Windsor Castle isn’t in London, and it’s not as simple to visit as many believe. Between train logistics, limited opening hours, and the royal calendar, it’s all too easy to mess up. Here’s the best way to visit Windsor Castle, brought to you by local experts.
Quick answer: Book tickets or a tour online in advance, take the train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central, and allow at least 2 hours inside the castle.
The site is enormous, and the exhibits rotate seasonally. Here’s what’s worth your time, and check out our article on the Top Things to See at Windsor Castle.
St. George’s Chapel: Final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Philip, and 10 other monarchs. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Closed to visitors on Sundays.
State Apartments: Formal rooms still used by the royal family for state functions. Filled with art, armor, and regal décor.
Semi-State Rooms: Even more lavish private apartments opened only in the winter months.
Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: A perfectly-to-scale royal home complete with electricity, running water, and a stocked wine cellar.
Castle Grounds: Beautifully maintained gardens and courtyards with great photo opportunities.
👉 Our Private Windsor Castle Tour covers the best exhibits, skips the logistical headaches, and gets you back in London with time for tea.
What to Skip & Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s what to steer clear of:
Don’t assume it’s in London. It takes planning and at least half a day round-trip.
Don’t rush it. You’ll want at least 2 hours inside to explore properly.
Wear proper shoes. Surfaces are uneven, with lots of walking.
Watch your timing. Avoid arriving during midday peak hours.
Book ahead. Same-day tickets tend to sell out by breakfast.
Secret Tip for Visiting Windsor Castle
Want the inside of Stonehenge plus Windsor in the same outing? Choose the VIP Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Castle Tour. It spares you the headache of juggling two separate timed tickets and three train changes.
Instead, you’ll enjoy a comfortable coach ride, walk among the megaliths during a private sunrise or sunset slot, and skip the line at Windsor Castle for an audio-guided palace visit.
Interessante Fact: Only 0.3 % of Stonehenge visitors ever set foot inside the stone circle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Windsor Castle
What is the best way to visit Windsor Castle from London?
Book a tour that leaves from Central London and includes an expert guide. You’ll experience the best parts of the Castle without having to worry about logistics.
Is Windsor Castle open every day?
No. The castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except in July, August, and September when it is open most Tuesdays. The castle is also closed for state events.
Can you see the Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle?
Yes, the Changing of the Guards takes place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 11:00 am. Arrive 20 minutes early for a good viewpoint on the High Street side.
Are St George’s Chapel and the State Apartments included in the ticket?
Standard admission covers St George’s Chapel (except Sundays), the State Apartments, and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
Where to Eat Near Windsor Castle
Photo courtesy of The Duchess of Cambridge Pub
Here’s where our guides go:
The Undercroft Cafe | ££ | Inside the castle Scones, tea, cakes, and sandwiches in a vaulted medieval space.
Windsor Castle is so much more than a day trip box to tick. Slow down, do your research or join a guided tour, and let yourself by carried away by the intrigue of the British monarchy.
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Angel Castellanos, www.AngelsTravelLounge.com , is a multi-media travel expert and travel journalist that has appeared on BBC News, Los Angeles Times, Fox News, ABC, NBC, CBS, Univision, Frommers Radio, USA Today. Angel is also an acclaimed speaker appearing as a featured travel expert with the Travel & Adventure Show and New York Times Travel Show. 80+ Countries, 5 Continents and counting. He's passionate about travel to Europe, especially to Italy & France, countries he's visited every year of his adult life.
