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Opening hours at Windsor Castle in 2026

Today

Closed

Best time to visit the Windsor Castle

Weekday vs Weekend

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  • On weekdays, there tend to be fewer visitors compared to weekends, resulting in a more tranquil and peaceful experience. 
  • With fewer people, the queues for entry, ticketing, and popular attractions like the State Apartments and St. George's Chapel may be shorter, allowing for a smoother visit.
  • Weekends often see more visitors, creating a livelier atmosphere with a buzz of activity and potential opportunities to engage with other tourists. 
  • Windsor Castle occasionally hosts special events or activities during weekends, providing additional attractions or entertainment.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded
Closed

Peak season vs low season

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  • Peak season (May-Sep): The best time to visit Windsor Castle during the peak season is between late spring and early autumn. The gardens are in full bloom, offering vibrant colors and picturesque landscapes. However, it also means larger crowds and long queues, particularly during weekends and public holidays.
  • Low season (Oct-Feb): The low season is an ideal time to visit Windsor Castle for those seeking a quieter experience. With fewer tourists, you can explore the castle and its attractions with more ease and tranquillity. The reduced crowds also provide an opportunity for more personalized interactions with the staff and guides.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season
Moderate Season
Peak Season

Service timings at St George's Chapel

Service typeDaysTimeDuration

Mattins (said)

Monday – Saturday

7:30am (approx. based on standard pattern)

~20 mins

Holy Communion

Monday – Saturday

8am

~30 mins

Holy Communion

Sunday

8:30am

~30 mins

Choral Mattins

Sunday

10:45am

~45 mins

Sung Eucharist

Sunday/Select weekdays

11:45am

~1 hour

Evening Prayer/Evensong

Daily

5:15pm

~45 mins

Note: Services are entirely free to attend, and all are welcome. On days when Windsor Castle and the Chapel are closed to general visitors (typically Tuesdays and Wednesdays), services still remain open to the public via the dedicated liturgical entrance. Please note that exploring or touring the chapel is strictly prohibited during active service times.

For the most up-to-date schedule and special feast day adjustments, please consult the official College of St George schedule.

How long should I spend at Windsor Castle?

Guards in red uniforms marching at Windsor Castle during the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Allow 2–3 hours to explore Windsor Castle. That gives you enough time for the State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, St George’s Chapel, and a short walk around the precincts without rushing through the multimedia guide or the end-of-day visitor flow.

Frequently asked questions about Windsor Castle opening hours

Plan to enter at least 2 hours before closing. Windsor Castle is large enough that arriving much later usually means rushing the State Apartments, missing the chapel route, or finishing just as galleries begin clearing for end-of-day procedures.