Welcome To Windsor Castle!
Booked your tickets for a London holiday filled with cultural activities, but missing is a royal experience? Windsor Castle is a must-see, a household name for every royal enthusiast worldwide. Every year, 1.5 million visitors journey to Windsor Castle! With its grand scale, centuries of royal stories to absorb and buildings to visit, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed at first. However, fear not! To help you make the most of your time and feel less overwhelmed, we have you covered.
Here’s a simple 2.5-hour tour guide plan, with tips and answers to some of your questions to prepare for a Windsor Castle visit. By the end of this guide, you’ll know what to see and do.
Yet to book your ticket? We do coach trips to Windsor Castle! Get yours through us. Save the trouble of travel planning, enjoy the benefits of a guide and skip the queue with us. To secure all of this, book here.
Starting Your Windsor Castle Tour From London
On arrival, you’re greeted by the Castle’s lovely and professionally dressed wardens. As a good tip, be sure to ask them for directions regarding everything you learn in this guide. (They have a fantastic and kind reputation). You walk up to the Edward Tower III entrance to begin your Windsor experience. First, get a multimedia guide here. These will enrich your experience by providing historical explanations and insights throughout your Windsor Castle tour.
Fortunately, this comes at no extra cost. Thankfully, the multimedia guides are also child-friendly. Should you be travelling with family, you’ll want to get your children listening to Scorch the Dragon guide. Suitable for those aged between 7-11 years in age. As a pleasant surprise, you’ll notice a recognisable voice from a special royal introducing you to Windsor Castle.
Wondering if the multimedia guides provide audio in your home language? Here are the different languages covered. See if you can spot your preferred language. They are English, Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Russian, Brazilian Portuguese and British Sign Language.
Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London Including Entry
From £79
Visit Windsor Castle in Berkshire. Explore St George’s Chapel, State Apartments and other royal attractions your guide will tell you about. You might also get a chance to see the changing of the Windsor Castle Guard.
Windsor's Changing of The Guard Ceremony
- Changing of The Guard duration: 30 Minutes
You’ve collected your guide, heard a royal welcome and guessed right, the royal behind the voice. Now, moving swiftly but gently, make your way towards the Lower Ward courtyard. You’ll come across an open area on your left where the Changing of Guard ceremony takes place. The Changing of Guard at Windsor Castle takes place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 11:00 am.
For the complete royal experience, remember to book a visit on the highlighted days. We cover both Thursdays and Saturdays for our Windsor Castle tour from London. We aim to reach Windsor before 11:00 am, perfect if you want to witness the ceremony.
The Guards at Windsor Castle
Let’s take a brief pit stop here as we explore the famous guards you will come across on your visit to Windsor. The Changing of Guard is a public ceremony dating back to the 17th century. Known as the King’s Guards, each man dressed in red tunics and bearskin hats is from one of the Household divisions & the Household Cavalry of the British Army. The fact that most of the guards have seen action overseas and have been handpicked for the privilege of being a King’s Guard adds to the worthiness of attending the ceremony.
Since their enlistment, the King’s Guards have fulfilled the role of protecting royal sovereigns throughout the history of Windsor Castle. Notably, Elizabeth II frequently lived here and held a special affection for Windsor because of the cherished memories she had made there. Hence, it’s not surprising that Queen Elizabeth II has the longest tenure at the Castle. King Charles III, like his Mother, spends a lot of time at Windsor Castle.
What Happens at The Ceremony
The ceremony starts promptly with the King’s Guard, who will be relieved of duty standing in formation outside the Lower Ward Courtyard, outside the Guard room. Usually, this ranges from 24 to 48 hours. Having taken up your space, you’ll notice the ever closing sound of marching feet, musical instruments in union sounding and drums from outside the walls. Led by one or two of the regimental bands, the new guard march in behind up the hill to the Castle Gates.
Once in, the duties begin, with the Captains leading the changeover. Once over, you will notice the performance by the band. They’ll play military anthems and recognisable pop and movie instrumentals that ring commonly in anyone’s ears! The old guard with the band will then march back down the hill to their Victoria Barracks. You won’t just experience the British/military experience, but this will be fun and engaging should you be with friends or family. The ceremony takes 30 minutes.
What You Need To Remember
As a key insight, you’ll know King Charles III is in residency when the King’s Guard takes place in the Quadrangle. Therefore, take a mental note on entering the castle to see if the Royal Standard flag is flying above the Round Tower. A sure sign of knowing if the King is home at Windsor Castle.
If so, the Changing of The Guard will occur in the Upper Ward grounds. The Upper Ward is through Norman Gate, outside of the Engine Court, but be sure to ask for wardens readily helping hand for direction. As a recommendation, St George’s Gate is great to see the guards march to the upper ward and Engine Court to see the ceremony take place.
You’ll notice every so often, guards in smaller groups, sometimes in twos marching while in the Castle. It’s asked to give them the respect and space. It’s popular to get a quick snap with a Guard on sentry, which is allowed. When doing this, be sure to keep a respectable distance, be kind and do not utilise flash.
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The State Apartments of Windsor Castle
- State Apartments estimated duration: 1 Hour
The State Apartments are the most popular attraction at Windsor Castle. Your multimedia guide will benefit you here. As you tour the apartments, you’ll step into history and experience their original design for sovereigns such as George IV. Throughout history, even today – The apartments have varied in use. These included state banquets, royal receptions, presentations, award ceremonies, etc. Popular rooms among visitors are the Grand Reception Room, Waterloo Chamber & the Crimson Drawing Room.
As you move through the apartments, expect artistic influences and spectacular furniture from the likes of Van Dyck, chandeliers, statues, gold intertwined fabric and much more. Travelling with family? To entertain the imagination of your children, don’t miss the various animals depicted within the artworks. Here’s a golden nugget: ask the children which animals they spot as you enter the State Apartments.
The Grand Reception Room
Perhaps one of the most popular or fascinating rooms you’ll experience on your visit is the Grand Reception Room. King Charles II built the room, which dates back to the 17th century. One of the largest rooms, it was no wonder it served as a ballroom on occasions. Not only is it grand in style, but so is the gold theme of the room. You’ll notice the use of gold gilding, and the crystal chandeliers that illuminate the room. As you walk into the room, catch a sense of awe, wonder and prestige of the British monarchy.
What You Need To Remember
It’s recommended to take your time. As a good tip, don’t be shy to ask questions of the staff that may intrigue you. Use your multimedia guide in order to get the best experience when wondering about the State Apartments.
Though obvious, be mindful of others, maintain a decent volume and avoid touching displays when exploring the rooms. Should you have accessibility requirements, ask Windsor Castle’s onsite staff for help, as apartments may differ in accessibility. It’s encouraged to call or email beforehand, which will enable you to better plan your trip.
Queen Mary’s Dolls' House
- Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House estimated duration: 20-30 Minutes
As you pass by the State Apartments, the gentle guidance of signs directs you to the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. One for the kids! You won’t want to miss this! Make a sudden stop before leaving the State apartments. Designers crafted the Dolls’ House as a 1:12 replica with intricate details for Queen Mary in 1924. More so to its impressive design, the Doll’s House has running water, electricity, books with individual pages and wine bottles with real wine!
St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle
- St George’s Chapel estimated duration: 30 Minutes
Last but not least, is St George’s Chapel – making for a sober and sincere end to your tour of Windsor Castle. Going back to the 14th Century during King Edward III’s era, you’ll appreciate the style of architecture from both the exterior and interior of the Chapel. Such a style is Gothic themed, which you’ll notice from many old churches in England.
Not just a place of historical significance to Christianity or the Royal family. St George’s Chapel is a key place of worship for many people. The Statue of Knights, the flags and the upper choir stalls leading up to the raised altar may intrigue you on your visit. It’s not just design, it’s connected to the Order of The Garter. Founded in 1348 by King Edward III, it’s the oldest and highest chivalry in the world. In today’s world, the King gives honorary membership to those who have displayed great service and honour to the United Kingdom. Each 16 of the knights represents sovereigns of order from the royal family. While each flag represents living knights of today.
Prominent Events at Windsor Chapel
You may recall royal events in the recent years. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had their marriage at St George’s Chapel. The most recent and most famous, Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral. The Chapel is her resting place, besides her parents George VI and Queen Elizabeth. Did you, along with billions worldwide, watch the funeral procession and committal? Visiting St George’s Chapel will be one of surreal privilege & awe if you look to pay respects to one of the most admired people in the world.
What You Need To Remember
Note that St. George’s Chapel, although open to the public, is a place of worship. Visitors at the historical landmark are required to behave well-mannered and maintain a respectful demeanour.
End of Your Day Trip
There’s much to enjoy, learn and experience on your visit, so knowing a guide plan will help you make the most out of your visit. Your visit will leave you with royal gratitude and a greater understanding of British History. All in the space of 2.5 hours. Avoid travel planning and the queue, consider our Coach Trips to Windsor Castle. There is our Half-Day Windsor Castle Tour from London. In addition, there is our Stonehenge & Windsor Castle Tour. A great tour should you want to visit the famous Stonehenge, but visit Windsor Castle in the afternoon when it’s less busy. Perhaps a catered tour with a specific itinerary suits you. Contact us should you want a private tour planned.
Extras Outside Windsor Castle
Settling at The Undercroft Cafe
Should time permit, after an intimate and grand tour of royal history – A short lunch break brings a lovely end to your time at Windsor. As an onsite cafe, the Undercroft Cafe adds to the experience without having to exit and find a local cafe. Enjoy the interior design of what was once a wine cellar and enjoy local produce. Meats, chicken, fish and free-range eggs are certified and approved by the likes of MSC & Red Tractor. In addition, should your dietary requirements be vegetarian or vegan, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your needs. Find their menu here.
Windsor Great Park & The Long Walk
Outside of Windsor Castle is the Windsor Great Park. Open to the public and a great way to enjoy your time in Windsor or after visiting the Castle. Available to you are Virginia Water Lake, Savill Garden, Swimley Forest and the 2.6-mile-long Long Walk from Windsor Castle. Discover more about these hidden park gems here. In addition, a useful tip, click here to plan your trip around the park.
Day trips from London & Private Group Tours
Join us on popular day trips from London and ditch the travel planning to focus on attractions you want to see. Learn about our Private Group Tours also!
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