The State Apartments at Windsor Castle
Explore the opulent State Apartments at Windsor Castle, a stunning showcase of British royal history and architectural grandeur.
The State Apartments at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England, are a magnificent suite of grand rooms rich in royal history and architectural styles. These apartments serve as the official reception rooms where the British monarch welcomes heads of state and foreign dignitaries. Featuring Rococo, Gothic, Baroque, and Classical interiors, the apartments showcase exquisite furnishings, fine art, and historic medieval features within one of the world's oldest and largest inhabited castles.
A brief summary to The State Apartments
- Windsor Castle, Windsor, Windsor, SL4 1QF, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your Windsor Castle and State Apartments tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
- Photography is not allowed inside the State Apartments to protect the interiors, so enjoy the experience visually.
- Take time to explore the nearby St George’s Chapel and castle grounds for a fuller understanding of Windsor’s royal heritage.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the castle complex involves walking over uneven historic surfaces.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take a train from London Paddington or London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Central or Windsor & Eton Riverside stations, with journey times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. From either station, it is a 15-20 minute walk uphill to Windsor Castle and the State Apartments. Train tickets cost approximately £10-£20 one way, depending on time and ticket type.
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Bus Service
Use the Green Line 702 or local buses from London Victoria or Heathrow Airport to Windsor. The bus journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Bus fares typically range from £8 to £15. Buses stop near Windsor town center, requiring a 10-15 minute walk to the castle.
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Car and Parking
Driving to Windsor Castle is possible but parking is limited and paid. The nearest public car parks are about a 10-minute walk from the castle. Expect to pay £10-£20 for parking. Traffic congestion can occur, especially on weekends and holidays.
The State Apartments location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The State Apartments
A Majestic Royal Residence with Millennia of History
Windsor Castle, located in Berkshire about 40 km west of London, is one of the most iconic royal residences in the world. The State Apartments form the centerpiece of the castle’s Upper Ward and are built on medieval foundations laid by Edward III. These apartments have evolved over centuries, blending medieval structures with 19th-century architectural enhancements by Jeffry Wyatville. The castle itself embodies nearly a thousand years of British history and has been a favored royal home, including for Queen Elizabeth II.Architectural Styles and Artistic Splendor
The State Apartments are renowned for their diverse architectural styles, each room designed to reflect a particular era and aesthetic. Visitors can admire Rococo, Gothic, Baroque, Classical, and Jacobethan influences throughout the interiors. Wyatville’s early 19th-century redesign intended to showcase matching furnishings and fine arts that complement each style, creating an immersive historical experience. The apartments are lavishly decorated with ornate ceilings, grand staircases, and priceless artworks.Historic Features and Medieval Heritage
Beneath the grandeur of the State Apartments lies the Great Undercroft, a vast medieval vaulted space dating back to the 14th century. This undercroft, approximately 59 meters long and 9 meters wide, remains a striking reminder of the castle’s medieval origins. The ground floor also includes service chambers and cellars that supported the royal household. Nearby, the lodgings of the Military Knights and the Governor’s residence, dating from the 16th century, add to the historic atmosphere.A Venue for Royal Ceremonies and State Occasions
The State Apartments are not only a historic attraction but also an active part of royal life. They serve as the official setting where the monarch hosts visiting heads of state and foreign dignitaries. The grandeur and formality of the rooms reflect their ceremonial importance, with impressive tables, paintings, and royal regalia on display. These apartments provide a glimpse into the pomp and protocol of the British monarchy.Surroundings and Nearby Attractions within Windsor Castle
The apartments are situated within the castle’s Upper Ward, a quadrangle surrounded by other historic buildings including the famous St George’s Chapel, a masterpiece of English Perpendicular Gothic architecture. Visitors exploring the State Apartments can also enjoy the castle’s extensive grounds, gardens, and other wards, each offering unique insights into royal history and architecture.Experience and Visitor Information
Access to the State Apartments is included with Windsor Castle admission, which also grants entry to other key sites within the castle precincts. Photography inside the apartments is strictly prohibited to preserve their delicate interiors. The apartments are a highlight for those interested in British history, royal heritage, and architectural beauty, offering a rich and immersive cultural experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
0.1 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
King Edward III Tower
0.1 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
0.3 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
0.4 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.4 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
The Curfew Tower
0.4 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
0.4 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
0.5 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
Harry Greenwood Blue Plaque
0.6 km
Discover the legacy of WWI hero Lt Col Harry Greenwood at his birthplace marked by a blue plaque in historic Windsor.
Sydney Camm Memorial
1.0 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Burning Bush
1.0 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
Miniland
4.1 km
Explore Miniland at LEGOLAND® Windsor, where famous landmarks are reimagined in stunning LEGO detail, offering a family-friendly adventure for all ages.
King George III & His Horse Statue
4.4 km
Majestic bronze statue of King George III atop Snow Hill, crowned by stunning views along Windsor Great Park’s historic Long Walk.
John F Kennedy Memorial
4.9 km
A solemn tribute to President Kennedy on historic English soil, linking liberty's roots across the Atlantic at Runnymede.
Unmissable attractions to see
Windsor Castle
0.1 km
Explore Windsor Castle, the historic royal residence, and uncover centuries of British history within its majestic walls and beautiful gardens.
St George's Chapel
0.3 km
Discover the majestic St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, a Gothic masterpiece and royal sanctuary steeped in centuries of British history.
Theatre Royal Windsor
0.4 km
A historic Georgian theatre in the heart of Windsor, staging classic drama, pantomime, and new work in an intimate, ornate auditorium.
The Crooked House of Windsor
0.4 km
Discover England’s oldest teahouse with its charming crooked architecture and cozy café atmosphere just steps from Windsor Castle.
Windsor Parish Church of St John the Baptist
0.4 km
Historic Gothic Revival church in Windsor with rich heritage, artistic treasures, and a welcoming spiritual community near Windsor Castle.
Windsor Guildhall
0.4 km
Historic 17th-century Guildhall in Windsor offering regal wedding ceremonies with royal portraits and elegant event spaces for up to 100 guests.
Queen Charlotte Street
0.4 km
Discover England’s shortest street, a charming cobblestone lane steeped in history and Victorian elegance, right by Windsor Castle.
Windsor & Royal Borough Museum
0.4 km
Explore Windsor’s rich heritage through thousands of artifacts and stories within the historic Guildhall’s welcoming museum.
Queen Elizabeth II: Windsor memorial drinking fountain
0.4 km
A regal and sustainable tribute to Queen Elizabeth II offering free drinking water in the historic heart of Windsor.
Shami's Corner
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Shami's Corner in Windsor, where scenic views meet delightful local flavors in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Ancient well
0.4 km
Discover Windsor’s Ancient Well: a tranquil historic landmark nestled near the royal castle, rich with centuries of local heritage and timeless charm.
Soldier's Statue
0.4 km
Explore Windsor's Soldier's Statue, a historic landmark honoring the courage of soldiers amidst the beauty of the city.
Windsor Eton Bridge UK
0.4 km
Historic 19th-century pedestrian bridge linking Windsor and Eton with scenic Thames views and rich heritage.
Sculpture
0.5 km
Explore Eton's iconic sculpture, a stunning emblem of art and history nestled by the River Thames, enriching your journey through Windsor.
Eton & Eton wick information centre
0.5 km
Your friendly gateway to Eton’s heritage, local art, and visitor services on High Street near Windsor Bridge.
Essential places to dine
Lebanese Nights
0.3 km
Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant dining scene.
Clarence Brasserie & Tea Room
0.3 km
A cozy blend of Italian flavors and traditional English tea near Windsor Castle, perfect for relaxed dining and classic afternoon tea.
The Boatman
0.4 km
Windsor’s charming riverside gastropub offering classic British fare, scenic Thames views, and a relaxing atmosphere by the water.
The Queen Charlotte
0.4 km
A welcoming British pub near Windsor Castle, offering hearty roasts, local ales, and cozy charm in the heart of Windsor.
Giggling Squid - Windsor
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Thai flavors and lively ambiance at Giggling Squid, Windsor’s go-to spot for authentic and adventurous Thai dining.
Plate at No. 6
0.4 km
An intimate Windsor tapas restaurant serving vibrant Mediterranean small plates in a stylish, open-kitchen setting with al fresco views of Windsor Castle.
1423 China Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors in a historic Windsor setting, blending centuries-old heritage with vibrant Cantonese, Sichuan, and Shanghainese cuisine.
Latino
0.4 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors in a vibrant, spotless setting at the heart of Windsor’s lively dining scene.
Maison Meejana
0.4 km
Discover authentic Lebanese cuisine in a cozy Windsor setting, blending traditional flavors with modern hospitality near Windsor Castle.
Bluegrass BBQ
0.4 km
Authentic American barbecue flavors served in a lively Windsor setting near the iconic castle.
Thai Square Windsor
0.4 km
Upscale Thai dining with authentic flavors and elegant ambiance opposite Windsor Castle on Thames Street.
The Real Greek - Windsor
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors and vibrant Mediterranean hospitality at The Real Greek - Windsor, nestled by the scenic Thames.
Zizzi - Windsor
0.4 km
Enjoy fresh Italian classics and warm hospitality opposite Windsor Castle in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
The Brasserie at Sir Christopher Wren
0.4 km
Modern European dining with riverside views and friendly service in the heart of historic Windsor.
Eighteen
0.4 km
Elegant dining on Windsor’s High Street, blending classic charm with modern culinary excellence and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Middle Ward Shop
0.3 km
Royal souvenirs and gifts within Windsor Castle's historic Middle Ward.
Wellington 1895 Antiques Windsor
0.3 km
Centuries of curated treasures in Windsor's most distinguished antique shop.
Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover charming and affordable keepsakes at Windsor Gifts & Souvenirs, your perfect stop for memorable treasures near Windsor Castle.
House Of Gifts
0.4 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at House Of Gifts, your friendly stop near the castle for memorable keepsakes and affordable treasures.
Great British Gifts
0.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artisan treasures just steps from Windsor Castle at Great British Gifts.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.4 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and classic styles at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Windsor’s historic Castle Hill.
King & Queen Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover royal-themed gifts and charming souvenirs steps from Windsor Castle at the King & Queen Gift Shop.
A Little Present
0.4 km
Explore 'A Little Present' in Windsor - your destination for unique gifts, handcrafted souvenirs, and local treasures to cherish forever.
Purple Gifts
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures that capture the charm and creativity of Windsor at Purple Gifts.
Indelibly Windsor
0.4 km
Discover Windsor’s culture and heritage through unique gifts and expert visitor services at Indelibly Windsor on High Street.
Glorious Britain
0.4 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and gifts in the heart of historic Windsor at Glorious Britain gift shop.
Windsor Wine & Gifts
0.4 km
Discover unique wines and charming gifts in the heart of Windsor, steps from the iconic Windsor Castle and the scenic Thames.
A P Souvenirs & Gifts
0.4 km
Discover charming Windsor souvenirs and gifts at A P Souvenirs & Gifts, your convenient stop near Windsor Castle for memorable keepsakes.
Windsor Royal Station
0.4 km
Independent shopping in a Victorian railway arch at the heart of historic Windsor.
Mint Velvet Windsor
0.5 km
Discover relaxed glamour and timeless women's fashion at Mint Velvet Windsor, your stylish boutique in Windsor Royal Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Royal Windsor
0.3 km
Lively pub with stunning Windsor Castle views, artisan drinks, traditional British dishes, and a large beer garden for all occasions.
The Cobbles
0.3 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
La planchette
0.4 km
Discover Windsor’s charming French wine bar with exquisite wines, artisanal pairings, and riverside ambiance on Thames Avenue.
The Horse & Groom
0.4 km
Historic and welcoming English pub opposite Windsor Castle, offering hearty food, local ales, and cosy accommodation in the heart of Windsor.
The Carpenters Arms
0.4 km
Historic pub in Windsor serving classic British fare and cask ales in a welcoming, artisan-inspired setting near Windsor Castle.
The Prince Harry
0.4 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
The Shambles
0.4 km
Discover Windsor’s award-winning bar housed in a charmingly tilted historic building, famed for creative cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Two Brewers
0.4 km
Historic 18th-century pub near Windsor Castle offering classic British ales, cozy ambiance, and a charming floral exterior.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
0.4 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
The Corner House
0.5 km
A lively two-floor pub and sports bar in Windsor, offering great drinks, live sports on HD screens, and versatile event spaces.
All Bar One Windsor
0.5 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
Upstairs Windsor
0.6 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
The Acre
0.6 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Sinner Bar
0.7 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
The Piper Art Bar
0.7 km
Discover a vibrant Scottish-themed bar and contemporary art space in the heart of Windsor, offering an extensive whisky selection and eclectic ambiance.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
