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Contents
A History of the Burials at Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle needs no introduction. Possibly the most famous royal residence on planet Earth, Windsor Castle is a favorite among tourists due to its lasting history and strong heritage. The castle has many highlights, including the St George’s Chapel, the resting place of many monarchs such as Queen Elizabeth II.
History of Windsor Castle burials
Early burials at Windsor Castle
King Henry VI was the first to be buried at Windsor Castle. He was followed by King Edward IV in 1483 and Queen Elizabeth Woodville in 1492. Following his execution in 1649, Charles I was buried in a small vault in the center of the choir, which also contained the coffins of Henry VIII and Queen Jane.
Notable figures buried at Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle safely houses the remains of countless British monarchs, including Edward VII, George V, and George VI, and royal family members, including the stillborn son of Queen Anne and Prince Philip. Queen Elizabeth II was also buried at the same location.
Who is buried at St George's Chapel?
Monarchs
There are over 10 monarchs who are interred at various parts of St George's Chapel. Some monarchs buried at Windsor Castle include:
- King Edward IV
- King Henry VI
- King Edward VII
- King Henry VIII
- Queen Elizabeth II
Royal family members
All royal family members are buried in Windsor Castle’s St George’s Chapel or Frogmore Royal Burial Grounds. Family members buried at St George's Chapel include:
- Prince Leopold
- Prince Edward
- Mary of York
- Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother
- Prince Philip
Who is buried at Frogmore Royal Burial Grounds?
When the Royal Vault under St George's Chapel was becoming full, King George V allowed the Frogmore Royal Burial Grounds to serve as the final resting place for future royal burials. Since then, only British sovereigns and those in the direct line of succession would be buried in the Royal Vault.
Many royal family members who were previously buried at St George's Chapel were moved to the grounds following this. These include Queen Victoria's children (Princess Helena, Prince Arthur, and Princess Louise). Other royal family members include:
- Prince Edward
- Prince Henry
- Princess Alice
- Princess Marina
Windsor Castle tickets & tours
Access to Windsor Castle burial sites
Guided tours and visitor experience
Guided tours to Windsor Castle provide access to St George’s Castle where you can see the burial sites of royal family members. Guided tours to the Frogmore Burial Grounds are open to the public for only 6 days a year, usually around Easter and the August Bank Holiday.
Restrictions and guidelines
Smoking, vaping, and the use of electronic cigarettes are restricted on Windsor Castle grounds. Other items include pen knives, knives, scissors, Kirpans (the Sikh article of faith), alcoholic drinks, and paints/aerosols.
Frequently asked questions about Windsor Castle burials
What is the history behind Windsor Castle burials?
St George’s Castle in Windsor Castle has seen the burials of royal kings and queens since the 15th century. It is also the final resting place of Edward VII, George V, George VI, and Queen Elizabeth II. When the Royal Vault at St George's Chapel started to become full, it was decided that only sovereigns and those in direct line of succession would be buried in the Royal Vault and others would be buried at the Frogmore Royal Burial Grounds. This mostly includes royal family members and barons.
Are there any unique customs associated with royal burials at Windsor Castle?
Many unique customs are associated with royal burials at Windsor Castle. The most interesting one is that 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.
How are restoration and preservation efforts managed for the burial sites at Windsor Castle?
Regular cleaning, repairs, and furnishing are done at both the burial sites to preserve their beauty and integrity.
What interesting facts or anecdotes are associated with Windsor Castle burials?
St George’s Castle, 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.
Can I visit Queen Elizabeth II's grave?
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, and her sister, Princess Margaret.
Why was Princess Diana not buried at Windsor Castle?
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.