. Language surcharges apply. *No guiding is permitted inside the section of Queen Mary's Dolls House and State Apartments, unless on the exclusive private opening of Windsor Castle option at a Platinum Plus VIP level private tour. **External guided visit, St Georges Chapel closed for sightseeing on Sundays.

Tour Extras

Ticket options.

Windsor Castle Ticket

Meal options.

Fish and Chips Pub Option

Tour prices.

Scheduled group tour prices are per person. A minimum of 2 people are required per booking (solo travellers are welcome to join but will need to pay the fare for 2 people). Entry ticket to Hampton Court Palace and all taxes included in pricing below. Please add £32 to include ticket to Windsor Castle with fast track entry and £18 for fish and chips option for traditional pub lunch.

There are no hidden extras: prices include your private tour guide, your chauffeur, private vehicle, parking fees, collection and return to your central Manhattan hotel or Grand Central Station, and all taxes. We do not charge additional fees for card payments. Lunch/Entrance fees not included. Internet prices include a discount for online bookings. Prices are according to your party size. For example, the cost of the Half Day London Tour is $449 for a party of 5, which works out at $89.80 per person. At less than $90 pp, private tours are amazing value, offering a personal experience for less than the cost of bus tours

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Online price (save £20).

More than 10 passengers? Benefit from our group savings for 11 to 100+ passengers: please see Private London Group Tours.

More than 5 passengers? Benefit from our group savings for 6 to 100+ passengers:please see Private London Group Tours. On transit through London? See Our London Layover Tours

Tour Comments

This was such a fun experience for our family. We only had a day to spend outside London and this small group visit was the ideal way to visit these two historic royal homes. The fish and chips was brilliant too. Would do it again in a heartbeat.

Lamont Family, USA on the Scheduled Tale of Two Palaces Tour of Windsor & Hampton Court

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The Complete Guide to Visiting Windsor | Things to Do, Where to Stay & Eat, & Top Tips

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 28, 2024

The final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II is one of the top places to visit in the UK. Windsor Castle is the major attraction in this town on the River Thames, but it has much more to offer. Other reasons to visit include pretty parkland and the cobbled streets lined with lovely pubs and independent shops. 

Visit Windsor, and you could also take the Long Walk, hop on a boat trip, see the Crooked House, witness the Changing of the Guard, dine out at a historic pub or smart restaurant, and much more. 

This ultimate guide to visiting Windsor shares a wealth of information on subjects such as how long you’ll need and when to visit the castle, walking distances, places to stay, where to eat, and taking tours – both within the town and from London. 

Read on to learn all you should know about Windsor – before you go!

Getting there

How long to allow for your visit, buying tickets – in advance or on the day, opening days and times, things to see, changing of the guard, take the long walk through windsor great park, join a jump-on, jump-off bus tour, book a boat trip on the thames , hop into a horse-drawn carriage, see the crooked house of windsor, dr. choc’s chocolate making workshops, pick up fresh produce at windsor farm shop, wander around windsor & royal borough museum, visit other royal residences, shop til you drop, best tours of windsor, sir christopher wren, de vere beaumont estate, royal adelaide hotel, macdonald windsor hotel, where to eat in windsor, what will you do in windsor.

🏆 Best tours and tickets for visiting Windsor

• Discover Real London – Royal Windsor Day Tour (Private day tour)
• From London – Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets (Group tour)
• Hop-on hop-off bus tour
• Windsor Castle Entrance Ticket
• Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm

All You Need to Know About Visiting Windsor Castle

If you want to know your options regarding getting to Windsor, then check out our Windsor Castle visitor guide to find out how to reach it by train, car, coach, or organised tour.

There are two train stations in Windsor – Windsor & Eton Riverside, by River Thames, or Windsor & Eton Central, in the centre of town. Both are a short 10 minutes’ walk from the castle. 

If visiting from central London take the direct train from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside in just over 1 hour.

Good to know – OYSTER CARDS are NOT accepted on this route – you will need to purchase a train ticket!)

The next thing you need to know about visiting Windsor Castle is how long to spend there. Though the Royal Collection Trust advises allowing at least 90 minutes to an hour, we reckon you should spend at least two to three hours there.

On a sunny day, you might want to allow extra time to linger over a picnic in the grounds, too. 

So do you need to pre book your tickets to Windsor Castle?

You can choose between booking in advance and simply turning up on the day. When you do the latter, you’ll be allocated the next available time slot for admission, which is of course subject to availability. If you buy tickets from Get Your Guide , you can claim a full refund when cancelling 24 hours or more in advance, should your plans change.

If you purchase a London Pass note that entrance is only after 1:00 pm and is subject to availability on the day.

Something you should know before heading to Windsor Castle is about when the castle is closed. It opens between Thursday and Monday, so is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The castle is open during all seasons, throughout the year, though the popular St. George’s Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays. 

However, as it’s a working royal palace, Windsor Castle can often close at short notice. So do check before you go to avoid disappointment! Opening hours are generally from 10 am to 4.15 or 5.15 pm. Find out more about Windsor Castle opening times in this guide . 

Windsor Castle’s top attractions include the State Apartments, the Semi-State Rooms, Queen Mary’s Doll’s House, the Moat Room, and of course St. George’s Chapel. 

The Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle is when the Household Troops hand over the watch to the next soldiers. It occurs at about 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Check the Household Division schedule here before travelling if you want to witness this colourful ceremony.

Top 10 Other Things to Do in Windsor

If you want to build your own one-day Windsor itinerary, then why not choose from the following sights to see and things to do? It’s easy to do these as well as – or instead of – visiting the castle, as everything is fairly close together.  

You can see the Long Walk from the State Entrance of Windsor Castle. It stretches for around two-and-a-half miles, and comprises an impressive, tree-lined route. King Charles II created the walk between 1682 and 1685, and following the route will also take you through Deer Park. The latter offers around 500 red deer and ancient oak trees.

Book a ticket for the hop-on, hop-off bus in Windsor, and you could see the sights from a double-decker bus. As well as the castle, you can see the likes of Eton College – the UK’s most prestigious private school – and Windsor Great Park. 

Jump on and off as you like to explore at each of the 10 stops. Or complete the entire loop in as a little as 45 minutes. 

Click here to book a City Sightseeing hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Windsor

A lovely way to see more of the Windsor area – and to experience the River Thames – is to take a boat trip. We can personally recommend doing this! One reputable operator is French Brothers Ltd, who are based at the Clewer Boathouse. 

You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride along the Long Walk for a very special way to see Windsor. These are operated by Windsor Carriages, and you can make you feel like royalty!

This 1687 building in central Windsor was rebuilt in the 1700s, yet remains very off-kilter. The tall, narrow, Grade II listed structure has three storeys, and bay windows at the front and rear. Apparently the wood used in its construction warped as it dried out, causing the house to lean. 

In its time, it’s said that the Crooked House on the High Street in central Windsor has been an antique shop, a butcher’s, and a brewery. Today it’s England’s oldest tea house, and a great place to eat in Windsor.  

A fun and delicious diversion in Windsor is Dr. Choc’s, a chocolate factory and cafe. You can take an express workshop here to make a trio of chocolate bars to take home. 

Click here to book Dr. Choc’s Express Chocolate Making Workshop

If you want to enjoy a different sort of shopping experience in Windsor, visit Windsor Farm Shop. It lies on the fringe of the Home Park, within the Windsor Estate. It has a cafe, and sells all sorts of local goods, including meat, fruit and vegetables, freshly baked goods, and preserves. 

You could pick up a picnic here to enjoy in the castle grounds, or at Windsor Great Park.

Delve into local history at Windsor & Royal Borough Museum. The small depository is housed at Windsor Guildhall, which is packed with original, character features. You can learn about local history at this family-friendly museum via collections, exhibits, and interactive displays.

While in Windsor, you really can overdose on royalty if you want to! Head to the 17th century, Grade I listed Frogmore House, which isn’t open to visitors, but you can of course see it from the outside. This has housed Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie, plus many other royals historically.

Other buildings to see include Prince Andrew’s 30-room home the Royal Lodge. There’s also Fort Belvedere, which still belongs to the Crown, but is now rented out privately. 

There are lots of lovely, independent stores in Windsor where you can pick up unique gifts. Whether for yourself or others, find a one-off item to wear or take home while shopping in Windsor. 

If you want to see Windsor the easy, no-stress way, then taking a guided tour from London can be the best way to go. 

Day trips typically include all transport, last between 6.5 and 11 hours, and may include other locations – such as Stonehenge or Bath – as well as Windsor. Some also cover London landmarks , like Buckingham Palace or Westminster.  

Why not check out our preferred partner Discover Real London Black Cab Tours who do a Discover Royal Windsor Tour – you will be sure of an amazing day out with Ollie and his team.

Find out all about the best Windsor tours from London here . You can also discover the best guided tours within Windsor in the same article. 

Where to Stay in Windsor

If you want to enjoy an overnight stay in Windsor, here are our recommendations. 

This four star riverside property is located in the heart of Windsor, so it’s within walking distance of the train station and castle. It’s got a restaurant with a terrace for dining by the river, and 133 guest rooms. The historic 17th century building also has the wow factor for sure.

Click here to book a room at the Sir Christopher Wren

The Castle Hotel is situated opposite Windsor Castle, and offers four star accommodation. It’s convenient for everything, and provides both character and luxury. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from both train stations, slap-bang in the town centre, and has a newly-opened restaurant.

Click here to book a room at The Castle in Windsor

If you don’t mind being just two to three miles from central Windsor, you get access to over 40 acres of landscaped grounds. De Vere Beaumont Estate offers four star facilities, including two restaurants and an indoor pool. 

Click here to book a room at the De Vere Beaumont Estate

Royal Adelaide Hotel in Windsor is right opposite the Long Walk, and close to the castle and other attractions. The elegant 19th century building offers a range of boutique accommodation, plus a bar and restaurant.

Click here to book a room at the Royal Adelaide Hotel

When location matters, the Macdonald Windsor Hotel is unbeatable. It’s right by the castle on Windsor High Street, and offers four star stays in individually styled rooms. Accommodation is comfortable, and there’s a restaurant and 24-hour room service.

Click here to book a room at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel

Here are a few suggestions for a memorable meal out in Windsor. You could also ask at your hotel for a local’s recommendation. 

• The Ivy – A contemporary, beautifully located brasserie from a leading UK restaurant brand (and look at their gorgeous bathroom!)
• Windsor Farm Shop – Meat, pies and other produce from the royal estate with a cafe and great deli
• Leaf at the Castle – Locally sourced produce and a fantastic afternoon tea
• Meimo – Tasty Moroccan cuisine
• The Boatman – A historic pub on the river offering home-cooked meals and a fab Sunday roast
• Honest Burgers Windsor – Popular burger chain

As you can see, there’s a lot more to Windsor than the famous royal castle. This compact, historic town is very walkable indeed, and easy to reach by public transport from London and other locations. 

Whether you tour the castle, join a Thames boat tour, take the Long Walk, make chocolate, dine out in style, shop til you drop or stay over, you’re guaranteed to have a great time in Windsor!

READ NEXT – Easy day trips from London by train

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• Evan Evans Tours
• Day Tours From London
• Buckingham Palace & Windsor Castle

Buckingham Palace & Windsor Castle Tour

Experience two of Britain's finest Royal residences on this fantastic full-day tour to Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle . Get a rare glimpse inside the King of England's official residence at Buckingham Palace before heading to Windsor, the largest, continuously occupied European castle and ancestral home of the monarchy. 

Next, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Windsor Castle, the fortress that stands as the largest continuously inhabited castle in Europe and the cherished ancestral home of the monarchy. From the iconic State Apartments to the St. George's Chapel, each corner of Windsor Castle echoes with history, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the royal past. Join us for an unforgettable day of royal heritage, where every moment promises to enrich your understanding of Britain's majestic legacy.

The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace

Our expert tour guide will be waiting to greet you at the entrance to the Queen's Gallery (the art museum located just around the facade of Buckingham Palace). The Queens Gallary is a 10 minute walk from London Victoria Station and Victoria Underground Station. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour (meeting at 9:00 am and the tour starts at 9:15 am).

Buckingham Palace serves as the official London residence of His Majesty The King and is one of the few remaining working royal palaces in the world today. Each summer, when the Palace is not being used in its official capacity, visitors can enjoy the 19 magnificent State Rooms that provide the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining by members of the Royal Family.

The rooms are furnished with many of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck, sculptures by Canova, exquisite examples of Sèvres porcelain, and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world.

Visitors to Buckingham Palace's summer opening will see the White Drawing Room, perhaps the most beautiful of all the State Rooms with its spectacular crystal chandelier, the Music Room, where guests are presented on the occasion of a State Visit, and the Throne Room, which was the setting for the formal photographs following the wedding of Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales.

The town of Windsor is best known for its historical links to the British royal family, and it is suitably steeped in pageantry and history. Towering over the rest of the town is Windsor Castle , the ancestral home of the English and later British monarchy and the largest inhabited castle in the world.

It has been the family home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years and is today one of the official residences of His Majesty The King. Occupying over 10.5 hectares, the Castle offers a varied day out for visitors, including a visit to the magnificent State Apartments and St George's Chapel . The Castle's State Apartments are furnished with some of the finest works from the Royal Collection, reflecting the changing tastes of the Castle's royal occupants, particularly those of Charles II and George IV.

Among the masterpieces on display are paintings by Holbein, Rubens, and Van Dyck, Sèvres porcelain, and exquisite English and French furniture. Many of the works of art are still in the historic settings for which they were first collected or commissioned by the kings and queens who have lived at Windsor.

London Victoria Train Station

Your tour will finish outside London Victoria Train Station, which is centrally located and easily accessible by national rail and underground. It is serviced by the Victoria, District and Circle Lines and is in Travel Zone 1.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Tour Starts: 9:15 AM, Queens Gallery entrance (meeting time 9:00 AM)
• Tour Finishes: approx. 6:30 PM, London Victoria Train Station
• St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle is closed to visitors on Sundays. On occasion, the State Apartments may be closed
• We encourage guests with e-tickets to bring these on their smart devices
• Guests are provided with personal audio headsets so distancing can be maintained when listening to the live commentary
• To enter Buckingham Palace, there will be an airport-style security check, and bags larger than 45cm x 20cm x 30cm are not permitted
• Mobility Access at Buckingham Palace: Unfortunately, we are unable to make bookings for guests wishing wheelchair or step-free access. Visits to Buckingham Palace need to be made directly with Buckingham Palace
• The afternoon Windsor Castle part of the tour departs from Evan Evans's office at 1:00 PM. (please arrive at 12:45 PM to check in)
• Transfer between Buckingham Palace and Evan Evans Tours is not provided (it is a 10-15 min walk)
• Enjoy a rare glimpse of the inside of Buckingham Palace
• See important rooms, including the Throne Room and White Drawing Room
• Discover Windsor Castle, the 900-year-old ancestral home of the British monarchy

What's Included

Expert guide, personal audio headset, superior coach, wi-fi on-board, usb charging on-board, entrances (buckingham palace & windsor castle), what's excluded, hotel pick-up & drop-off.

• No Cancellation Fees
• No Change Fees
• No Booking Fees
• Your Money is Protected - Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the day of departure
• Our team, including our guides and drivers, have been trained in our enhanced hygiene procedures; please refer to our Travel Health page for more information

For full terms, see Our Flexible Promise to You

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From £129.00 per ADULT

• Tours from London - Out of London Tours >

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Bath Tour from London

Our Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath day tour departing from Central London is a great way to visit some of England’s most impressive attractions. The tour includes an expert guide, entrance fees and transportation in a luxury coach with wifi, and is specially designed to optimize your touring experience. Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Stonehenge and Bath and admire 900 years of royal history at Windsor Castle. Our Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Bath tour is available every day of the week departing from Central London. It’s a magical day out where you’ll get a feel for the sights, sounds and tastes of England.

Our tour operates with guiding in English every day. We also have departures with guiding in Japanese, Chinese and Spanish on selected days of the week.

• Depart Central London at 08:00am. Drive to Windsor Castle onboard a luxury coach with a professional tour guide.
• Discover Windsor Castle, which is a Royal home of King Charles III. Explore the amazing State Rooms fit for a King or Queen
• Also, visit St George’s Chapel. This is where Queen Elizabeth II and her husband were laid to rest.
• Arrive at Stonehenge and see the world-famous stone circles. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most mysterious places in the world…over 5,000 years old, and still nobody is quite sure why it was built or by whom.
• Visit Bath which is a UNESCO World Heritage city. Enjoy a walking tour through the narrow cobbled streets where you’ll see the famous Georgian architecture. You’ll also have time to visit Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge
• Choose to visit the Roman Baths, one of England’s most popular attractions. Whilst you can no longer take a dip in the water, you can admire this impressive Roman structure and have the opportunity to sip the waters in the Pump Room
• Return to London at approximately 8 pm

NB: All times are approximate and may vary according to traffic conditions

TOUR DESCRIPTION:

Windsor castle  & st george’s chapel.

Windsor Castle Drawing Room

Our first stop of the day is Windsor Castle, one of the most impressive castles in England, with over 900 years of history. This is a Royal residence of King Charles III, and is rumoured to have been the favourite residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

Explore the elegant State Apartments with paintings by Leonardo Da Vinci and Rembrandt. See Queen Mary’s Doll House, which is the largest and most spectacular in the world. Enter St George’s Chapel, which is the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. On most Thursdays and Saturdays, you can watch the Windsor Castle Changing of the Guard Ceremony.

The Undercroft Café, named after Edward III’s medieval Undercroft, is one of the oldest surviving spaces in Windsor Castle where you can enjoy coffee and cake.

Please note that St. George’s Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays as services are held throughout the day. Worshippers are welcome to attend the services.

Please note that Windsor Castle is closed to visitors on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. On these days, enjoy a guided walking tour of the pretty town of Windsor instead.

Stonehenge:

Depart Windsor Castle and travel to Stonehenge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its ancient stone circles that date back to Neolithic times. Today it is considered among the most mystical places in the world, and it’s hard not to be impressed by the extraordinary scale of the site. Learn more about how and why Stonehenge was built from your guide. You’ll also have time to explore the visitor’s centre with displays of over 250 archaeological objects. Enter the recreated neolithic village to imagine what life would have looked like 5,000 years ago.

There is also a cafe, which is an ideal place to enjoy lunch, and a souvenir shop where you can receive a 25% discount on Stonehenge guidebooks. There is also a free audio guide that you can download onto your smartphone from the app store.

The final stop of our day tour from London is the ancient city of Bath, where the Romans first built a spa in 70 AD. Choose to visit The Roman Baths, which were used in ancient times by the Romans to worship the Goddess Sulis Minerva as they bathed in the hot natural spring water. Today, whilst no bathing is allowed, guests can walk the Roman pavement, see the surviving structure and even sample some of the spring water.

You’ll have time to explore this UNESCO World Heritage City. See the stunning Georgian architecture, walk the pretty streets, and enjoy views of the River Avon. Highlights of Bath include the Royal Crescent and the Assembly Rooms, and you’ll have time to see Bath Abbey, founded in the 7th Century, and Pulteney Bridge. There are also many pubs and also cafes where you can enjoy an English afternoon tea.

Bath was used as a filming location in the making of the Netflix series Bridgerton, and you might notice some familiar places from the show as you walk around the city.

Tour includes:

• Transportation in a luxury coach with air conditioning, free USB chargers and wifi
• A professional guide
• Tour involves moderate walking
• Enjoy a 25% discount off Stonehenge guidebooks. Show your given wristband to get the discount

Tour excludes:

• Entrance fees. You can choose to add entrance fees on the Book Now page.
• Gratuities (optional)
• Audioguide: You can download the Stonehenge Audio tour app onto your phone. Available in: English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian, Dutch, Polish, Korean, Brazilian, and Portuguese

Additional Tour Info:

• Our tour departs at 08:00 am from Stop Z6, outside 52 Grosvenor Gardens, London, SW1W 0BD. Check-in time 7:30 am.
• You will spend approximately 90 minutes at each location – Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath
• It ends at around 8pm with dropoff just a 3 minute walk from Gloucester Road Underground Station. This station is in Zone 1 and is three stops Eastbound on the Circle Line or the District Line to Victoria. The Piccadilly Line also runs through Gloucester Road, and is only 5 stops to Piccadilly Circus.
• On Sundays, St George’s Chapel is closed, so you’ll have more time to explore the Windsor Castle grounds
• On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Windsor Castle is closed. If you wish to visit the castle, please select any other day of the week on our booking form.
• On rare occasions when the State Apartments at Windsor Castle are closed, Queens Mary’s Doll’s House and the Drawings Gallery will remain open
• Cancel bookings up to 24 hours before travel to receive a full refund.

Tour Booking

More about stonehenge:.

Stonehenge is located near the cathedral town of Salisbury. It is one of the most famous Neolithic sites in the world renowned for its ring of stone circles. It is one of the most complex Neolithic monuments in Britain and includes many burial mounds.

More about Windsor Castle:

Windsor Castle is famous for being associated with the British royal family. It is in fact one of their royal residences. Built after the invasion of the Normans in the 11 th  century, it is considered by many to be one of the finest pieces of architecture in the United Kingdom, expressing exceptional Georgian and Gothic taste.

More about Bath:

The city of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the prettiest cities in England and makes for a wonderful day out from London. The city was founded by the Romans and their impact on Bath is still felt to this day. In the 18th Century, the town developed to feature lots of Georgian architecture which is an instantly identifiable feature of the city. Today, visitors love discovering the city’s past, as well as exploring the vibrant shops, markets, restaurants and cafes. 

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How To Visit Windsor Castle in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Angel Castellanos Last Updated: February 21, 2024

Historic fortress, royal palace, and family home, Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of the British monarchy and the longest-inhabited castle in the world. Located just outside London, it welcomes over a million visitors every year, so you’ll need to prepare for your visit. To help you out, we’ve prepared this guide with everything you need to know about how to visit Windsor Castle.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our guide to London for more planning resources, our top London and Windsor Castle tours for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in London .

Visiting Windsor Castle: What We’ll Cover

If you’re planning a trip to London, you won’t want to miss Windsor Castle. You don’t have to love royalty to appreciate it. Any lover of art, history, or architecture will enjoy exploring this magnificent castle.

The state apartments have been open since 1848 when Queen Victoria opened them to the public. Various rooms are filled with priceless works of art by the old masters. St George’s chapel is one of the finest examples of the English Gothic Perpendicular style. The castle itself is also a testament to 11th-century Norman military strategy.

There’s a fascinating display of the different gifts to Her Majesty The Queen. This collection of foreign artifacts comes from the far reaches of the globe. Also, there are few places in the world where you can be surrounded by that many Holbeins, Van Dycks, and Reubens in just one room. Convinced? Here’s what you need to know about how to visit Windsor Castle.

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• How to get there
• What to see at Windsor Castle
• Guided tour options
• Facts and history of Windsor Castle
• Where to eat nearby

Not ready to book a tour? See if a Windsor Castle tour is worth it .

Windsor Castle Opening Hours and Tickets

Opening Hours of Windsor Castle:

The castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays as well as on December 25 and 26. Opening times vary seasonally and many state occasions take place at Windsor Castle, so it could be closed to the public on short notice. It’s best to check the official website ahead of your visit.

• From 1 March to 31 October: 10 am to 5:15 pm, last admission 4 pm.
• From November 1 to February 28: 10 am to 4:15 pm, last admission 3 pm.

Opening Hours of St George’s Chapel:

St. George’s Chapel is a working church with a different schedule. For the most up-to-date information, and for times of worship or services, check the website.

Hours: The Chapel is open to ticketed visitors of the Castle Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. St George’s Chapel also closes early on December 23 and 24 at 1 pm.

Pro Tip: One of the best ways to experience the chapel is to attend a service. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, it’s the only way to see the chapel. You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the service. If you do attend a service in the chapel, line up 30 minutes before the service along with Castle Hill on the side of the Castle. 

I was there recently on a Sunday and attended a Mattins service, which was mainly organ music and a capella singing. The music was divine and it made the Gothic architecture come alive. To see what my visit was like, check out the stories on my Instagram . 

You can buy tickets either at the ticket offices on-site or online. We recommend booking tickets well in advance.

Admission: £28 per adult | £18 for 18-24 year olds | £15.50 Children 5-16 | Free >5

Family Pricing : £60.50 for 2 Adults and 3 Children.

Pro Tip:  Skip the line by booking your ticket online ahead of time or by joining one of our  small group tours of London and Windsor —you’ll get more out of your visit. 

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Windsor Castle tour is worth it .

How Long To Spend at Windsor Castle

Short Answer: 2 hours.

You’ll need a minimum of 2 hours at Windsor Castle, but 3 hours is best. There’s a lot of ground to cover and it’s a lovely trip out of London. In fact, it would be a good idea to spend a whole morning at Windsor Castle if you have the time, so you can see it without rushing.

Pro Tip: The best way to approach the top things to see at Windsor Castle is to divide the castle into two geographical sections, the upper and lower wards. I like to see the State Apartments inside the castle first, then see St George’s Chapel in the lower ward afterward.

How To Get To Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is about an hour and twenty minutes west of London near Heathrow Airport. The small town around the castle is also called Windsor. You can easily get there by car, train, or bus (called a motor coach in the UK).

From Paddington station in Central London, take any GWR train (GWR) headed to Slough. Purchase tickets from a machine at the station or on the GWR train app. From Slough, take the next train to Windsor & Eton Central, a 10-minute train ride.

Exit the train station through a gallery of shops, and you’ll see Windsor Castle in front of you across the street. It is an easy 3-minute walk from the train station.

By Car or Bus (Coach)

It could take anywhere from 50 minutes to 2 hours by car, depending on London traffic and how long it takes to get out of the city center. If you’re driving from London to Oxford, Blenheim Palace, Stonehenge, or Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey), Windsor Castle is on the way, just on the other side of Heathrow Airport.

Pro Tip: If you do drive, get there early to find nearby parking. Parking fills up by noon.

Address:  Windsor SL4 1NJ, United Kingdom

Check Out Our Best Day Trips from London

Top-Rated Tour

The Magic of Harry Potter: Warner Bros Studios & Walking Tour of London

On this full-day Harry Potter experience, immerse yourself in the world of witchcraft and wizardry. With your expert, Harry Potter loving guide, explore the filming sights in London before heading to Warner Bros Studios by Private Coach. See the real Hogwarts, Sorting Hat and more on this memorable experience.

Starting at €149

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London

Join this full-day trip from London for the ultimate day through British history and culture with an expert guide. At Windsor Castle, skip the lines and see how the English Royals live. At Stonehenge, immerse yourself in the mystery of the 4000-year-old Neolithic structures. Lastly in Bath, take in the Roman Baths from the first century AD, the best symbol of Roman Britain.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our best London tours to take and why .

What To See At Windsor Castle

When you get to Windsor Castle, be sure to see these famous monuments, artworks, and rooms. For a more detailed list with in-depth descriptions and images, check out our article on the top things to see at Windsor Castle .

• Statue of Queen Victoria
• The Round Tower
• The Equestrian Statue of Charles II
• The Waterloo Chamber
• The Garter Throne Room
• St. George’s Hall
• Queen Catherine of Braganza fresco by Verrio
• Charles I by Van Dyck
• Elizabeth I by William Scrots
• Henry VIII by Holbein

Windsor Castle Tour Options

If you are planning a trip to London, or a visit to Windsor Castle, you should highly consider a guided tour. The line-skipping benefits are fantastic, but there is much more value than that. Our professional guides will not only sort out all of the logistics but also inspire and inform to make history come to life. Our experts will discuss the essential points of British history and culture to help you make your trip fun.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip from London (12 hours)

On this day trip from London, sit back and relax as you are transported to England’s most iconic sites. You’ll have a 2-hour stop at the magnificent Windsor Castle, visit the over 4,000-year-old Stonehenge, and enjoy free time to explore the once-important Roman city of Bath.

In just one day, you’ll enjoy a journey through thousands of years of British history. This tour takes all the stress out of the logistics that go into visiting these bucket-list sites, ending back in London after an action-packed day.

See tour itinerary, price, and description

Facts and History Of Windsor Castle

• William the Conqueror built Windsor Castle shortly after his invasion in 1066.
• The location is a strategic military position overlooking the Thames Valley, defending the West.
• It is positioned 23 miles west of London, or a day’s march from the Tower of London in the days of William the Conqueror.
• Windsor Castle is the oldest inhabited castle in the world.
• King Henry I was the first to live in the castle in 1110, and it has been home to 39 Monarchs.
• 10 Monarchs are buried in St. George’s Chapel, with more Royals underneath the Royal Vault.
• Major renovations happened in the 14th century under Edward III, the 17th century under Charles II, and the 19th century under George IV.
• St. George’s Chapel is a Royal Peculiar, meaning it’s under the direct jurisdiction of the Queen.
• Windsor Castle is the location for Royal Weddings, with the first taking place in 1121.
• Windsor Castle and St. George’s Chapel is the home of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, the older order of chivalry in England.

Where To Eat Nearby

A trip to Windsor Castle will take you outside London’s city limits, so you’ll want to grab a bite to eat before you keep exploring. Here are a few of our top picks. For more options, see our guide to the best restaurants near Windsor Castle .

Cinnamon Café : £ | Coffee Shop —Located inside the Windsor Royal Station, it’s a great place to start your day that serves some of the best brunch and afternoon tea in the area.

The Boatman : ££ | Riverside Terrace —One of the most historical restaurants near Windsor Castle, this gastropub offers visitors a beautiful view of the River Thames. Their riverside terrace is a relaxing place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

The Duchess Of Cambridge Pub : ££ | English Pub Food —Open late and serving from an all-day menu, enjoy the feeling of an old-time pub, despite the modern decor. For a traditional English pub meal, order the Steak and McMullen’s Ale pie.

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Where To Stay in London

Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

About Angel Castellanos

Angel Castellanos, www.AngelsTravelLounge.com , is a multi-media travel expert and travel journalist that has appeared on BBC News, Los Angeles Times, Fox News, ABC, NBC, CBS, Univision, Frommers Radio, USA Today. Angel is also an acclaimed speaker appearing as a featured travel expert with the Travel & Adventure Show and New York Times Travel Show. 80+ Countries, 5 Continents and counting. He's passionate about travel to Europe, especially to Italy & France, countries he's visited every year of his adult life.

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Royal Windsor

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Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Your day-long adventure starts when you board your motorcoach at Southampton Docks for a guided drive through beautiful English countryside to the heart of picturesque Berkshire. One of the late Queen Elizabeth's favored residences, Windsor Castle was built after the Norman Invasion by William the Conqueror, and is the longest-occupied palace in Europe. Walk through the serene courtyard, which is flanked by St. George's Chapel, to the breath-taking State Apartments. These elaborate rooms feature painted ceilings, panelled walls, large fireplaces, antique furniture and original paintings. Wander through the ceremonial rooms which were used by the Queen to entertain visiting Heads of State, and also the beautiful 15th century St. George's Chapel, where Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest in 2022. Independently explore Windsor town, which boasts quaint Georgian shops, and enjoy lunch in one of the traditional pubs. View the Guildhall building which was completed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1689.

Special Notes:

Child price:.

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Depart from ship for a guided tour of Windsor Castle

Free time for shopping and sightseeing in windsor town (lunch on own), reboard your motorcoach and return to your ship.

The 5 Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace

O n a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Check online for a current schedule of the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area, while sharing knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the Victoria Palace Theatre. The outings end at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

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Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour

Price: From $161

Duration: 8.5 hours

Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle.

Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines.

The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m.

Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection. The ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

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Best of London Tour Including Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

Price: From $144; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee

Duration: 9 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here, you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

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London: Explore the Parks and Palaces on a Morning Bike Tour

Price: From $37

Duration: 3.5 hours

Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were impressed by the guides' knowledge. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

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The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $482

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

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• The Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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King Charles orders all working royals to attend his party — during Prince Harry’s Invictus Games service

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King Charles III snubbed his son Prince Harry once again by throwing a mandatory party for royal family members during the Duke of Sussex’s Invictus Games service just a few miles away.

“King Charles ordered all working royals (including Princess Anne and Prince Edward, and excluding Prince William and Kate Middleton) to attend a garden party for 5,000 people at Buckingham Palace taking place at the same time,” veteran royal reporter Tom Sykes of the Daily Beast reported .

Charles’ lavish soirée took place Wednesday on the great lawn of the palace in London, while William threw an impressive event at Windsor Castle earlier in the day.

Meanwhile, Harry rolled up solo to his event at St. Paul’s Cathedral without any royal relatives showing up to support him.

Page Six is told that the duke did extend an invitation to his estranged brother, William, and sister-in-law, Middleton, who has been out of the spotlight while undergoing chemotherapy for cancer .

Damian Lewis was the most notable guest to take part in Harry’s ceremony. The actor recited William Ernest Henley’s poem “Invictus,” which the prince’s organization is named after.

“Charles has made it quite clear he is ready to be friendly and supportive to Harry in his capacity as a private person, as his dad, but he is not going to throw the weight of the institution behind Invictus again,” a former courtier told Sykes.

“This all seems very logical inside the palace bubble, but the trouble is that people who don’t particularly care about such things, who are dimly aware that the royals spend their days visiting community centers and opening supermarkets, are going to wonder why they are boycotting this terrific charity that is headed by the king’s son.”

The insider said many people believe the family’s absence from Harry’s event is a “classic example” of them “cutting off their nose to spite their face.”

“Invictus is clearly exactly the kind of organization the royal family should be supporting,” the courtier added. “If a bridge is ever going to be built [between Harry and the royals], Invictus is the bridgehead to build it from, and they should get on and do it.”

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A military source agreed that it is a shame Charles has distanced himself from the Invictus Games, which works with wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women.

“Some people feel it’s not fair to deny the foundation proper royal endorsement. It was explicitly set up as an organization endorsed by the royal family, but now it’s not,” the source noted.

The father-son duo did not see each other during Harry’s return home to London, signaling that they are still working through their issues amid Charles’ cancer battle .

Earlier this week, a rep for Harry said the reigning monarch was too busy to meet with his youngest son .

Harry, 39, and Charles, 75, have been on the outs since the “Spare” author resigned from his royal duties in 2020 and moved to California, where he and his wife, Meghan Markle, have been building a media empire.

While Harry has remained dedicated to helping injured veterans, Markle, 42, recently launched her own lifestyle company , American Riviera Orchard.

The Sussexes’ rep did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

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