London Tickets

Windsor Castle State Apartments

4.5(64.1K Ratings)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.

Windsor Castle State Apartments






From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
FRANCISCO MIGUEL GAMEZ LLANES

Francisco

Jul 2025
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The guide was very kind and profesional, all the stories and information was very interesting. Was an amazing experience.
Gergana Kirova
BG

Gergana

Bulgaria
Jul 2025
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+2 more

Everything about our trip to Windsor/Stonehenge/Oxford was amazing! Our guide Phil and our driver Amajit were very helpful. Phil is an outstanding guide and very informative about our journey and destinations. We had a great time and we will definitely use the agency more in the future!
Miriam Hoesen

Miriam

Apr 2025
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review-image
Comfortable bus. Driver Patrick and guide Chrissie friendly and Chrissie knew a lot about all the sights. Everything was well organized. Despite not being able to go to Oxford due to a blowout on the highway. Fortunately Patrick was able to stop the bus on an emergency lane. Waiting for new transportation took time and it was too late to go to Oxford. Even so, we were still on the road for 11 hours. We were to receive a refund from the bus company. This was also arranged the same day. Too bad v Oxford, can happen and handled well and quickly.
Adele Parker
GB

Adele

United Kingdom
Jun 2025
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Windsor Castle is well worth a visit. Loved the dolls house, the audio tour and looking at the architecture/contents of the castle. We found the emails from Headout a little confusing. Some said we needed to print off the tickets, some said to use the app. We were a bit worried that it was a scam.
Paulina Narváez García
CL

Paulina

Chile
May 2025
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The imposing castle, its gardens, the view, all very well organized and coordinated visits to internal sectors, impeccable staff, friendly, it is a great experience.
Guillermina Chávez Limon
MX

Guillermina

Mexico
Jun 2025
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Everything is great, very nice and an excellent organization. Only I could not enter the St. George's Cathedral. Personally it is an unforgettable experience.
Gervasio Parente
DE

Gervasio

Germany
Jul 2025
That's what we needed: I think that paying the single ticket isn't sometime worthy for some attraction but the London ticket prices was fair enough.
Abdulaziz Albassam
SA

Abdulaziz

Saudi Arabia
Apr 2025
The pass allowed for spontaneous planning and enabled easy access to multiple locations through one ticket. I loved the variety of options and how clear the instructions were.

Top things to do in London

The State Apartments | Windsor Castle's grand rooms for ceremonies and state events

Located in Windsor Castle's Upper Ward, the State Apartments are the castle's main public and ceremonial rooms, offering visitors a look at impressive interiors and art used for official events. Explore lavishly furnished chambers adorned with masterpieces from the Royal Collection, including paintings by renowned artists like Van Dyck and Rubens.

Where is it located?

The State Apartments are located within the Upper Ward of Windsor Castle. These rooms run along the north side of the quadrangle within the Upper Ward.

How to access the State Apartments

Access to the State Apartments is included in all ​Windsor Castle tickets.

Things to know before booking State Apartment tickets

  • Ticketed entry: When you book a ​ticket for Windsor Castle, access to the State Apartments is included in the price. You do not need to purchase a separate ticket to view them.
  • Accessibility limitations: Step-free access is available to the State Apartments via a lift from the North Terrace. There is also ramped access from Engine Court to an alternative entrance of the State Apartments. The route within the State Apartments involves some steps between different rooms, but there are alternative step-free routes using lifts.
  • Timings: While the State Apartments generally follow the opening hours of Windsor Castle (10am to 5:15pm from Mar to Oct and 10am to 4:15pm from Nov to Feb), entry to the State Apartments typically closes 30 mins after the last admission time for the castle itself. 
  • Closures: As Windsor Castle is a working royal palace, the entire castle or parts of it, including the State Apartments, can be closed at short notice for official events or other reasons. Check the official Royal Collection Trust website for the most up-to-date closure information.
  • Semi-State Rooms: If you are visiting between autumn and spring, your ticket might also include access to the Semi-State Rooms. However, these rooms are not open when the State Apartments are closed.

Why visit the Windsor Castle State Apartments

windsor castle state apartments
  • Year built: 14th century
  • Founder: Edward III
  • Must-see highlights: Grand Reception Room, St. George's Hall, The King’s Gallery, King's Drawing Room, Waterloo Chamber
  • Unique facts:
  • Many of the artworks and furniture pieces in the State Apartments are part of the Royal Collection.
  • The Garter Throne Room is where investiture ceremonies are often held. Here, the monarch bestows honors upon individuals who have made significant contributions.

What to see inside the State Apartments

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Queen Victoria's Guard Chamber

This room once served as a waiting room for those with audiences with the monarch. Admire the display of weaponry of swords, muskets, and pistols arranged decoratively on the walls. You’ll also see portraits of military figures or members of the royal family.

Presence Chamber

This was where the monarch received important guests and officials. Marvel at the tapestries, depicting historical or mythological scenes, and the throne canopy. This room is one of only three rooms at Windsor that retain their late 17th-century ceilings and decoration.

Audience Chamber

This room was used for more formal audiences with the Queen. Here, you will find a state portrait of the reigning monarch or a significant historical portrait. In the 1830s it was remodelled by Wyatville as the Ante-Throne Room.

King’s Drawing Room

This room was used by the King for withdrawing after formal occasions and for entertaining more select guests. Look for the plasterwork on the ceilings, with symbolic motifs. Verrio’s ceiling depicted the Assembly of the Gods which Wyatville replaced.

King's Bedchamber

While you won't see a modern-day royal bedroom, this bedchamber’s highlight is the elaborate state bed, portraits of the monarch and consort, and personal items that might have been associated with the room's historical occupants.

King's Dressing Room

This smaller room adjacent to the bedchamber was used by the King for dressing and private audiences. Look for furniture pieces like writing desks and mirrors, as well as smaller personal artworks for a more intimate glimpse into the daily life of the monarch.

Grand Reception Room

This is the largest room in the State Apartments. Highlights include chandeliers, vast tapestries depicting the history of the Order of the Garter, and a beautiful view of the Long Walk. This room is used for large-scale formal events, such as state banquets.

St. George's Hall

Rebuilt after the 1992 fire, the most striking feature of this hall is the hammerbeam roof adorned with the coats of arms of the Knights and Ladies of the Garter throughout history. Look for the long tables set for state banquets and royal occasions, and the musicians' gallery.

Waterloo Chamber

This room commemorates the victory at the Battle of Waterloo. The main features are the numerous portraits of the allied commanders and other key figures, like monarchs and statesmen, involved in the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte.

Queen Mary's Dolls' House

This incredibly detailed and miniature house features working electricity, plumbing, and even tiny bottles of real wine. It contains works from over 1,500 of the finest artists, craftspeople and manufacturers of the early 20th century.

Crimson Drawing Room

This room is known for its crimson damask wall hangings - here the royal family could host intimate gatherings and entertain smaller groups. Look for the collection of furniture, upholstered in coordinating fabrics, and the paintings, decorative porcelain and other objets d'art.

Green Drawing Room

Similar to the Crimson Drawing Room, this room is defined by its green silk damask wall hangings and French furniture from the 18th century. This space also provided a setting for more informal royal interactions and entertainment.

State Dining Room

This room is designed for formal dining occasions. A long, polished dining table set with elaborate silverware and porcelain, dominates the space. Look for the grand sideboards displaying plates and the portraits of past monarchs that line the walls.

Architectural highlights of the State Apartments

windsor castle state apartments

1820s: Gothic Revival style

This is the dominant style today, influenced by the remodeling undertaken during the reign of King George IV in the 1820s. Architect Sir Jeffry Wyatville gave the exterior of the Upper Ward and many of the State Apartments their current castle-like appearance with crenellations, pointed windows, and towers.

windsor castle state apartments

14th century: Medieval style

The foundation of the State Apartments, particularly around the inner courtyards, dates back to the 14th century. William of Wykeham oversaw the work under Edward III, transforming the Upper Ward into a palace with apartments for the King and Queen.

windsor castle state apartments

1670s: Baroque style

Following the Restoration, King Charles II modernized the interiors in the 1670s. Architect Hugh May was key here, creating grand Baroque-style state rooms intended to rival continental European palaces. Highlights are the classical proportions, elaborate plasterwork (by Henry Doogood), and opulent detailing.

Key architectural features

windsor castle state apartments

Grand proportions and enfilade

The State Rooms follow an "enfilade" layout, where rooms are connected by a series of doorways, creating long vistas and a sense of procession.

windsor castle state apartments

Elaborate plasterwork

Particularly evident in rooms with Baroque origins or influence, the ceilings often feature intricate plasterwork with symbolic motifs, floral patterns, and heraldic devices.

windsor castle state apartments

Tall windows

The large windows provide ample natural light and offer views of the castle grounds, including the Long Walk. The window style evolved from more classical forms to pointed Gothic arches during the 19th-century remodeling.

windsor castle state apartments

Impressive fireplaces

Grand fireplaces, made of marble or other fine stone, served as focal points in the rooms and are frequently adorned with carvings and historical details.

windsor castle state apartments

Decorative wall coverings

The walls are adorned with rich fabrics like damask and velvet, tapestries depicting historical or mythological scenes, and paneling. However, the color schemes have varied over time.

windsor castle state apartments

Hammerbeam Roof

A great example of medieval timber construction, the hammerbeam roof of St. George's Hall, though a reconstruction after the fire, is adorned with the coats of arms of the Knights of the Garter.

Know before you go to the Windsor Castle State Apartments

windsor castle state apartments

The Castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

  • Nov 1 to Feb 29: 10am to 4:15pm (Last entry: 3pm)
  • Mar 1 to Oct 31: 10am to 5:15pm (Last entry: 4pm)

Entry to the State Apartments closes 30 mins after the last admission time.

The Semi-State Rooms usually open from autumn-spring each year. They are currently closed until autumn 2025.

Windsor Castle timings

Address: Windsor SL4 1NJ, United Kingdom | ​Find on Maps

  • By bus: 702, 703
    Nearest stop: Parish Church (Stop J)
  • By train: GWR, South Western Railway
    Nearest station: Windsor & Eton Central
  • By car: Via A4 and M4
    Nearest parking: Romney Lock and King Edward VII car parks on Datchet Road
  • By guided tour: Evan Evans Tours
    Nearest stop: Windsor Castle
Getting to Windsor Castle
windsor castle state apartments
  • Baby changing facilities: Baby changing facilities are available at Windsor Castle, though not directly inside the State Apartments.
  • Storage: Cloakroom facilities are available at Windsor Castle, where you can leave larger items. However, it's always best to avoid bringing large bags.
  • Educational Resources: Family trails and activity sheets are available for children.
windsor castle state apartments
  • Strollers: Strollers and buggies are not permitted inside the State Apartments. You will need to leave them in a designated area. However, baby carriers are permitted.
  • Baggage policy: Large bags, suitcases, and backpacks are not permitted. Smaller bags like handbags and small shoulder bags are allowed, but they may be subject to security checks.
  • Photography: Photography is strictly prohibited inside the State Apartments.
  • Outside food and drinks: No food or drinks are allowed inside the apartments. But there are cafés on the castle grounds where you can refuel before or after your visit.
  • Pets: Pets are not allowed, but service animals are welcome.

Visitor tips and guidelines

  • Time your visit around the guard change: Plan your visit to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony at 11am, then head straight to the State Apartments. If you want to skip the ceremony, use this time to access the State Apartments while they’re less crowded. You’ll practically have the rooms to yourself for 20–30 mins.
  • Ask the wardens questions: They know all the little-known historical gems and off-script stories that aren’t in the guidebook.
  • Don’t skip the ceilings: In rooms like the Grand Reception Room and St. George’s Hall, the ornate ceilings are as elaborate as the furnishings. Look up and admire the craftsmanship, especially the gilded stucco and heraldic symbols. 
  • Check for closures: The Queen’s Drawing Room and King’s Dining Room aren’t always open. These two rooms are sometimes rotated out due to conservation work or royal use.
  • If you’re visiting during the last admission: Explore the Apartments after St. George’s Chapel if you’re arriving close to last admission. The chapel closes earlier than the rest of the Castle, usually around 4pm, while the Apartments stay open a bit longer. 
  • Study the miniature doorways: Look for small doors tucked into the wood paneling in some rooms. These aren't children's entrances but for servants, designed to be discreet and blend into the decor.
  • Visit during special exhibition seasons: Windsor Castle, during April–October, usually has something extra. The State Apartments often host rotating exhibits of rarely-seen royal artifacts, like Fabergé pieces, royal fashion, or early manuscripts.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Windsor Castle State Apartments

How far in advance should I book tickets?

During peak tourist season (spring break, summer holidays, and bank holiday weekends), it is highly recommended to book your Windsor Castle tickets at least several weeks, if not months, in advance. Time slots sell out quickly, especially for popular times of the day (e.g., late morning and early afternoon). While you can buy tickets on the day, availability is not guaranteed, and you can expect long queues and potential disappointment if your desired time slot is full.

Can I visit the State Apartments multiple times with the same ticket?

No, your ticket grants one-time entry only. So make it count—look up, look around, and take it all in!

Are the Windsor Castle State Apartments open throughout the year?

The State Apartments are working royal residences, so they can close with little notice due to state visits, official ceremonies, or other royal events. During the summer opening (August and September), you can often see a greater number of rooms, including the private apartments. It's always best to check the official Royal Collection Trust website on the day of your visit for the most up-to-date information on which apartments are accessible.

How long should I plan to spend in the State Apartments?

Most visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours inside the State Apartments, soaking up the history and grandeur. But if you’re an art or history buff, you might want a bit longer to linger.

Are the State Apartments accessible?

Accessibility within the State Apartments is limited due to the historic nature of the building, which includes numerous steps and uneven surfaces. Step-free access is not available to all areas. However, the main State Apartments can be accessed via a lift.

Is photography allowed inside the State Apartments?

Nope—sadly, photography is not allowed inside. But trust us, these rooms are so regal, they’ll be etched in your memory forever.

What other sub-attractions are included in the Windsor Castle ticket?

The Windsor Castle ticket typically grants access to the precincts, St. George's Chapel, and the Drawings Gallery.

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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.