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 7304
Official Website: Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle Reviews
Rated out of 5
The castle is amazing! Could probably skip the doll house if short on time. The state apartments are a sight to see, sadly no pbotos inside of the castle only the exterior. Got to see the changing of the Kingsguard. Very much worth a trip. Came with a tour group, our group was first in line.
Tim Krauss - 4 months ago
It is a beautiful town with the famous Windsor Castle. The castle is has been preserved meticulously. Queen Mary’s doll house is worth seeing. You can stroll in the castle and sniff all the history. Also there is an amazing cafe and eatery towards the exit and out in the backyard.
Taner Oktar - 6 months ago
I visited just the "long walk" and just outside the castle entrance. Did not go inside due to limited time, not worth the entrance fees paid if explore inside for just an hour. We have limited time as in the morning, we were in Stonehenge. The long walk was scenic and amazing, a must do. Highly recommended. The exterior of Windsor Castle is already amazingly beautiful. Especially its the oldest livable castle by monarch till today. We were blessed as the Prince & Princess of Wales were in the house/castle hosting a New Zealand Maori Princess. Many gathered and waited just to catch a glimpse of the royalties. Do take the opportunity to roam and explore the charming and peaceful Windsor Town. Stop for a cup of tea or coffee and sweet pastry and enjoy the vibes. Also accessable via public transportation. There is a train station 5 minutes walk from the castle. Recommended.
zamri idris - 2 months ago
Windsor Castle is amazing and breath taking. It's great to learn more about the history of the country and being greatful for what's around. The staff are lovely, friendly and helpful. Security is strict in a good way. Breath taking scenery and inside the castle is just so moving and inspiring. There are a few gift shops, refreshment stations such as cafes. Staff and security are always close to hand. Toilet facilities are available. It's walking distance to the town. Accessable for all ages and abilities. If your travelling to Windsor. There is easy travel as it's on local bus and train route. And plenty of parking.
Chris B - 3 months ago
Visiting Windsor Castle was honestly one of the highlights of my UK trip. Seeing the castle in person after having watched and read so much about it over the years felt really special. The architecture is absolutely stunning, and the entire area around the castle has such a grand yet charming atmosphere. Walking through the grounds and simply admiring the historic beauty of the place makes you appreciate how much history these walls have witnessed over centuries.
What I loved most was how beautifully maintained everything is, from the exterior views to the surrounding streets and scenery. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or simply beautiful places, Windsor Castle is definitely a must-visit when in the UK. 🏰✨
G D (Savor the Journey) - 2 months 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
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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 -
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Photo Credit: Robert.Pittman - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Robert.Pittman - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: JackPeasePhotography - 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
