Windsor Castle is not just one of London’s most iconic landmarks; it is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the
world and a powerful symbol of British monarchy, history, and
heritage. Located in the historic town of Windsor, just outside London, the
castle has served as a royal residence for nearly 1,000 years and continues to play an active role
in royal life today.
From magnificent State Apartments and priceless
artworks to royal chapels and ceremonial traditions, Windsor Castle offers
visitors a truly immersive journey through British history. This detailed guide
covers everything you need to
know before visiting Windsor Castle, including opening timings,
ticket prices, history, top attractions, travel tips, accessibility, best time
to visit, and much more.
About Windsor Castle – An Overview
Windsor Castle stands proudly on a chalk hill
overlooking the River Thames. It was originally built by William the Conqueror in
the 11th century and has since been expanded, renovated, and inhabited by
almost every British monarch.
Key Facts About Windsor Castle
·
Location:
Windsor, Berkshire (near London)
·
Founded:
11th century (around 1070)
·
Architectural
Style: Norman, Gothic, Baroque, Georgian
·
Current
Use: Royal residence and official venue
·
UNESCO
Status: Part of the Thames Valley historic landscape
·
Owner:
The British Crown
Unlike many castles that serve purely as
museums, Windsor Castle is still a working
royal palace, hosting state banquets, royal ceremonies, and
official events.
History of Windsor Castle
Origins Under William the Conqueror
Windsor Castle was built shortly after the
Norman invasion of England in 1066. William the Conqueror selected the site due
to its strategic position near London and the River Thames, which provided
protection and control over surrounding lands.
The original structure was a wooden motte-and-bailey castle,
later rebuilt in stone.
Medieval Expansion (12th–15th Century)
Several monarchs strengthened and expanded
Windsor Castle during the medieval period:
·
Henry
I was the first king to live at Windsor Castle.
·
Henry
III added defensive walls and luxurious royal apartments.
·
Edward
III, who was born at Windsor, transformed the castle into a
magnificent Gothic palace and founded the Order of the Garter,
Britain’s oldest order of chivalry.
Tudor and Stuart Periods
During the Tudor era:
·
Henry
VIII frequently used Windsor Castle as a royal residence.
·
The castle became a place for royal ceremonies
and burials.
In the 17th century, Charles I was imprisoned
at Windsor Castle during the English Civil War and later buried in St George’s
Chapel.
Georgian and Victorian Renovations
The most dramatic transformation of Windsor
Castle occurred during the reign of George
IV in the early 19th century. He commissioned architect Sir Jeffry Wyatville to
redesign the castle, giving it its modern appearance.
·
Heightened towers
·
Lavish interiors
·
Grand ceremonial rooms
Later, Queen
Victoria made Windsor Castle her preferred royal residence,
firmly establishing it as a center of royal life.
Modern Era and Restoration
Windsor Castle suffered a devastating fire in 1992, destroying several
rooms. The restoration project, completed in 1997, is considered one of the
most successful heritage restorations in the world.
Today, Windsor Castle remains closely
associated with the monarchy and was a favorite residence of Queen Elizabeth II, who
spent many weekends there.
Windsor Castle Timings (Opening Hours)
Windsor Castle opening times vary by season.
Official Opening Hours
March
to October
·
Opening Time: 10:00 AM
·
Last Entry: 4:00 PM
·
Closing Time: 5:15 PM
November
to February
·
Opening Time: 10:00 AM
·
Last Entry: 3:00 PM
·
Closing Time: 4:15 PM
Note:
Windsor Castle is usually closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, but this can
change depending on royal events.
Seasonal & Special Closures
Because Windsor Castle is an active royal
residence, it may close at short notice for:
·
State visits
·
Royal ceremonies
·
Private royal use
Always check the official schedule before
planning your visit.
Windsor Castle Ticket Price & Entry Fee
Standard Ticket Prices (Approximate)
·
Adults:
£30–£32
·
Young
Persons (18–24): £19–£21
·
Children
(5–17): £15–£17
·
Under
5: Free
·
Family
Ticket: Discounted options available
Prices may vary depending on season and
availability.
What’s Included in the Ticket?
Your Windsor Castle entry ticket includes:
·
Access to State
Apartments
·
Entry to St
George’s Chapel
·
Visit to Semi-State
Rooms (seasonal)
·
Multimedia audio guide
·
Admission to Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
Free Entry Options
You may be eligible for free or discounted
entry if you:
·
Hold a valid Royal Collection Trust pass
·
Are a UK school group (pre-booked)
·
Visit on special
open days
Major Attractions Inside Windsor Castle
1. The State Apartments
The State Apartments are among the most
magnificent royal rooms in England. They are richly decorated with:
·
Gilded ceilings
·
Historic tapestries
·
Original royal furniture
·
Masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens, Canaletto, and Van
Dyck
These rooms are still used for official royal
receptions and ceremonies.
2. St George’s Chapel
St George’s Chapel is a masterpiece of Perpendicular Gothic architecture
and one of the most important religious buildings in England.
Highlights:
·
Burial site of Henry VIII, Charles I, and Queen Elizabeth II
·
Home of the Order of the Garter
·
Stunning stained-glass windows
·
Intricate stone carvings
Visitors are not allowed inside during
services, usually held on Sundays.
3. Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
This extraordinary miniature palace was
created in the 1920s for Queen Mary.
Features include:
·
Working electricity
·
Running water
·
Tiny books written by famous authors
·
Miniature wine cellar stocked with real wine
It is considered the most famous dolls’ house
in the world.
4. Semi-State Rooms
Open seasonally, these lavish rooms were
created for George IV
and are used by the royal family for official occasions.
Decor highlights:
·
Rich red and gold interiors
·
Chandeliers
·
Ornate ceilings
5. The Castle Precincts & Views
Walking around the castle grounds offers
stunning views of:
·
River Thames
·
Eton College
·
Windsor town
The castle’s elevated position makes it one of
the most photogenic landmarks near London.
Best Time to Visit Windsor Castle
Best Season
·
Spring
(March–May): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
·
Summer
(June–August): Long opening hours but very busy
·
Autumn
(September–October): Ideal balance of weather and crowds
·
Winter
(November–February): Quiet but limited access
Best Time of Day
·
Arrive early
morning for fewer crowds
·
Avoid weekends and school holidays if possible
How to Reach Windsor Castle from London
By Train
·
From London
Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central
·
From London
Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside
· Journey time: 35–55 minutes
By Car
·
Distance from central London: ~25 miles
·
Parking available in Windsor town (paid)
By Bus & Coach
·
National Express and local buses operate from
London
·
Slower but economical option
Accessibility Information
Windsor Castle is partially accessible.
Facilities Available
·
Step-free access to some areas
·
Wheelchair loan (subject to availability)
·
Accessible toilets
·
Assistance dogs allowed
Due to the historic nature of the building,
some areas have limited access.
Security & Visitor Guidelines
·
Airport-style security checks at entry
·
Large bags not permitted
·
Photography restricted indoors
·
Respectful dress required in St George’s Chapel
Dining & Shopping at Windsor Castle
Cafés & Refreshments
·
Undercroft Café
·
Seasonal food kiosks
·
Traditional British snacks and beverages
Gift Shops
·
Royal souvenirs
·
Books and prints
·
Jewellery and home décor
·
Exclusive Windsor Castle merchandise
Windsor Castle with Children
Windsor Castle is family-friendly and
educational.
Why Kids Will Love It
·
Knights and castles theme
·
Audio guides for children
·
Interactive displays
·
Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your
Visit
·
Eton
College
·
Windsor
Great Park
·
River
Thames boat cruise
·
Legoland
Windsor Resort
Photography Tips
·
Best exterior shots from the Long Walk
·
Early morning or late afternoon lighting
·
No photography inside State Apartments
Interesting Facts About Windsor Castle
·
It has been a royal residence for over 40 monarchs
·
It covers more than 13 acres
·
The Round Tower is man-made, not natural
·
Windsor Castle is older than the Tower of London
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
·
Book tickets online in advance
·
Wear comfortable walking shoes
·
Carry a light jacket (weather changes quickly)
·
Plan at least 3–4 hours for the visit
Why Windsor Castle Is a Must-Visit Landmark
Windsor Castle is not just a tourist
attraction it is a living monument to British history, tradition, and monarchy.
Whether you are fascinated by royal heritage, architecture, art, or simply want
to explore one of the world’s greatest castles, Windsor Castle offers an
unforgettable experience.
Its proximity to London makes it an easy and rewarding day trip, while its depth of history ensures there is always something new to discover.
Comparison Table: Windsor Castle vs Other Popular Visiting Places Near London
| Attraction Name | Location | Opening Timings | Ticket Price (Adult) | Average Visit Duration | Main Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windsor Castle | Windsor, Berkshire (Near London) | 10:00 AM – 5:15 PM (Mar–Oct) 10:00 AM – 4:15 PM (Nov–Feb) |
£30 – £32 | 3 – 4 Hours | State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, Royal Ceremonies, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House | Royal history lovers, families, first-time UK visitors |
| Buckingham Palace | Central London | 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM (Summer only) | £30 – £32 | 2 – 3 Hours | Changing of the Guard, State Rooms, Royal Art Collection | First-time London visitors |
| Tower of London | Central London | 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM | £33 – £35 | 3 – 4 Hours | Crown Jewels, Medieval Towers, Yeoman Warders | History & culture enthusiasts |
| Hampton Court Palace | Richmond upon Thames | 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM | £26 – £28 | 3 – 4 Hours | Tudor Palace, Maze, Henry VIII History | Tudor history lovers |
| Kensington Palace | London | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | £24 – £26 | 2 – 3 Hours | Royal exhibitions, Princess Diana history | Royal fashion & exhibitions |
| Westminster Abbey | Central London | 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM | £27 – £29 | 1.5 – 2 Hours | Coronations, Royal Tombs, Gothic Architecture | Architecture & religious history lovers |
| British Museum | London | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Free | 2 – 4 Hours | Rosetta Stone, Ancient Civilizations | Budget travelers, families |
| St Paul’s Cathedral | Central London | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM | £23 – £25 | 1.5 – 2 Hours | Dome climb, Whispering Gallery, City views | Architecture lovers & photographers |
| Eton College (Guided Tours) | Windsor | Limited tour hours | £20 – £25 | 1 – 1.5 Hours | Historic school, royal education heritage | Academic & heritage tourists |
| LEGOLAND Windsor Resort | Windsor | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | £30 – £60 | Full Day | Rides, LEGO-themed attractions | Families with kids |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Windsor Castle in London
What are the opening timings of Windsor Castle?
Windsor Castle is generally open from 10:00 AM. From March to October, the castle usually closes at 5:15 PM, while from November to February it closes at 4:15 PM. Last entry is typically one hour before closing. Opening times may change due to royal events.
Is Windsor Castle open every day?
No, Windsor Castle is usually closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. However, closure days can vary depending on official royal use, so visitors are advised to check availability before planning their visit.
What is the ticket price for Windsor Castle?
The standard adult ticket price for Windsor Castle ranges between £30 and £32. Discounted tickets are available for children, young adults, and families, while children under five years can usually enter for free.
Is there any free entry to Windsor Castle?
Free entry is generally available for children under five years. Special free access may also be offered to school groups or on selected open days. Visitors with valid Royal Collection Trust passes may receive discounts or complimentary entry.
What is included in the Windsor Castle entry ticket?
The entry ticket includes access to the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and seasonal access to the Semi-State Rooms, along with a multimedia audio guide.
How long does it take to visit Windsor Castle?
A typical visit to Windsor Castle takes around 3 to 4 hours. Visitors interested in art, architecture, and royal history may wish to spend additional time exploring the grounds and exhibitions.
What is the historical importance of Windsor Castle?
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, with a history spanning nearly 1,000 years. It has served as a royal residence for over 40 monarchs and remains an active palace of the British monarchy.
Who built Windsor Castle?
Windsor Castle was originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century following the Norman invasion of England. It was later expanded by successive monarchs.
Can visitors attend church services at Windsor Castle?
Yes, visitors can attend services at St George’s Chapel, usually held on Sundays. During services, general sightseeing inside the chapel is restricted.
Is photography allowed inside Windsor Castle?
Photography is allowed in the castle’s outdoor areas, but it is not permitted inside the State Apartments or St George’s Chapel to protect historic interiors.
Is Windsor Castle suitable for children?
Yes, Windsor Castle is family-friendly and offers child-focused audio guides, interactive displays, and fascinating attractions such as Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, making it enjoyable for children of all ages.
How do I reach Windsor Castle from London?
Windsor Castle can be easily reached from London by train from London Paddington or London Waterloo. The journey typically takes between 35 and 55 minutes.
Is Windsor Castle wheelchair accessible?
Windsor Castle provides step-free access to many areas, wheelchair loans (subject to availability), and accessible facilities. However, some historic sections may have limited access due to the castle’s age.
What is the best time to visit Windsor Castle?
The best time to visit Windsor Castle is during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and crowds are lighter. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid peak crowds.
Are food and refreshments available inside Windsor Castle?
Yes, visitors can enjoy refreshments at on-site cafés offering light meals, snacks, and beverages. Outside the castle, Windsor town also has many dining options.
Can Windsor Castle be visited as a day trip from London?
Yes, Windsor Castle is one of the most popular day trips from London. Its proximity makes it easy to combine the visit with nearby attractions such as Eton College and Windsor Great Park.
Visiting Windsor Castle is like stepping into nearly a millennium of royal
history. From Norman fortifications to modern ceremonial halls, the castle
tells the story of Britain itself. With its rich heritage, stunning
architecture, and ongoing royal significance, Windsor Castle truly stands as
one of the most remarkable landmarks in
the United Kingdom.
You can also get information about : Hyde Park in London
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