Windsor Castle needs no introduction This castle is probably the most famous royal residence in the entire world, and for good reason. It's been around for centuries and is packed with history. Tourists flock to see this amazing castle, and there's a ton to see inside, including St. George's Chapel, the resting place of many monarchs such as Queen Elizabeth II.
Windsor Castle Entry Tickets
From London: Windsor Castle Half-Day Tour
From London: Stonehenge, Windsor & Oxford Day Trip
From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Bath Day Trip
There are many unique customs associated with royal burials at Windsor Castle. The most interesting one is when royal members were buried in the Royal Vault, the coffin was lowered through a special opening on the floor of St George’s Chapel. In 1873, a mechanical platform was installed to help lower coffins through this opening. There is also a bench in the middle of the Royal Vault, used as a temporary place for coffins to be buried elsewhere.
The air-tight coffins in the vaults are lined with lead to prevent moisture from entering, slowing the decomposition process. Regular cleaning, repairs, and furnishing are done at both burial sites to preserve their beauty and integrity.
St George’s Chapel, the burial site within Windsor Castle, isn’t just home to the tombs of countless kings and queens. With a seating capacity of 800 people, it is also the largest space in Windsor Castle.
Yes, you can visit Queen Elizabeth II's grave at St George's Chapel all year round from Thursday to Monday. However, be respectful of the site as this is the final resting place of several other sovereigns and royal family members including the Queen's husband, Prince Philip, her parents, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, and her sister, Princess Margaret.
Princess Diana was given a royal funeral. However, her body was not placed in the Royal Vault at St George's Chapel since she was not a princess by birth and was divorced from King Charles at the time of her death. Instead, she was buried at Althorp House, the Spencer family home in Northamptonshire.
