Windsor Castle Day Trip
Enjoy a day trip to Windsor Castle
A day trip to Windsor Castle will fill your day with an abundance of photo opportunities and a fascinating lesson in medieval history. There is so much history behind this castle that we can only touch the surface here.
Windsor Castle is the largest castle in the world today still occupied as a residence. An official residence to the Queen, this 900 plus year old castle continues as a full working palace and covers an area of 26 acres.
The castle was first built after the Norman invasion in order to maintain Norman dominance along the western outskirts of London. It also overlooked and protected a strategic part of the River Thames, having a mote and bailey. Originally constructed of wood by William the Conqueror, the castle later became a residence for King Henry l. During the later half of the 12th century his grandson, Henry II gradually rebuilt the castle with stone to improve its fortification. He also converted the inside of the castle into an elaborate palace. In the 13th century Henry lll made even more improvements followed by Edward III who rebuilt much of that same palace with even more extravagance. Over the following centuries subsequent Kings have each added their own interesting touches and improvements to the castle.
Windsor Castle has served as a home and fortress for Monarchs for nearly a millennium. It has stood up to invasions during the First Barons' War in the early 13th century and during the civil war in the 15th century it served as headquarters to Parliamentary military forces. As recently as the Second World War the castle provided protection to the Royal Family from bombing campaigns.
In spite of its resilience in times of war, Windsor Castle almost succumbed to a terrible fire that swept over the building in 1992 destroying all but the outer shell of a number of rooms. The fire started by a spotlight coming into contact with curtains inside the Queen's Private Chapel and quickly spread up into the roof of the palace. The damaged rooms were all painstakingly restored, a project that took five years to complete.
One of the amazing and very interesting highlights of a visit to Windsor Castle is Queen Mary's Doll house. This is definitely not your average doll house. It is the largest most elegant and famous doll house in the world. Built for Queen Mary by the architect Sir Edwin Lutyens between 1921-1924 This scaled-down replica is an impeccable likeness to an aristocratic home, with features such as a fully stocked wine cellar a library a garden, electricity, running water both hot and cold, flushing toilets and elevators that work. In an adjacent display you will see two beautiful French dolls, France and Marianne with part of their wardrobe of clothes and adornments that were designed and made by Parisian fashion houses for Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret rose the daughters of King George Vl and Queen Elizabeth.
Windsor Castle is only a short distance from Legoland so you may want to combine the two into a single day trip, however, it is easy to spend a full day exploring either one.
Windsor Castle is open most days of the year for visitors and tours from 9:45am to 5:15pm except until 4:15pm from November to February.
For more information about Windsor Castle including hours and admission charges visit their official website linked above.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes.Windsor Castle Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:15 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:15 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:15 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:15 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:15 PM
Address: Windsor SL4 1NJ, UK
Phone: 0303 123 7334
Official Website: Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle Reviews
Rated out of 5
First visit. It's Windsor castle. Suffice to say lots of history. Entrance fee was reasonable. Can't take photos inside the building or the church. Two cafes, one in the basement, one outside, tasty food but a little bit pricey. Staff were all friendly and helpful, ready to answer any questions of a practical or historical nature. Probably need a good few hours to look around, we took 4 hours. It can get busy for the inside exhibits so expect queues at peak times. Very moving to see Queen Elizabeth II's resting place. Definitely worth a visit of you're interested in history, even foreign history looking at the gifts sent from other nations.
Michael C - 2 weeks ago
It is a nice experience to visit the castle especially if you are a history lover. The views inside the castle are marvelous and well maintained. Plan the trip at least a day before. The Doll's House, The State Apartments are worth a watch. The multimedia guide which is free to collect at the entrance offers information about all the places inside the castle. The beautiful parade and changing the guard by the British pageantry is a must watch which happens between 10:30 and 11:30 am, so kindly plan your visits on either Thursday or Saturday. You might feel a little tired after viewing the castle but please visit the long walk road as well which is just a 5 minute walk from the castle.
Mohan Raj - a week ago
A wonderful place to visit. The state rooms are magnificent and full of historical items to see.
It's well worth buying tickets beforehand as the queue can be long otherwise.
David Thomas - a week ago
🌟 **A Royal Adventure: Windsor Castle** 🌟
Our visit to Windsor Castle was a truly enchanting experience! As the world's oldest and largest inhabited castle, Windsor Castle offers a glimpse into the rich history and splendor of the British monarchy. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the castle's grandeur and the beautiful surroundings.
The highlight of our visit was exploring the State Apartments, which are filled with magnificent art, opulent furnishings, and stunning architecture. Walking through these rooms felt like stepping back in time, and we were in awe of the craftsmanship and attention to detail.
St. George's Chapel was another standout, with its intricate Gothic architecture and serene atmosphere. It's also the final resting place of many notable royals, including King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth II.
One of the most thrilling parts of our visit was witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The precision and pageantry of the guards were impressive and added to the overall royal experience.
Pro Tip: **Buy your tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry.** Arrive early to make the most of your visit, as there's so much to see and do. The lines can get long, especially during peak tourist seasons, but the wait is absolutely worth it.
The castle grounds are immaculate, and the views from the castle are breathtaking. We also enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
Overall, our visit to Windsor Castle was an unforgettable adventure filled with history, beauty, and royal charm. It's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the UK. We left with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for British heritage. Highly recommended! 🏰🇬🇧
Matthew Wright - a month ago
Extraordinary place to visit!
This place is being kept immaculate.
There is so much to see.
Walking into the property, it gives you a sense that you are part of it.
Incredible staff, stunning furniture, breathtaking pieces of art.
If you are planning to go to the UK, you need to stop in Windsor 💯
Maria Roberts - a month ago
Directions
| Tube and National Rail Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| District, Circle, Hammersmith and City, and Bakerloo Lines | Paddington Station | 4 MInutes |
How to get to Windsor Castle by Tube and National Rail
From Paddington Station Purchase a National Rail Ticket for the First Great Western Line to Windsor and Eton Central Station. There will be a transfer between trains at Slough Station. Total time on the train including the transfer varies between 26 and 50 minutes depending on which train you catch.
When you arrive at Windsor and Eton Central Station take the Windsor Castle (east) exit and walk south on Thames St. then left on Castle Hill to get to the visitor entrance.
Use the National Rail Journey Planner to get details and departure times for you trip.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Windsor Castle:
Photo Gallery
-
700 year old stonework of Windsor Castle -
The long approach to Windsor Castle -
Saint George's Hall inside Windsor Castle is decorated with the shields and armor or over 1000 knights cc licensed photo by contemplicity -
Photo Credit: . Ray in Manila - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Croydon Clicker - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Robert.Pittman - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Robert.Pittman - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: conall.. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: conall.. - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Robin Mulligan - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: JackPeasePhotography - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: M McBey - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Robert.Pittman - cc license via Flickr
Video
Please provide consent and/or disable ad blocker to view the video.
