Windsor Castle
Explore the oldest & largest inhabited castle, a royal residence for 900 years, featuring stunning State Apartments & St. George's Chapel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Windsor Castle
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the oldest & largest inhabited castle, a royal residence for 900 years, featuring stunning State Apartments & St. George's Chapel.
"A must-visit for history lovers, offering a glimpse into centuries of royal life and breathtaking architecture."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Windsor Castle tickets in advance online. :admission_tickets:
🎧 Use the Audio Guide
The free audio guide provides excellent insights and is more than sufficient for exploring. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. George's Chapel
Within Windsor Castle
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this is the final resting place for many monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II.
State Apartments
Within Windsor Castle
Marvel at opulent rooms filled with priceless art and historical artifacts from the Royal Collection.
Changing of the Guard
Windsor Castle Courtyard
Witness the iconic ceremony with the King's Guard, often accompanied by a military band.
The Long Walk
Windsor Great Park
An impressive tree-lined avenue offering breathtaking views towards the castle.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Castle Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Windsor Castle tickets in advance online. :admission_tickets:
🎧 Use the Audio Guide
The free audio guide provides excellent insights and is more than sufficient for exploring. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky; consider public transport or arrive early for limited free parking. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your Windsor Castle tickets in advance online. :admission_tickets:
🎧 Use the Audio Guide
The free audio guide provides excellent insights and is more than sufficient for exploring. :iphone:
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle and grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky; consider public transport or arrive early for limited free parking. :car:
🚶 Explore Eton
Take a stroll across the bridge to Eton and explore its historic college and charming streets. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Windsor Castle for its immense historical significance, stunning architecture, and the grandeur of the State Apartments. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a popular highlight. However, some find the ticket price steep and the castle can feel very crowded, especially during peak times.
"Loved it. A good bit to see and explore. The audioguide is very useful. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. They answered my many questions on things that were not in the guide. I Highly recommend. The only downer was not being able to take pictures on the inside of Windsor castle and St Georges chapel. The train there wasn't bad even though I had to take 3 trains. There were lines for the queen doll house but it moved quickly. Ensure that you get the express/ rapid train to and from slough and not the slower commuter train. Also buy your tickets in advance especially for the morning time slots."
Kerry B
"I have just visited Windsor Castle as a birthday treat. Purchased tickets in advance. I am a disabled person, it's lovely that they have special price for us. And a carer ticket is free to purchase. The staff was absolutely lovely and they assisted me throughout the whole visit as there is a very well organized way to help disabled people walk through the whole castle. They also have a lift and the staff escorted us to use it.
Sadly you are not allowed to take photos. And the gift shop is way (way!!!) overpriced.
But all together it was a lovely experience that worth the time and money. The interior is well maintained, all the paintings are in great condition tow joy and the Queen's dollhouse is fascinating."
Narcisz K
"Loved visiting the castle. We booked online and added a souvenir booklet for only £7. Entrance into the castle was easy "airport like," but you would expect that. All staff were friendly, approachable and friendly even the armed police. I would recommend a visit."
Darren Sadler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside (direct) or via the Elizabeth Line to Slough and then a short shuttle train. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging. +1
Many recommend public transport due to potential parking difficulties. Trains from London Waterloo are direct and convenient.
Windsor & Eton Riverside station is closest to the castle. Alternatively, you can take the Elizabeth Line to Slough and then a short connecting train.
Yes, contactless payment is widely accepted on public transport in the UK, including for trains to Windsor.
By train, the journey from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside typically takes around 50-60 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around £30 for an adult ticket. Booking online in advance is often recommended.
It is highly recommended to book your Windsor Castle tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment and potential queues.
Opening hours vary seasonally, but generally, the castle opens around 9:30 AM and closes in the late afternoon. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date times.
Yes, Windsor Castle is often closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, especially outside of peak summer season, and can also close for royal events.
While you can use credit cards, it's best to check if mobile payment options like Apple Pay are accepted for on-site purchases or if online booking is preferred.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 3-4 hours exploring Windsor Castle, including the State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and the grounds.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony typically happens around 11:00 AM on select days. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and avoid the largest crowds.
Yes, you can get a free audio guide, and castle staff often conduct tours, providing in-depth historical context.
Don't miss St. George's Chapel, the State Apartments, Queen Mary's Dolls' House, and the Semi-State Rooms.
Photography is generally not permitted inside the State Apartments and St. George's Chapel to protect the artifacts. Check signage for specific restrictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes and refreshment areas within the castle grounds offering light meals and snacks.
The town of Windsor offers a variety of dining options, from traditional pubs to upscale restaurants. Browns is a popular choice.
Picnics are generally not permitted inside the main castle complex, but you can enjoy them in Windsor Great Park.
Cafes usually offer a selection of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods, with some vegetarian options available. It's best to inquire on-site for specific dietary needs.
Expect typical tourist attraction pricing for food and drinks within the castle.
📸 📸 Photography
The Long Walk offers iconic views of the castle. The castle grounds themselves also provide many picturesque angles.
Yes, photography is allowed during the Changing of the Guard ceremony, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing views.
Photography is prohibited inside the State Apartments and St. George's Chapel. Always check for 'no photography' signs.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful golden hour shots of the castle.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited around Windsor Castle and its grounds due to security and privacy regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, plan for shorter bursts of exploration within the castle to avoid overtiring little ones. Focus on the most visually impressive areas like the State Apartments and St. George's Chapel. Remember to check the schedule for the Changing of the Guard in advance, as this is often a highlight for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ History Buffs
The castle's continuous use as a royal residence means it offers a unique perspective on the evolution of British monarchy and architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to learn about the Order of the Garter and the significant events that have unfolded within these walls. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Residence
It has witnessed countless royal events, from coronations to state banquets. During your visit, you'll walk through the very halls where kings and queens have lived, entertained, and made history. The Semi-State Rooms, used by the monarch for entertaining, offer a glimpse into more recent royal life. The sheer scale and historical significance of Windsor Castle make it a truly immersive experience, connecting you directly to centuries of British royal heritage.
St. George's Chapel: A Royal Mausoleum
The chapel's stunning fan-vaulted ceiling and intricate stained-glass windows create an atmosphere of solemn beauty. Visitors can explore the choir, where royal ceremonies take place, and the various chapels dedicated to different royal figures. The Royal Vault, located beneath the chapel, is where Prince Philip was initially interred before his final resting place alongside Queen Elizabeth II in the King George VI Memorial Chapel.
Experiencing the Changing of the Guard
To get the best view, it's advisable to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the ceremony begins, especially on busy days. Popular viewing spots are around the castle gates and the Quadrangle. While the ceremony is a spectacle, be prepared for crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit