Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of the Queen attracts tourists from all over the world since it is the largest and oldest resided castle on the planet. The castle was founded by the 11th century Conqueror William, and 39 monarchs have lived within its walls for 10 centuries.
This extremely popular attraction attracts 1.5 million visitors every year with crowds and queues can be very long, especially during summer. Visit the castle in winter for avoiding long queues.
You need a ticket to gain entry inside the castle area, which gives access to all the amazing attractions within its walls. Purchase the tickets in advance so that you don’t have to wait in line and can walk in directly.
Best site to buy online tickets for Windsor Castle
If you wish to pre-book or buy Windsor tickets directly for the same-day visit to Windsor Castle, visit StonehengeVisit, the complete visitor’s guide. The site offers Windsor Castle tickets at discounted rates starting from £26.50pp.
Visitors will get to know everything about visiting Stonehenge and its nearby areas and ensure to have the best experience possible. Visit the site to avail a full-day tour of Windsor Castle and Stonehenge.
When to visit Windsor Castle?
The ideal time to visit Windsor Castle during peak season is the weekdays and after or during the 11:00 a.m. which is the time for changing the guards. Weekends and early in the morning may be very crowded at Windsor Castle.
Arrive after 11 am when it is less crowded so that you have enough time to explore the castle ground before its closing time at 4:14 pm.
Guild Hall or Castle Approach Road is the best place to watch the band marching from the town.
How much time to spend at Windsor Castle?
Spend at least 2.5 to 3 hours exploring Windsor Castle. There are stunning 1000 rooms in the Castle which of course, not all of them can be visited. Purchase an audio tour to make the most of your visit as it will help you to see Windsor Castle at its best.
The audio tour, which is available for free with admission, guides you through the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and the castle grounds while providing commentary on a thousand-year history.
The Prince of Wales gives an introduction followed by the staff of the royal homes discussing their duties, responsibilities, and preparations for royal engagements.
Main attractions inside the castle
You cannot miss visiting the main attractions of the Castle.
- The George Chapel: a stunning Gothic cathedral with stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and royal banners.
- The State Apartments: it is a magnificent reception space where guests of the Crown are welcomed and is reached through the Inner Hall with the royal collection of art and armour.
- Queen’s Mary Doll House: a 1:12 size recreation of the furnishings from the aristocratic mansion from the 1920s with amazing replicas of books and wine bottles.
A visit to Windsor Castle can be an amazing trip from London. There are plenty of things to do in Windsor for which it would be best to either spend a weekend or a mini vacation during weekdays.