London is home to some of the best attractions and experiences in the country. But for those interested in the royal family, there is more to see than just Buckingham Palace. Just 40 kilometers from London lies the Windsor Castle, home to the royals. Easy to visit as part of a quick day trip from London, this monument will give you insight into 1000 years of British history. Read on for a look into what your Windsor Castle tickets have to offer.
Windsor Castle is one of the top things to do in Windsor. Starting July 23, 2020, Windsor Castle began welcoming visitors back to the monument. There are stringent health measures in place to ensure the safety of visitors.
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Windsor Castle has served as the home and court of British monarchs since 1070 - over 1000 years! The monument stands tall against the clear skies of Windsor and has been a favourite among royals, state visitors, tourists, and locals alike.
Whether you’re a history buff, royal fanatic, or just a curious traveler, a visit to Windsor Castle is a must. Opulent staterooms and chambers decorated with breathtaking art by the likes of Leonardo Da Vinci and Rembrandt welcome visitors into the castle. The famous Round Tower and St. George’s Chapel round off this magnificent touring experience.
Today, the Royal Collection Trust has ensured that Windsor Castle has retained its beauty and intriguing stories while offering the latest facilities such as a multilingual audio guide and enhancing accessibility for the visually impaired, deaf, or hard of hearing visitors.
Since visiting Windsor Castle is bound to be on most people’s travel list, it is advisable to book Windsor Castle tickets online. Purchasing tickets online helps avoid long lines at the Admission Center during peak hours (most mornings) while also enabling visitors to avail free travel from London and audio guides in different languages.
Once the proper tickets are bought either online or through the Admission Center, visitors can opt to go for a non-guided tour and explore on their own terms or choose a specific tour to take part in.
As part of a guided tour, you will get to explore the Windsor Castle in all its glory with an expert guide who knows the premises like the back of their hand. They will give you an insight into its history and answer any questions you may have. Moreover, transfers are usually included in guided tours for a smooth experience. If you want to explore at your own pace, yet get information, you can also go for an audioguided tour.
A non-guided or self-guided tour is the most flexible Windsor Castle ticket option. You will be armed with just your tickets - you can decide how you want to get there and what exactly you want to see. This is perfect for those who love to explore on their own. However, you will have to arrange your own transportation to, from, and within Windsor.
Under Windsor Castle combo tours from London, you will get to explore one or more places along with this monument. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, and your transportation is included to ensure a hassle free experience. Some popular combo tour destinations with Windsor Castle include Stonehenge, Bath, and Oxford.
Entry to the castle is free for children under 5 years of age. Family tickets (for 2 adults and 3 children) costs £60.50. Disabled individuals and those under the age of 17 pay £13.50 for tickets, while a regular ticket for adults costs £23.50.
You will be picked up in an air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi from a set location in London Victoria Coach Station.
You will be dropped off at the same place as pick up — in London Victoria.
You will be picked up in an private air-conditioned coach from a meeting point in London Victoria. In Windsor combo tours from London, Windsor Castle is typically the first stop.
Depending on the tickets chosen, you will then head to the next venue. You could go to Stonehenge and marvel at the prehistoric monument; or Bath, to discover the wonderful heritage city; or even Lacock, one of the most beautiful towns in the Cotswolds.
At the end of your tour, you will be dropped off at the same meeting point in London Victoria.
Here are some things visitors must see at Windsor Castle. Click for a comprehensive list of things to see at the castle.
Windsor is pleasant to visit throughout the year, but the best time to visit Windsor is during spring. The weather is pleasant, and the scenery is lovely. However, if you want to avoid crowds, you can visit between November to March. While it is colder, the beauty of Windsor Castle remains just the same.
Here are some popular restaurants near Windsor Castle:
If you plan to stay in Windsor, you can choose to stay in hostels or go camping if you’re looking for something budget-friendly.
If you need something mid-range, you can pick from a self-catered apartment, a Bed & Breakfast, or an inn.
And if you want a luxurious stay, you can pick from an array of luxury and boutique hotels.
Located opposite Windsor Castle, the Windsor Royal station has about forty stores, along with a bunch of eateries. While some stores remain closed due to COVID-19, this still remains a popular shopping destination.
Additionally, Windsor also has many department stores, high street shops, and independent boutiques — so there is always something for everyone!
Here are some things that are a must-do when visiting Windsor Castle:
A. While slightly on the expensive side, the best tickets are those that include a guided tour. This enriches your experience as you get insight into the workings and history of the monument. Additionally, your transfers are covered, making your visit hassle-free.
A. Yes. Entry to the Castle is included in the London Pass along with access to 80+ other attractions.
A. Yes, Windsor Castle opened its doors for visitors on July 23, 2020, and has been operating at reduced capacity since.
A. Yes, but the castle is closed on certain days every year and when members of the royal family host events at the location. For more info, you can check out the official site.
A. Yes. A regular ticket for adults costs £23.50, but is £13.50 for those under the age of 17 or disabled individuals. Entry to the castle is free for children under 5 years of age. Family tickets (for 2 adults and 3 children) costs £60.50.
A. Yes. All areas are accessible to disabled visitors. Guide dogs are permitted, and water is available for them on request. Facilities are in place for hearing-impaired and visually-impaired visitors. There is ramp/level access wherever needed, and toilets for disabled visitors are available. There is also an accessible lift to State Apartments and Semi-State Rooms.
A. Due to current regulations, even if you want to purchase same day tickets, you will have to do it online. It is thus recommended that you book online tickets in advance to get the date and time slot you prefer.
A. Currently, it is absolutely necessary to purchase your Windsor Castle tickets in advance, as only those with timed slot tickets are being allowed in.
A. Yes. These can be booked in advance online. You can also opt for a guided tour and explore other destinations along with Windsor Castle.
A. While Windsor Castle tickets with audioguide are available for purchase, visitors can also pick up the multimedia guide for free upon entrance.
A. As part of your Windsor Castle admission tickets, you will get access to State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, Semi-State Rooms (autumn to spring only), and Queen Mary's Dolls' House (when open).
A. Windsor Castle tours are typically 2 hours. If you are visiting Windsor Castle from London, your total tour time would be about 5-6 hours, including transfers.
A. The best time is during spring. Visit around 12-12:30 PM, once the morning crowd from tour coaches has dwindled down.