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Old Windsor

4.6
·491k reviews·Old Windsor, United Kingdom

Explore the historic Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, and wander through the scenic Windsor Great Park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Old Windsor - Image 1

Old Windsor

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historic Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, and wander through the scenic Windsor Great Park.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A truly majestic experience, stepping back in time at Windsor Castle is a must-do day trip!"

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TIP

Train to Windsor is Easy

Self-travel by train to Windsor is a great option from London.

Stonehenge vs. Windsor

Windsor is often easier to access by train than Stonehenge, which requires further travel from its station.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle

Central Windsor

Explore the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, a royal residence for over 900 years.

The Long Walk

The Long Walk

Windsor Great Park

A magnificent tree-lined avenue offering breathtaking views towards Windsor Castle.

St. George's Chapel

St. George's Chapel

Windsor Castle

Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture and the final resting place of many monarchs.

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Planning Your Visit

Train Travel to Windsor

Getting to Old Windsor by train is straightforward. The main station is Windsor & Eton Central, accessible via London Paddington. Consider booking tickets in advance for potential savings, especially during peak travel times. Reddit

Winter Excursion Considerations

Visiting Old Windsor in winter offers fewer crowds but requires checking opening times as they can be reduced. Dress warmly, as much of the experience involves outdoor exploration. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather, blooming gardens
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Parking in Old Windsor?

Train to Windsor is Easy

Self-travel by train to Windsor is a great option from London. Reddit

Stonehenge vs. Windsor

Windsor is often easier to access by train than Stonehenge, which requires further travel from its station. Reddit

reddit.com

Restaurant suggestions in and around Windsor, UK?

reddit.com

If I only have time to visit one, which is the better option: Windsor or Stonehenge?

Book Castle Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing Windsor Castle tickets in advance. TikTok

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the castle and park. Instagram

Tips

from all over the internet

Train to Windsor is Easy

Self-travel by train to Windsor is a great option from London. Reddit

Stonehenge vs. Windsor

Windsor is often easier to access by train than Stonehenge, which requires further travel from its station. Reddit

Book Castle Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing Windsor Castle tickets in advance. TikTok

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the castle and park. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Windsor Castle's historical significance and grandeur, with many highlighting the beauty of St. George's Chapel and the State Apartments. The Long Walk in Windsor Great Park is also a frequent favorite for its scenic views. Some find the ticket price a bit steep and note that photography is restricted indoors.

What People Like

Majestic castle grounds
Rich history
Stunning architecture

What People Dislike

Indoor photo restrictions
Ticket price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common route is to take a train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central. The journey typically takes around 30-60 minutes. You can also travel from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside. Reddit

Yes, Windsor is generally easier to access by train. Stonehenge's nearest train station is about 10 miles away, requiring additional transport. Reddit

Yes, there are direct train services from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central. Some services from London Waterloo also go to Windsor & Eton Riverside. Reddit

The train is the most convenient public transport option. Taxis are also available from Windsor & Eton Central station to reach specific points in Old Windsor. TikTok

Absolutely! Windsor is a very popular day trip destination from London, easily reachable by train for a full day of exploration. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices for Windsor Castle vary, but typically an adult ticket is around £28-£30. It's always best to check the official Royal Collection Trust website for the most up-to-date pricing and to book in advance. TikTok

It is highly recommended to book your Windsor Castle tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and potentially avoid queues. TikTok

Opening hours for Windsor Castle can vary seasonally and are subject to royal events. Generally, it opens around 9:45 AM and closes between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM. Always check the official website before your visit. Instagram

Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and children. Family tickets are also often offered. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for details. Reddit

While it's sometimes possible to buy tickets on the day, it's not guaranteed, and you might face long queues. Booking online in advance is the safest bet. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and Queen Mary's Dolls' House. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is also a popular spectacle. TikTok

Most visitors spend at least 2-3 hours exploring Windsor Castle. If you plan to also visit the park or town, allocate a full day. Instagram

Windsor Castle has made efforts to improve accessibility, but due to its historic nature, some areas may be challenging. Wheelchairs are available for loan, and there are accessible routes. Check their website for detailed information. Reddit

The Long Walk is a famous, straight, tree-lined avenue stretching for 2.6 miles from Windsor Castle. It offers stunning views and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Instagram

Yes, free audio guides are usually included with your ticket, and there are also guided tours led by wardens that offer deeper insights into the castle's history. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally not permitted inside the State Apartments and St. George's Chapel due to the preservation of the artworks and artifacts. You can take photos of the castle exterior and courtyards. TikTok

Great photo opportunities include the view from The Long Walk, the bridge over the Thames, and various vantage points within the castle grounds. Instagram

No, drone usage is strictly prohibited in and around Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park due to security and privacy regulations. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for exterior shots, with fewer crowds. Golden hour can be particularly magical. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos and videos of the Changing of the Guard ceremony from designated viewing areas. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Windsor Castle can be a fascinating experience for children, sparking their imagination about knights and royalty. While the State Apartments might hold their attention for a while, St. George's Chapel can be a bit much for younger ones. Consider focusing on the castle grounds, the Dolls' House, and the exterior views. TikTok The Changing of the Guard ceremony is usually a big hit with kids. TikTok

Windsor Great Park is fantastic for families, offering plenty of space to run around. The Long Walk is great for a family stroll, and Virginia Water Lake has walking paths and picnic areas. Pack snacks and drinks, as options within the park can be limited. Instagram Look for interactive elements or family-specific guides if available at the castle to keep younger visitors engaged.

🚶 Budget Travelers

While Windsor Castle itself has an admission fee, you can still enjoy much of Windsor without spending a fortune. Walking The Long Walk in Windsor Great Park is free and offers stunning views of the castle. Instagram Exploring the charming streets of Windsor town and browsing the shops can also be done on a budget. Instagram

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in Windsor Great Park, saving money on dining out. If you're traveling from London, booking train tickets in advance can often secure cheaper fares. Reddit While the castle is a major draw, focus on the free or low-cost aspects of Windsor to make it a more budget-friendly trip.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is a vast and historic complex, so planning your visit is key. The State Apartments are the heart of the castle, showcasing opulent rooms filled with royal art and furnishings. Don't miss Queen Mary's Dolls' House, a miniature marvel of craftsmanship. The Semi-State Rooms, used for state banquets, offer a glimpse into more recent royal entertaining. Remember that photography is restricted in many indoor areas to protect the delicate artifacts. TikTok

Beyond the State Apartments, St. George's Chapel is a must-see. This stunning example of Gothic architecture is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter and the final resting place for many monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II. The intricate stonework and stained glass are breathtaking. Allow ample time to explore the chapel and its cloisters. Instagram

For a different perspective, consider the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a traditional display of British pageantry. Check the schedule in advance as it doesn't happen daily. Walking the grounds and enjoying the views of the surrounding town and the River Thames adds to the immersive experience. TikTok

Exploring Windsor Great Park

Adjacent to the castle, Windsor Great Park offers a sprawling natural escape. The most iconic feature is The Long Walk, a magnificent, straight avenue stretching for 2.6 miles, offering unparalleled views back towards Windsor Castle. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, a jog, or a bike ride, especially on a clear day. Instagram

The park is home to diverse landscapes, from ancient woodlands to open parkland and formal gardens. Keep an eye out for the park's resident wildlife, including herds of deer that roam freely. Popular spots within the park include the Virginia Water Lake, with its cascade waterfall and totem pole, and the beautifully landscaped Savill Garden, known for its seasonal displays. Instagram

Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk, a picnic spot, or a chance to connect with nature, Windsor Great Park provides a refreshing contrast to the grandeur of the castle. It's an essential part of the Windsor experience, offering a sense of scale and tranquility. Instagram

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