Windsor Castle: The Timeless Royal Fortress and Residence
Explore Windsor Castle, the world's oldest inhabited castle, blending royal history, stunning architecture, and British tradition in a majestic palace setting.
Windsor Castle, located in Windsor, Berkshire, is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, serving as a royal residence for over 900 years. This majestic fortress combines medieval architecture with Georgian and Victorian design, featuring the exquisite State Apartments, the historic St George's Chapel, and expansive gardens. Visitors can explore royal history, art collections, and the ceremonial heart of British monarchy in a setting that remains a working palace today.
A brief summary to The Windsor Castle
- 98 Kings Rd, Windsor, SL4 2AP, GB
- +441753916302
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred entry time and avoid queues.
- Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, and gardens.
- Use the free multimedia or audio guide available in multiple languages for a richer visit.
- Check the castle’s official schedule for closures due to royal events or state functions.
- Visit St George’s Chapel to see the resting place of monarchs and admire its Gothic architecture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Take a direct train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central, which takes about 30 to 50 minutes. Trains run frequently but check schedules for weekend variations. From the station, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the castle. Tickets cost approximately £10-£20 return.
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Bus
Use the Green Line 702 or 703 coach service from London Victoria Coach Station to Windsor, taking around 1 hour 15 minutes. Buses run hourly with fares around £8-£12 one way. The bus stop is near the town center, about a 15-minute walk to the castle.
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Car
Driving to Windsor Castle from London takes approximately 40-60 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available in nearby public car parks, but spaces can be limited during peak times. Parking fees range from £5 to £15 for a day.
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Walking
If staying in Windsor town center, walking to the castle is easy and takes about 10-15 minutes on mostly flat, paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
The Windsor Castle 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 Windsor Castle
A Living Monument of British Monarchy
Windsor Castle stands as a monumental symbol of British royal heritage, continuously inhabited for over nine centuries since its founding by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Strategically perched on a steep hill overlooking the River Thames, it was originally constructed as a timber and earth fortification before evolving into a vast stone castle. Over the centuries, monarchs such as Henry II, Edward III, and George IV expanded and refined the castle, blending medieval fortress elements with elegant Georgian and Victorian architectural styles. Today, it serves as one of the official residences of His Majesty The King and remains a working palace hosting state ceremonies and royal events.The Splendor of the State Apartments
The castle’s State Apartments showcase a superb and unrivalled sequence of rooms richly decorated with gold leaf, intricate tapestries, and some of the finest works of art from the Royal Collection. Visitors can admire masterpieces by artists like Holbein, Rubens, and Van Dyck, alongside exquisite French and English furniture and delicate Sèvres porcelain. These rooms are still used for official visits by heads of state and ceremonial occasions, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and pageantry of the British monarchy. The interiors, adorned with eye-watering chandeliers and lavish décor, reflect the opulence of royal life while echoing the history of the British Empire.St George’s Chapel: A Gothic Masterpiece
Within the castle grounds lies St George’s Chapel, a pinnacle of English Perpendicular Gothic architecture, begun in 1475 and completed fifty years later. The chapel is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter and the resting place of ten monarchs, including Henry VIII and Jane Seymour. Its stunning stained glass windows, grand Victorian door, and intricately vaulted ceilings create a solemn and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The chapel continues to hold royal ceremonies and is a site of profound historical and cultural significance, embodying centuries of British royal tradition.Expansive Grounds and Historic Features
Windsor Castle covers approximately 13 acres, featuring extensive gardens, the iconic Round Tower, and historic structures such as King Henry VIII’s gateway. The grounds offer tranquil views and a peaceful retreat from the bustling town of Windsor. Visitors can explore the castle’s rich military history, including the role of the Military Knights and the ceremonial Changing of the Guard. The castle also houses Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, the largest and most detailed dolls’ house in the world, showcasing miniature craftsmanship from the 1920s.A Visitor Experience Steeped in History
A visit to Windsor Castle typically lasts two to three hours, allowing time to explore the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, and the castle grounds. Audio guides and multimedia tours enhance the experience, offering stories and historical context in multiple languages. The castle is open to the public Thursday through Monday, with closures on certain days for state functions. Its role as a living palace means that access can occasionally be restricted, underscoring its status as a vibrant center of British heritage.Architectural Evolution and Restoration
The castle’s architecture reflects a layered history, from its Norman origins to the extensive Georgian and Victorian redesigns. After a major fire in 1992, significant restoration work preserved and enhanced the castle’s historic fabric. The blend of medieval fortifications with later stylistic influences creates a unique architectural tapestry. The castle’s design balances defensive features such as battlements and arrow loops with the elegance of royal ceremonial spaces, making it a fascinating study in the evolution of royal residences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
The Windsor Lady (The Queen and her Corgis)
0.7 km
Celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s enduring love for her iconic corgis at Windsor’s charming historical landmark, The Windsor Lady.
H. G. Wells White Plaque
0.9 km
Discover the H. G. Wells White Plaque on Windsor’s High Street, marking the early footsteps of a legendary science fiction pioneer.
Mary Delany and Fanny Burney blue plaque
0.9 km
A commemorative plaque honoring Mary Delany’s botanical artistry and Frances Burney’s literary legacy at Windsor Castle’s historic wall.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.0 km
A majestic bronze tribute to Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, standing proudly at Windsor Castle’s entrance, celebrating Victorian royal heritage.
King Edward III Tower
1.1 km
Explore the majestic King Edward III Tower, a stunning medieval landmark within Windsor Castle offering rich history and scenic Thames views.
The Curfew Tower
1.1 km
Explore the medieval Curfew Tower, a historic bell tower and fortress sentinel within Windsor Castle’s ancient walls.
Windsor Castle Quadrangle
1.1 km
The ceremonial heart of Windsor Castle where royal pageantry, Gothic architecture, and 700 years of monarchy converge.
Bronze Plaque № 10828
1.1 km
A subtle yet significant bronze plaque marking Windsor’s rich historical heritage on Thames Street.
Windsor Martyrs' Memorial
1.2 km
A solemn tribute in Windsor honoring Protestant martyrs who bravely faced persecution during England's Reformation.
Sydney Camm Memorial
1.5 km
A full-size Hawker Hurricane replica honouring the Windsor-born designer who shaped aviation history.
Burning Bush
2.0 km
A striking Gothic iron lamp embodying Eton College’s royal heritage and scholastic tradition on the historic High Street.
King George III & His Horse Statue
3.2 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
4.1 km
A solemn tribute to President Kennedy on historic English soil, linking liberty's roots across the Atlantic at Runnymede.
Magna Carta
4.3 km
Discover the birthplace of modern liberty where King John sealed the Magna Carta, shaping constitutional law and individual rights forever.
Unmissable attractions to see
WMServices
0.3 km
Discover the charm of WMServices in Windsor, a must-visit tourist attraction rich in culture and history, perfect for all travelers.
The Long Walk
0.5 km
A majestic 2.65-mile tree-lined ceremonial avenue connecting Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse, steeped in royal history and natural splendor.
Berkshire Yeomanry
0.5 km
Two centuries of Berkshire's volunteer military heritage, from cavalry to signals.
Frogmore Cottage
0.6 km
Historic royal retreat nestled in Windsor’s Frogmore Estate, blending serene gardens with centuries of British monarchy heritage.
Windsor Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky antiques in Windsor Vintage, a charming boutique emporium in the heart of historic Windsor.
Duchess of Kent Mausoleum
0.6 km
A serene royal memorial nestled in the tranquil gardens of Frogmore Estate, honoring Queen Victoria’s mother with Victorian elegance.
The Gothic Ruins
0.7 km
Explore the evocative Gothic Ruins nestled in the tranquil, historic gardens of Windsor’s royal Frogmore Estate.
Bachelor's Acre
0.8 km
Royal tribute meets family fun in Windsor's cherished town-centre park.
Holy Trinity Garrison Church
0.8 km
A historic Anglican church in Windsor blending military heritage with community spirit and stunning stained glass artistry.
Frogmore House and Gardens
0.8 km
An intimate royal retreat where centuries of monarchy found solace in elegant gardens and private chambers.
Soldier's Statue
0.8 km
Explore Windsor's Soldier's Statue, a historic landmark honoring the courage of soldiers amidst the beauty of the city.
Ancient well
0.8 km
Discover Windsor’s Ancient Well: a tranquil historic landmark nestled near the royal castle, rich with centuries of local heritage and timeless charm.
Windsor Parish Church of St John the Baptist
0.9 km
Historic Gothic Revival church in Windsor with rich heritage, artistic treasures, and a welcoming spiritual community near Windsor Castle.
Historical Windsor
0.9 km
Step into Windsor’s rich past and vibrant present on historic Peascod Street, where royal heritage meets charming shopping.
Windsor Guildhall
0.9 km
Historic 17th-century Guildhall in Windsor offering regal wedding ceremonies with royal portraits and elegant event spaces for up to 100 guests.
Essential places to dine
Misugo Japanese Windsor
0.6 km
Authentic Japanese flavors and fresh sushi crafted with passion in a warm, family-run setting in Windsor.
Best Meze Grill
0.6 km
Experience the rich, authentic flavors of Turkish meze and grilled specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Windsor.
Windsor Grill
0.6 km
Experience expertly grilled British and European classics in a relaxed, elegant setting at Windsor Grill in the heart of Windsor.
Duck & Dim Sum Chinese Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Chinese flavors with aromatic crispy duck and delicate dim sum in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant dining scene.
Al Fassia Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Windsor at Al Fassia Restaurant.
À la Russe
0.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and elegant dining just steps from Windsor Castle at À la Russe, a cherished culinary gem on High Street.
Meimo
0.8 km
Authentic Moroccan warmth and flavours in the heart of Windsor, where family hospitality meets culinary tradition.
Electric Garden
0.8 km
A vibrant and eclectic dining spot in Windsor’s heart, blending creative cuisine with a lively, casual atmosphere.
Meat At The Parish
0.8 km
A vibrant steakhouse and cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly dry-aged steaks and a cozy, contemporary atmosphere near Windsor Castle.
Enzo's Windsor
0.8 km
A family-run Italian gem in Windsor serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and hearty pasta in a warm, inviting setting.
Long Walk Grill
0.8 km
Cozy Mediterranean dining with stone-baked pizzas and fresh seafood in the heart of historic Windsor’s High Street.
Park Bistro, Windsor
0.8 km
Experience expertly grilled Scottish steaks and warm hospitality in the heart of Windsor’s lively Peascod Street.
Eighteen
0.9 km
Elegant dining on Windsor’s High Street, blending classic charm with modern culinary excellence and warm hospitality.
Leaf At The Castle
0.9 km
Elegant British dining with a botanical touch, steps from Windsor Castle, featuring seasonal menus and a celebrated Royal afternoon tea.
Maison Meejana
0.9 km
Discover authentic Lebanese cuisine in a cozy Windsor setting, blending traditional flavors with modern hospitality near Windsor Castle.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Roz Clarke
0.8 km
Discover chic elegance and personalized style at Roz Clarke, Windsor’s premier boutique for women’s fashion, accessories, and expert styling advice.
Vinegar Hill
0.8 km
A curated lifestyle shop in Windsor offering stylish homewares, gifts, and fashion in a warm, boutique setting.
Nomad Concept Store
0.8 km
A vibrant concept store and art studio in Windsor, blending vintage fashion, handmade crafts, and spiritual curiosities in a colorful, bohemian space.
Ryad Momo
0.8 km
Discover Moroccan elegance and unique handcrafted gifts at Ryad Momo, Windsor’s charming boutique for exquisite homeware and candles.
Cancer Research UK
0.9 km
Secondhand treasures with purpose—sustainable shopping that funds life-saving cancer research.
Nea Boutique
0.9 km
Discover unique, stylish women's fashion and accessories at Nea Boutique, a charming Windsor boutique with a curated collection and personal service.
Oxfam
0.9 km
Discover unique second-hand treasures and support global causes in Windsor’s historic Oxfam charity shop near Windsor Castle.
The Works
0.9 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Windsor’s vibrant shopping district.
Warwicks
0.9 km
A premier men's clothing store nestled in Windsor’s historic Peascod Street, blending classic style with modern shopping charm.
Temptation Gifts
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and over 1,000 greeting cards in Windsor’s welcoming and ever-changing Temptation Gifts store on Peascod Street.
Crew Clothing
0.9 km
Classic British smart casual wear in the heart of historic Windsor, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship.
Next
0.9 km
Next Windsor offers stylish, quality fashion and accessories for all ages in a convenient and welcoming shopping environment.
huttons
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Huttons, a charming family-run independent store in the heart of historic Windsor.
Great British Gifts
0.9 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and artisan treasures just steps from Windsor Castle at Great British Gifts.
Marks and Spencer
0.9 km
A reliable Marks & Spencer department store in central Windsor, offering fashion, homeware and a well-stocked food hall on Peascod Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Corner House
0.7 km
A lively two-floor pub and sports bar in Windsor, offering great drinks, live sports on HD screens, and versatile event spaces.
The Acre
0.7 km
A lively Windsor bar with engaging karaoke, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Two Brewers
0.7 km
Historic 18th-century pub near Windsor Castle offering classic British ales, cozy ambiance, and a charming floral exterior.
No5 St Leonards Road
0.8 km
Elegant cocktails, sparkling chandeliers, and a welcoming atmosphere combine at No5 St Leonards Road, Windsor’s premier cocktail bar.
The Sinner Bar
0.8 km
A stylish cocktail bar in Windsor offering vibrant nightlife, expertly crafted drinks, and an intimate, seductive atmosphere.
The Queen Victoria
0.8 km
Step into The Queen Victoria for an authentic 18th-century English pub experience with hearty food, real ales, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere in Windsor.
The Piper Art Bar
0.9 km
Discover a vibrant Scottish-themed bar and contemporary art space in the heart of Windsor, offering an extensive whisky selection and eclectic ambiance.
The Prince Harry
0.9 km
Historic pub steps from Windsor Castle, serving traditional British fare and real ales in a charming, centuries-old setting.
The Shambles
0.9 km
Discover Windsor’s award-winning bar housed in a charmingly tilted historic building, famed for creative cocktails and warm hospitality.
The Cobbles
0.9 km
Cozy cocktail bar in a historic 17th-century building opposite Windsor Castle, blending heritage charm with exceptional drinks and warm service.
The Carpenters Arms
0.9 km
Historic pub in Windsor serving classic British fare and cask ales in a welcoming, artisan-inspired setting near Windsor Castle.
The Horse & Groom
1.0 km
Historic and welcoming English pub opposite Windsor Castle, offering hearty food, local ales, and cosy accommodation in the heart of Windsor.
All Bar One Windsor
1.1 km
A stylish wine bar near Windsor Castle offering vibrant vibes, crafted cocktails, and shared plates in a historic yet modern setting.
Upstairs Windsor
1.1 km
A refined cocktail bar in Windsor offering expertly crafted drinks and a grown-up atmosphere for stylish weekend nights.
The King & Castle - JD Wetherspoon
1.1 km
A spacious, friendly JD Wetherspoon pub in Windsor offering affordable drinks and classic British fare near the historic Windsor Castle.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pink Gentleman's Club.
0.9 km
Sophisticated adult entertainment with exclusive VIP rooms and topless pole shows in the heart of Windsor’s nightlife scene.
Labyrinth Nightclub Windsor
1.0 km
Experience Windsor’s vibrant nightlife with live DJs, multiple bars, and an electrifying atmosphere at Labyrinth Nightclub.
The Scotch
1.0 km
Windsor’s iconic Victorian arch nightclub blending historic charm with eclectic music and circus-themed nightlife.
The Boom
1.0 km
Historic arches meet vibrant beats at The Boom, Windsor’s energetic nightclub and bar for unforgettable nights.
The Binfield Club
13.7 km
Historic social club in Binfield offering vibrant nightlife, live music, sports, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Winkers Nightclub
15.6 km
A lively, budget-friendly nightclub in Gerrards Cross offering energetic music and a casual local vibe for weekend partygoers.
Diligence
17.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Diligence, High Wycombe’s energetic nightclub on London Road.
Trilogy Nightclub High Wycombe
19.9 km
A lively multi-room nightclub in High Wycombe offering dynamic music, vibrant crowds, and late-night fun on Paul’s Row.
The Venue, Bucks
20.0 km
Experience High Wycombe’s vibrant nightlife at The Venue, Bucks – a lively nightclub with great music, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere.
3sixty
23.7 km
Experience vibrant student nightlife and live events at 3sixty, the University of Reading’s premier nightclub and entertainment venue.
Popworld Watford
24.9 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
Canvas Bar & Nightclub
24.9 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Q Club
25.4 km
Experience Reading’s energetic nightlife at Q Club, a lively nightclub and bar offering music, drinks, and late-night fun on Friar Street.
Gun Street Garden
25.6 km
Experience Reading’s vibrant nightlife in an urban jungle-themed club with diverse music, rooftop bar, and VIP lounges.
Reading Lola Lo
25.6 km
Experience Reading’s premier tiki-themed nightclub with vibrant cocktails, lively music, and a unique Polynesian atmosphere on Friar Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
