Windsor Castle: A Majestic Glimpse into Royal History
Discover the timeless elegance and rich history of Windsor Castle, a quintessential landmark of British royalty and culture.
A brief summary to Windsor Castle
- Windsor, SL4 1NJ, GB
- +443031237334
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5:15 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:15 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:15 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:15 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:15 pm
Windsor Castle, a remarkable blend of history and regal splendor, is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. Located in the picturesque town of Windsor, just a short train ride from London, this iconic landmark has been a home to British monarchs for over a millennium. Its impressive architecture features a mix of medieval, Gothic, and modern styles, with towering walls and turrets that create a captivating skyline against the backdrop of the scenic English countryside. As you explore Windsor Castle, be sure to visit the State Apartments, where lavish furnishings and priceless artworks showcase the grandeur of royal life. Notably, the impressive St. George's Chapel, renowned for its Gothic architecture, serves as the final resting place for several monarchs, including Henry VIII. The chapel's intricate stained glass windows and exquisite stonework are a sight to behold. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a colorful display of British pageantry that takes place regularly, offering an authentic taste of royal tradition. The castle grounds are equally enchanting, featuring beautifully manicured gardens and picturesque paths perfect for a leisurely stroll. With its rich history, breathtaking views, and royal significance, Windsor Castle is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the essence of British culture and heritage.
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance online to avoid long queues at the entrance.
- Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience, as weekends can be very busy.
- Check the schedule for the Changing of the Guard ceremony to ensure you don't miss this iconic event.
- Take a guided tour for deeper insights into the castle's fascinating history and architecture.
- Don't forget to explore the surrounding town of Windsor, which offers charming shops and eateries.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Windsor Castle by car from anywhere in Surrey, you can follow these directions: Start by getting onto the M25 motorway. Depending on your starting point, you may need to connect to the M25 from local roads. If you're near Guildford, take the A3 to the M25. If you're closer to Woking or Staines, use the A320 or A30 to access the M25. Once on the M25, follow the signs for the M4 motorway towards London. Take the exit for the M4 and continue until you reach Junction 6, which will direct you to Windsor. Follow the A355 towards Windsor. When you get into Windsor, follow the signs for Windsor Castle. There is parking available nearby, but be aware that it can be expensive and may require pre-booking during busy periods.
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Train
If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a train to Windsor & Eton Central station, which is the closest station to Windsor Castle. From various locations in Surrey, such as Guildford or Woking, you can catch a South Western Railway service to either Windsor & Eton Central or Windsor & Eton Riverside (the latter requiring a change at Slough). Trains from Guildford usually require a change at either Ascot or Staines. Upon arriving at Windsor & Eton Central, it's about a 10-minute walk to Windsor Castle. Just follow the signs or use a map app for navigation.
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Bus
Another option is to take a bus. Various bus services connect different areas of Surrey to Windsor. For example, if you're in Staines, you can take the Green Line 702 bus, which will take you directly to Windsor. Check local bus timetables for exact timings and routes. Once you arrive in Windsor, follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Windsor Castle, which is usually within walking distance from the bus stops.
Attractions Nearby to Windsor Castle
- King Edward III Tower
- Windsor Castle Quadrangle
- Queen Mary's Dolls' House
- The State Apartments
- St George's Chapel
- Theatre Royal Windsor
- King George V Memorial
- The Crooked House of Windsor
- Queen Charlotte Street
- Queen Elizabeth II: Windsor memorial drinking fountain
- Queen Victoria Statue
- Windsor Guildhall
- Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
- Windsor Parish Church of St John the Baptist
- Dr Choc's Windsor Chocolate Factory
Landmarks nearby to Windsor Castle
- Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
- Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
- Bronze Plaque № 10828
- The Curfew Tower
- H. G. Wells White Plaque
- The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
- Historical Windsor
- Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
- Sydney Camm Memorial
- The Brocas
- Burning Bush
- Duchess of Kent Mausoleum
- Frogmore House and Gardens
- Herschel Park
- LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort