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Windsor castle day trips from London | Royal history & scenic streets

Keen to step into a world of royal history? Hop on a Windsor day tour and immerse yourself in the world’s oldest inhabited castle at Windsor, with its State Apartments and stories at every turn. After exploring the castle, wander through Windsor’s charming streets, dotted with boutique shops and cafes perfect for a leisurely bite.

Overview of your Windsor day trip from London

  • Distance from London: 35 km (22 miles)
  • Travel time: 45 minutes by train or 1 hour by coach
  • Visit duration: 3–4 hours at Windsor Castle
  • Best season to visit: March–October (spring to summer)
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Central London (Victoria Station, Paddington Station, or designated coach terminals)
  • Key highlights: Windsor Castle, St George’s Chapel, The Long Walk, Windsor Great Park, State Apartments and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
  • Tour options: Half-day Windsor tour or full-day combo with Stonehenge, Bath, or Oxford
  • Other key attractions: Stonehenge stone circle, Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, University of Oxford colleges, Bodleian Library, Christ Church College.
  • Travel: Comfortable round-trip A/C coach or train transfers from London included.

What to expect on a Windsor day trip?

Passengers enjoying views of Salzburg from an AC coach, Austria.
Windsor Castle entrance with pathway and surrounding gardens.
Windsor Castle interior with ornate chandeliers, gilded walls, and red carpet.
St. George's Chapel interior with stained glass windows at Windsor Castle, London.
Soldiers in traditional uniforms marching during the changing of the guard at Windsor Castle, England.
Visitors exploring Stonehenge in London, standing near ancient stone structures.
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Scenic transfers

Travel in comfort with round-trip A/C coach or train transfers from London, ensuring a smooth and relaxing experience. Sit back and take in the scenic views of city streets and the English countryside, making the journey as delightful as the destinations themselves.

A castle steeped in history

Walk into the world's oldest and largest inhabited castle, where history speaks through every wall. Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this residence spans over 484,000 square feet with around 1,000 rooms, has been home to 40 monarchs, and continues to serve as a working royal palace.

Entry to magnificent state rooms

The State Rooms are where history truly comes alive at Windsor! Admire masterpieces by Holbein, Rubens, and Van Dyck, and marvel at the opulent Grand Reception Room and the historic Waterloo Chamber, commemorating Napoleon's defeat.

Step inside St. George's chapel

If you love architecture, a visit to St. George's Chapel would perfectly round off your Windsor trip. Discover its Perpendicular Gothic stonework reflecting centuries of royal patronage. This chapel has hosted royal weddings and is the final resting place of monarchs including Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth II.

The ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony

Watching the famous Changing the Guard is a highlight of any Windsor day trip. This colourful display of British pageantry marks the handover of duties between two groups of guards and is a powerful symbol of the monarchy’s enduring tradition and discipline.

Explore Stonehenge, Oxford, and Bath

Day trips also include other destinations, bringing you the best of many worlds. Walk among the mystical stones of Stonehenge, admire Bath’s Georgian elegance and step into Oxford’s historic halls. Whether it’s heritage or architecture, these tours offer a mix of everything.

Things to know before booking your Windsor day trip from London

  • Half-day vs full-day tours: The half-day Windsor Castle tour lets you explore the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, and gardens in just a few hours. Full-day tours combine Windsor with Stonehenge, Bath, or Oxford, including guided insights and audio guides, for a richer experience.
  • Transfers: Your ticket includes comfortable A/C coach or train transfers from central London, giving you more time to enjoy your destinations.
  • Plan your trip: Make the day your own and explore at your own pace. Want to cover more than one spot? Choose the combo ticket with Stonehenge & Bath or Stonehenge & Oxford to uncover the secrets of Stonehenge, roam the royal halls of Windsor Castle, explore the Roman Baths, or wander the streets of Oxford. Pressed for time? No worries! The half-day Windsor Castle tour is perfect for a quick but unforgettable adventure, featuring grand interiors, beautiful gardens, and key attractions.
  • Meals: Your ticket does not include meals, but you can stop at local cafes and restaurants along the way. Keep an eye out for hidden gems or ask your tour guide for recommendations for the best spots to eat.
  • Entry tickets: Standard tours allow free roaming around Windsor, Bath, and Oxford. For a more immersive experience, upgrade your ticket to include entry to Windsor Castle, the Roman Baths, or both.
  • Quick tip: During peak season (June to August), tickets tend to sell out fast. Plan your visit to book 2–4 weeks in advance. Windsor Castle is open Thursday to Monday and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
  • Opening hours: Windsor Castle has seasonal opening hours. From March to October, it is open from 10am to 5:15pm, with last admission at 4pm. From November to February, it opens from 10am to 4:15pm, with last admission at 3pm.

Your Windsor day trip tickets explained

Ticket typeInclusionsBoarding pointSights coveredBest forPrices starting from
Windsor Castle Half-Day Tour

Entry tickets to Windsor Castle + Multilingual media guide

Round-trip transfers from Central London or London Paddington Station

State Apartments, St George’s Chapel and Windsor castle grounds

Those who want to spend time and cover one attraction thoroughly.

£57
Stonehenge, Windsor & Bath

Entry to Stonehenge + live guided walking tour of Bath + expert guide + multilingual audio guide

Round-trip AC coach transfers from London

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle grounds + town of Bath

Those who are pressed for time and want to cover 3 historic sites of the UK in just one day.

£109
Stonehenge, Windsor & Oxford

Entry to Stonehenge + live guided walking tour of Oxford+ expert guide + multilingual audio guide

Round-trip AC coach transfers from London

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle grounds + city of Oxford

Those who want a dash of England's royal, prehistoric, and academic side in one day.

£84

What your day looks like from London to Windsor

Passengers enjoying views of Salzburg from an AC coach, Austria.

Begin your journey by leaving central London in a comfortable AC coach with Wi-Fi and USB charging, or take a convenient train from Paddington Station. Enjoy the scenic English countryside and prepare for a day filled with history, royal heritage, and iconic sights.

Windsor Castle stone exterior with lush greenery and blue sky.

Arrive at Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. Explore the grand State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, the Round Tower, and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.

Time required: Half a day covers the highlights perfectly, though longer tours allow for more exploration.

Options: Select the Windsor Castle half-day tour or include Windsor as part of a full-day itinerary with Bath or Oxford.

Stonehenge

See England’s mysterious stone circle on the Salisbury Plain, a prehistoric wonder that hints at ancient rituals, astronomy, and engineering.

  • Time required: About 1.5 to 2 hours, including the visitor centre.
  • Options: Windsor Castle & Bath or Windsor & Oxford day

Bath

Stroll through the city of Bath, known for its Roman heritage, Georgian architecture, the Roman Baths and 18th-century Pulteney Bridge.

  • Time required: Around 2 hours to enjoy both history and riverside views.
  • Options: Stonehenge & Bath Day Trip.

Oxford

Explore the “City of Dreaming Spires,” with historic colleges, the Bodleian Library and riverside charm.

  • Time required: Around 2 hours, with guided walks covering the city’s highlights.
  • Options: Stonehenge & Oxford Day Trip .
Traveler enjoying scenic view from AC coach, Hallstatt.

Head back to London by A/C coach or train, arriving relaxed after a day of royal heritage, ancient mysteries, and historic charm. The best part about guided tours is that they provide seamless transfers, expert insights, and stress-free exploration, letting you enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

See more of England with one ticket!

Standard entry tickets cover just one attraction, but with a combo tour to Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath, you’ll explore three destinations in a single day. Discover royal history, ancient mysteries, and Georgian elegance, all in one seamless journey.

Windsor Castle's stone facade with visitors in lush green surroundings, England.

What will you see on a Windsor day trip?

People walking along the Windsor Long Walk, surrounded by lush green trees.
windsor castle aerial view
Windsor Castle interior with ornate wood paneling and historical portraits.
Queen Mary's Dolls' House interior at Windsor Castle, showcasing detailed miniature rooms.
St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle with ceremonial guards on steps.
Guards in red uniforms and bearskin hats in formation at Windsor Castle.
Round Tower at Windsor Castle surrounded by lush gardens, England.
Windsor Guildhall with arched entrance and historic architecture in Windsor, England.
Theatre seats facing a closed stage curtain.
Crooked House of Windsor with outdoor seating and pedestrian zone sign.
Eton College
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Frogmore House

Constructed between 1680 and 1684 by Hugh May, Frogmore House was acquired by Queen Charlotte in 1792 for her family’s retreat.

  • Where is it: Located within the Frogmore Estate, just half a mile south of Windsor Castle inside Windsor Great Park.
  • Unique fact: The name “Frogmore” comes from the marshy land around the site, once teeming with frogs.
  • Entry: Included in your ticket.

Windsor Great Park

Windsor Great Park is a 4,800-acre haven featuring the Long Walk—a tree-lined avenue leading to the Copper Horse statue.

  • Where is it: Just outside Windsor Castle.
  • Unique fact: The Savill Garden includes a Rose Garden that was redesigned and inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010.
  • Entry: Included with your ticket.

State Apartments

A series of lavishly decorated rooms used for royal ceremonies, including the Throne Room, Grand Reception Room, and St. George’s Hall.

  • Where is it: Inside Windsor Castle
  • Unique fact: The Apartments were redesigned by Sir Jeffry Wyatville for King George IV and are still used by the monarch for hosting state visits.
  • Entry: Included in your ticket.

Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House

Built in the 1920s, this miniature masterpiece is the largest dolls’ house in the world, complete with electricity, plumbing, and tiny wine cellars.

  • Where is it: Displayed inside Windsor Castle, near the State Apartments.
  • Unique fact: Over 1,500 artists worked on it, and it even has tiny functional elevators and a library of miniature books!
  • Entry: Included in your ticket.

St. George’s Chapel

A Gothic masterpiece dating to the 15th century, famous for royal weddings and funerals, including those of Henry VIII and Elizabeth II.

  • Where is it: Located within the Lower Ward of Windsor Castle.
  • Unique fact: It is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, Britain’s oldest order of chivalry, founded in 1348.
  • Entry: Included in your ticket.

Changing the Guard Ceremony

A traditional military handover with soldiers in red tunics and bearskin hats, accompanied by music.

  • Where is it: Performed inside Windsor Castle’s precincts.
  • Unique fact: The ceremony has taken place since the 17th century and still serves as an official guard change for royal security.
  • Entry: Included in your ticket.

Round Tower

The Round Tower is Windsor Castle’s iconic circular keep, surrounded by terraces and gardens with scenic views.

  • Where is it: At the heart of Windsor Castle’s Middle Ward
  • Unique fact: The tower is built on a prehistoric mound, giving it a commanding position that made Windsor strategically vital.
  • Entry: Included in your ticket.

Windsor Guildhall

Dating back to 1369, Windsor Guildhall is a Grade I listed building known for its classical design and royal connections.

  • Where is it: Found on the High Street in Windsor, very close to the Castle.
  • Unique fact: It has hosted several weddings, including Prince Charles’s civil ceremony with Camilla Parker Bowles.
  • Entry: Not included in your ticket.

Theatre Royal Windsor

Theatre Royal Windsor is an Edwardian venue that has been delighting audiences since 1910 with a mix of dramas, musicals and family shows.

  • Where is it: Located on Thames Street, a short walk from Windsor Castle.
  • Unique fact: Theatre has been a tradition on this site for over 245 years, with the first theatre building constructed here in 1793!
  • Entry: Not included in your ticket.

The Crooked House of Windsor

Built in 1592 as a butcher’s shop, the Crooked House is a Grade II listed building famous for its bay windows.

  • Where is it: Located on Market Cross House in Windsor’s central shopping area, near Windsor Castle.
  • Unique fact: The house leans because of reconstruction in 1687 with unseasoned green oak wood that warped as it dried.
  • Entry: Not included in your ticket.

Eton College

Founded in 1440, Eton College is a prestigious all-boys boarding school renowned for its Gothic Chapel.

  • Where is it: Across the River Thames from Windsor, in the town of Eton.
  • Unique fact: Eton’s alumni, known as “Old Etonians,” include 19 British Prime Ministers and many royals!
  • Entry: Not included in your ticket.

Your Windsor day trips route map

Windsor day trips from London (Stonehenge, OXford, Bath)

Getting to Windsor from London

Visitors with guide and audio devices inside Windsor Castle.

The best way to visit Windsor Castle from London is on a guided tour with direct transfers. Travel in a comfortable AC coach with Wi-Fi and USB charging or by train from Paddington Station for the best experience, and without the hassles of driving to the attraction by yourself.

  • Time: 1 hour each way from London
  • Best for: First-time visitors, families, and those seeking stress-free planning
  • Pros: Direct transfers, comfortable travel, expert guidance, no navigation stress.

Best tours with transfers: Half-day tour, Stonehenge & Oxford, and Stonehenge and Bath.

Nearest stop: Windsor & Eton Central Station

Trains are a great way to get to Windsor Castle. They are affordable, comfortable, and offer modern amenities, with the added bonus of passing through the beautiful English countryside. From London Paddington, you can take the Elizabeth Line to Slough, then board a Great Western Railway train to Windsor & Eton Central Station. From there, it’s just a 6-minute walk to the castle.

  • Time: 50 minutes
  • Best for: Independent travellers who want moderate comfort and flexibility
  • Pros: Frequent departures, scenic English countryside
  • Cons: Requires walking from the station.

Windsor has no Tube station, but you can reach London Paddington via the Circle or Hammersmith & City Line for a quick and easy journey.

Driving to Windsor Castle gives you full flexibility. From Central London, take the M4 westbound for the most direct route. Other routes include M3, M25, or M40.

  • Time: 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic
  • Best for: Families, groups, or travellers wanting flexibility
  • Pros: Flexible schedule, optional stops along the way
  • Cons: Traffic can be heavy. There is no parking inside the castle.

While there is no parking inside the castle, there are a few parking stops all under a 10-minute walk from the castle and much cheaper than the short-stay options:

Nearest stop: Parish Church

Buses offer an affordable and scenic route to Windsor Castle, ideal for travellers on a budget. Green Line services 702 and 703 run every 30 minutes from London to Windsor, taking you through rolling countryside and charming villages.

  • Time: 1.5 hours
  • Best for: Budget-conscious travellers
  • Pros: Affordable, scenic route, direct to Windsor
  • Cons: Less comfortable than coach, limited onboard amenities, requires walking to the castle (5–10 minutes).
Man cycling on a Vélib' bike in Paris street.

Cycling from London to Windsor Castle is a scenic 40-mile ride.

  • Follow National Cycle Route 4 from West London, through Richmond Park and Windsor Great Park. 
  • Start at Battersea Park, cross Chelsea Bridge, and pass Barnes Common and Roehampton. 
  • Continue past Kingston-upon-Thames, Hampton Court Park, Sunbury, Walton on the Thames, Weybridge, Chertsey, and Staines. Cooper’s Hill is a challenging climb but offers rewarding views.
  • Time: 3–4 hours
  • Best for: Fitness enthusiasts and cycling lovers
  • Pros: Scenic, flexible pace, independent experience
  • Cons: Long distance, physically demanding, includes some steep climbs.

Explore more along the way to Windsor

Stonehenge

Stonehenge is England’s iconic prehistoric circle of towering stones on the Salisbury Plain. Its mysterious arrangement has sparked curiosity for thousands of years, hinting at ancient rituals, astronomy, and engineering genius.

  • What can you see: The ancient Stone Circle, interactive visitor centre, Neolithic houses, and exhibitions of ancient artifacts.
  • Time required: Around 1.5 to 2 hours, including time to explore the visitor centre.
  • Options: Take the From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Bath Day Trip or the From London: Stonehenge, Windsor & Oxford Day Trip, both including entry and audio guides.

Bath

Bath is celebrated for its Roman Baths and stunning Georgian architecture. Wander the golden limestone terraces, admire the historic Pulteney Bridge, or upgrade to explore Bath Abbey and the ancient thermal spa complex.

  • What can you see: The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, and golden limestone Georgian terraces.
  • Time required: About 2 hours, ideal for exploring history and enjoying riverside views.
  • Options: Join the From London: Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Bath Day Trip and upgrade to include entry to the Roman Baths.

Oxford

Oxford, the “City of Dreaming Spires,” is home to centuries-old colleges, historic libraries, and medieval chapels. Stroll along the charming riverside and soak in a city steeped in stories of scholars, innovation, and timeless charm.

  • What can you see: Historic colleges, the Bodleian Library, medieval chapels, and the city’s scenic riverside.
  • Time required: Around 2 hours, with guided walks covering the city’s highlights.
  • Options: Discover Oxford with the From London: Stonehenge, Windsor & Oxford Day Trip, complete with expert commentary and guided tours.

Plan your visit to Windsor day trips from London

Windsor Castle opening hours

  • November 1 to February 28: Open Thursday to Monday, 10 am – 4:15 pm. Last entry at 3 pm.
  • March 1 to October 31: Open Thursday to Monday, 10 am – 5:15 pm. Last entry at 4 pm.

Notes:

  • The last entry to Windsor Castle is 1 hour 15 minutes before closing.
  • St George’s Chapel is open to visitors on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am – 4 pm, and closed on Sundays for religious services.
  • Windsor Castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Windsor castle timings
  • Peak season (June to August): If you like the crowds, plan your visit to Windsor around summer to enjoy the lively atmosphere and pleasant weather. While larger crowds and longer waiting times can occur, booking tickets in advance ensures you make the most of this vibrant season.
  • Low season (November to February): For a more peaceful visit with fewer crowds and shorter queues, consider visiting during the latter half of the year. Although the weather is colder, dressing in layers and enjoying the crisp winter scenery can make for a uniquely charming and serene experience.
  • Best season to visit: Late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) provide mild weather, perfect for wandering parks and gardens while avoiding the busiest tourist times.
Plan your visit

Traveling to Windsor is super easy via train, with direct routes from London Waterloo and Paddington taking just 35 to 55 minutes. If time is tight, consider booking a guided day trip ticket that includes transportation and access to Windsor Castle for a seamless visit.

Getting to Windsor Castle
  • Plan your must-see attractions: Make a list of top attractions to explore, including Windsor Gardens, St. George's Chapel, and the Long Walk, so you don’t miss anything.
  • Special events and experiences: Windsor Castle hosts frequent events during Christmas, adding a magical touch to the space and your experience. Plan your visit accordingly to make the most of these experiences.
  • Farmers’ market: Visiting on a weekend? Stop by the Windsor Farmers’ Market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a taste of local flavours while supporting small businesses.
  • Daylight saving hours: In the UK, daylight saving begins on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October, offering longer daylight hours ideal for sightseeing. Plan your visit in advance for the best day out at Windsor.

Frequently asked questions about Windsor day trips

Think about how much time you want to spend exploring. Full-day trips are great for seeing everything at a relaxed pace, while half-day options are perfect if you prefer a shorter outing. Combo tours are also ideal for visiting multiple attractions with a single ticket.