Windsor Castle + Windsor Berkshire in 1 Day

Windsor Castle and Windsor in 1 day-what to see, do and experience

A trip to the UK or London is never complete without a trip to Windsor, the home of the historic Windsor Castle. Windsor Castle has been home to the British Royal family for over a thousand years and is one of the most visited attraction in UK. Windsor Castle and Frogmore House attracted 1.65 million paid visitors in 2018-2019, making it the most popular of the Royal Estates.

To make the best of Windsor Castle and Windsor in 1 day will require some prior planning. You may also need to have some knowledge of the highlights at the Castle which should not be missed especially if your visit here is just for the one time.

In this article, you shall find some of the highlights of this iconic and historic castle and the town of Windsor. Practical information is included to support your planning.



When planning your visit to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, you may be asking: How long to visit the Royal Observatory London? I’d suggest, ideally, that you set aside half a day, anything between 3.5-4 hours to fully experience its rich offerings, which includes a blend of astronomical heritage and maritime history.

Situated at SE10 8XJ on Greenwich Hill, within the heart of Greenwich Park, this iconic institution was commissioned by King Charles II in 1675. Now nearly 350 years old, it is not only a pivotal site for timekeeping and navigation but also forms a part of the Royal Museums Greenwich. This collective heritage includes the National Maritime Museum, the Queen’s House, and the historic ship Cutty Sark.

The Royal Observatory stands as one of London’s most famous landmarks, epitomizing scientific achievement and famously known as the location of the Prime Meridian Line. The observatory has played a crucial role in the advancement of navigation and astronomy. It is here that Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) was defined, influencing how the world measures time and geographical positioning to this day.

Time, the most precious commodity in life, is the only commodity we truly own, as noted by Baltasar Gracián who once said, “All that really belongs to us is time; even he who has nothing else has that.” A visit to the Royal Observatory brings these words to life and takes me back to my early days as a mum, teaching my little ones about where time measurement started.

Beyond personal memories, the Royal Observatory in Greenwich Park is a welcoming attraction for both the young and the old any day of the week. During your visit, you are treated to a remarkable journey through the history of astronomy and navigation, offering numerous activities that capture your attention from the moment you arrive. At the gates, you’ll find the renowned Shepherd Clock, and once inside, there are further highlights that you simply must explore.

As you explore the intersections of time and space at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll discover why the Royal Observatory is worth the time, no matter how long it takes to visit as it is not just a must-visit for history enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in the marvels of our universe.

Disclosure

Timeless Travel Steps is supported by our readers. If you purchase through an affiliate link on my site, at no cost to you, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. Additionally, Timeless Travel Steps is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Please read our Disclosure for further information.

how long do you need to visit the Royal Observatory Greenwich London
Our BEST Pick
Flamsteed House and the Red Ball at the Royal Observatory

The Royal Observatory Admission Ticket

BOOK A stand-alone Entry Ticket to the Royal Observatory Greenwich ONLY.

BOOK the Money Saver; Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass for Admission to The Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark.

Getting to the Royal Observatory Greenwich London

Directions to Greenwich Park

The Royal Observatory is located within the beautiful Greenwich Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks. To reach Greenwich Park and the Royal Observatory, you can enter through any of the park’s gates, with the Blackheath Gate on Charlton Way being a popular choice due to its proximity to the observatory. For those using a GPS, the postcode for your destination is SE10 8XJ.

Tips on Public Transport and Parking Options

Public Transport: Greenwich is well-serviced by public transport. You can take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) to Cutty Sark station, which is a scenic 15-minute walk from the park. Alternatively, Greenwich and Maze Hill rail stations are both within walking distance of the park, offering connections to central London and surrounding areas.

Several bus routes also stop near Greenwich Park, including numbers 53, 54, 202, and 380.

Parking: Parking in Greenwich can be challenging, especially on weekends. There are limited paid parking spaces available within Greenwich Park, accessible via Blackheath Gate. Nearby, you can also find pay-and-display options along Greenwich High Road.

For a hassle-free visit, consider arriving early or using public transport, which is both convenient and eco-friendly.

view of path leading to the Royal Observatory and Planetarium

PRO TIP: I’d suggest taking the DLR to Cutty Sark Station as it is a quick 20-minute journey from central London. The scenic walk to the Royal Observatory takes you through part of Greenwich Village, and other attractions in Greenwich which you may want to explore also.

How Long to Visit at the Royal Observatory Greenwich?: Key Attractions + Recommended Time for Each

The Prime Meridian Line: What is the Prime Meridian Line?

The Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory Greenwich is the globally recognized line of longitude from which all other lines of longitude are measured and time zones are calculated. This line, marked by a striking stainless steel strip, represents the world’s zero-degree longitude. Established in 1851 by Sir George Airy, the Greenwich Meridian was chosen as the official Prime Meridian of the world in 1884, making Greenwich the universal time standard known as Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

How long to visit the Prime Meridian area at Royal Observatory London?: Estimated duration: 15-20 minutes

the Meridian Line showing cities and distance from the Line
the Prime Meridian Line

TIP: Experience straddling both the eastern and western hemispheres simultaneously. This moment, captured with a photo, is not just a fun opportunity but a profound reminder of how Greenwich shapes the way the world views time and space.

The Shepherd Clock: The historical significance of the Shepherd Clock

The Shepherd Gate Clock, mounted on the wall outside the Observatory gate, is one of the world’s first public displays of Greenwich Mean Time. Installed in 1852 and linked directly to the Royal Observatory’s time ball, the clock was critical in providing accurate time to sailors on the Thames and navigators far and wide. This innovation by Charles Shepherd revolutionized how time was synchronized and disseminated, playing a crucial role in managing time across the UK’s vast railway network and influencing global timekeeping practices. Be camera ready, as this is one of the most Instagrammable spots at the Royal Observatory Greenwich.

How long to visit the Shepherd Clock area and Photos?: Estimated duration: 10-15 minutes

the shepherd clock at the entrance to Royal Observatory London
Shepherd Clock

PRO TIP: If you are visiting the Royal Observatory during peak tourist season, be sure to allocate additional time if you want a photo next to the Shepherd Clock — there’s usually a queue as almost everyone wants to take a photo next to this iconic timepiece.

Flamsteed House at the Royal Observatory

Flamsteed House at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich holds a pivotal place in the history of navigation and astronomy. Originally commissioned by King Charles II in the 1670s, the observatory was established to enhance maritime navigation for seamen and traders. Recognizing the need for a sophisticated navigation system, King Charles enlisted Sir Christopher Wren, a distinguished architect, to design what is now known as Flamsteed House.

Flamsteed House is not only a functional scientific facility but also an architectural marvel. Its design reflects the early scientific spirit of the Age of Enlightenment, marrying both utility and aesthetic appeal. Within this premier historical and educational site, Flamsteed House is home to Time and Longitude Galleries as well as an educational hub, inspiring deep engagement with astronomy, providing insight into the scientific challenges and solutions that have profoundly shaped our understanding of the world.

view of Flamsteed House, the courtyard, and the Shepherd Clock with people observing the Time Ball drop
view of Flamsteed House, the courtyard, and the Shepherd Clock with people observing the Time Ball drop

Time and Longitude Galleries at Flamsteed House, Royal Observatory, London

Within Flamsteed House, you can explore the Time and Longitude Galleries. These galleries are notable for housing the revolutionary “sea clocks” created by John Harrison, including his celebrated H4 chronometer. Harrison’s innovations were vital in solving the problem of determining longitude at sea, a major challenge of the 18th century that engaged the minds of numerous mathematicians and clockmakers.

In addition to Harrison’s chronometers, the galleries also display modern navigational tools, such as the GPS receiver used by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston during his record-breaking solo circumnavigation of the globe in 1994.

These galleries provide a fascinating insight into the historical efforts and scientific advancements that underpinned maritime exploration.

How long to visit the Time and Longitude Galleries and Flamsteed House, Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 45 minutes to an hour.

exhibits at the museum
ehibits at Time and Longitude Galleries

Witness the Time Ball at Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London

Another must-see at Flamsteed House is the operation of the bright red Time Ball, a historic feature that has been reliably signaling the time since 1833. Positioned atop Flamsteed House, this iconic ball originally served a vital role in distributing time to ships on the Thames River and to many Londoners.

Each day, the time ball follows a precise routine: at 12:55, it rises halfway up its mast; at 12:58, it ascends fully to the top; and at precisely 13:00, it dramatically drops. This visible signal allowed ship captains to accurately set their chronometers before setting sail, ensuring precise timekeeping critical for navigation. Witnessing this daily event offers a tangible link to the maritime history that shaped Greenwich and its global importance.

How long to visit the Time Ball drop at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 15 minutes.

images of the Time Ball drop showing the sequence of the drop
sequence in the Time Ball drop

PRO TIP: Try and arrive a little earlier than 12:55 PM to secure a spot for a good view of the Time Ball drop, where you could also capture the perfect photo or video.

The Peter Harrison Planetarium

Situated next to the Royal Observatory, the Peter Harrison Planetarium offers a captivating gateway to the stars, which requires a stand-alone experience ticket, distinct from the admission ticket to the Royal Observatory. This modern marvel uses cutting-edge technology to bring the universe to life through a variety of immersive shows that cater to both avid astronomers and curious novices.

This unique experience takes you on a visual journey across the cosmos, exploring distant galaxies, witnessing the birth of stars, and delving into the mysteries of black holes.

Equipped with one of the most advanced digital laser projectors, the planetarium provides a stunningly crisp and vibrant visual experience that fills the dome with the wonders of the universe. The state-of-the-art sound system enhances the immersive experience, wrapping audiences in a cosmic symphony of sights and sounds.

BOOK Tickets here.

side view of the Peter Harrison Planetarium London
side view of the Peter Harrison Planetarium London

How long to visit the Peter Harrison Planetarium experience at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 30-40 minutes.

The View from the Royal Observatory Greenwich

One of the most breathtaking aspects of a visit to the Royal Observatory Greenwich is “The View.”

Perched atop Greenwich Hill, the Observatory offers a panoramic vista across London. From this vantage point, or nearby point from General James Wolfe’s statue, you can gaze out over the sprawling cityscape that stretches towards the horizon, encompassing iconic landmarks such as the Thames River, the modern skyscrapers of Canary Wharf, and the historical silhouette of the maritime Greenwich.

This picturesque view is not only a feast for the eyes but also a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle against the twilight sky. Additionally, “The View” provides a unique geographical context to Greenwich’s maritime history, highlighting its strategic location overlooking the river that has been so vital to London’s development.

How long should you visit the panoramic experience at Royal Observatory, London?: Estimated duration: 15 minutes or as long as you like.

the incredible View from the vantage point at General James Wolfe's statue

Educational Activities at The Royal Observatory Greenwich, London

The Royal Observatory is committed to making astronomy accessible and engaging for all ages. It offers a wide range of educational programs and interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and discovery. These include family-friendly workshops, telescope viewings, and engaging talks that bring the wonders of the universe closer to earth.

For younger visitors, the Observatory provides specially designed activities that spark curiosity and inspire a love of science. These include interactive puzzles, games, and storytelling sessions that make learning about space fun and memorable.

Add to Your Visit to the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, London

Greenwich Park and Surrounding Attractions: Your visit to the Royal Observatory also positions you perfectly to explore other nearby attractions. The iconic Cutty Sark, the world’s sole surviving tea clipper, the World’s largest National Maritime Museum (free entry) and the elegant Queen’s House (free entry), renowned for its fine architecture and art collections, are all within walking distance.

Combining Your Visit with a Walk Through Greenwich Park: Greenwich Park, one of London’s eight Royal Parks, offers more than just a beautiful setting. It is a place where history, nature, and leisure converge. After visiting the Observatory, take a leisurely stroll through the park to enjoy its tranquil landscapes, the rose garden, and stunning views of the London skyline. This is the perfect way to relax, have a picnic, and reflect on the rich history you’ve just encountered.

Estimated Duration: 1-2 hours

READ the Complete Guide to Off-Beat, Free, and Ticketed Things to do in Greenwich, London.

beautiful sunny autumn day, clear skies, autumn leaves speckled on the ground in Greenwich park London
Greenwich Park

Planning Your Visit

Best Times to Visit and How to Avoid the Crowds

Weekdays and Early Mornings: The Royal Observatory Greenwich is a popular attraction throughout the year. To make the most of your visit, consider coming on weekdays or during the morning hours right after opening. The quieter times typically offer a more intimate viewing of the exhibits and a better interaction with the features without the pressure of large crowds.

Spring and autumn months generally see fewer visitors compared to the bustling summer season.

The Royal Observatory Tickets and Hours

The observatory is typically open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours may vary during holiday periods or for special events.

Entry to the Royal Observatory grants access to the Meridian Courtyard, the historic Flamsteed House, and the Time and Longitude galleries. Discounts are available for children, students, and retirees. Family tickets offer additional savings for group visits.

To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing the Royal Museums Greenwich Day Pass. This pass not only simplifies your experience but also offers comprehensive access to Cutty Sark, enhancing your exploration of Greenwich’s rich maritime heritage. The Day Pass offers excellent value, allowing you to save more compared to purchasing stand-alone tickets.

Powered by GetYourGuide

Facilities and Accessibility

Facilities include accessible restrooms, baby changing facilities, and a café offering light refreshments with a stunning view of Greenwich and the Thames.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, and assistance dogs are welcome. Loaner wheelchairs are available at the ticket desk on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact their Official website for specific accessibility queries.

FAQs

What are two facts about the Royal Observatory?

The Royal Observatory is the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and the Prime Meridian Line, where the eastern and western hemispheres meet.
It houses the historic Shepherd Clock and the Peter Harrison Planetarium, which offers advanced astronomical education through state-of-the-art visual technology.

Why is it called the Royal Observatory?

It is called the Royal Observatory because it was commissioned by King Charles II in 1675, explicitly for the improvement of naval navigation and originally led by the first Astronomer Royal, John Flamsteed.

How old is the Royal Observatory?

The Royal Observatory was founded in 1675, making it over 340 years old.

Do you need to book Royal Observatory?

Yes, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and a smoother visit experience.

When was the Royal Observatory at Greenwich founded?

The Royal Observatory at Greenwich was founded in 1675 by King Charles II.

London, England 9 regions of England Timeless Travel Steps

BEST Tips for Your London Visit

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES
BUY the London Pass to Access 90+ Attractions for one price; Read > 7 Key Benefits of the London Pass.
BOOK Tower of London Visit; Read > 7 Best Ways to Visit the Tower of London. + Complete Guide to the Tower of London (so you don’t miss anything!)

BOOK St Paul’s Cathedral Visit; Read > 5 Rewarding Ways to Experience St Paul’s Cathedral + Why St Paul’s Cathedral should be Visited.

JOIN English Heritage Membership at a DISCOUNT; Read: English Heritage Membership Benefits (Complete Guide to How You can Save Money on Your Visits to 400+ Heritage Sites).
Overseas Travellers save a ton with the OVP; Read > English Heritage Overseas Visitors’ Pass;

POPULAR WITH OUR READERS
HomeAwayFromHome Stays:
Plum Guide;
Vrbo;

I use:
booking.com for all of my accommodation choices.
Viator or Get Your Guide for all of my activities bookings.
EasyJet Holidays for an all-in-one Package Holidays.
Expedia for USA Vacations or beyond Europe.
Discover Cars for car rentals.
TransPennine Trains for UK Train Travel and Trainline for both UK + Europe Trains. Go here to learn more about TransPennine Express and Trainline services.

in sum…

A visit to the Royal Observatory is not just a journey through the realms of time and space but also a voyage through history and innovation. From standing on the Prime Meridian Line to exploring the universe in the Peter Harrison Planetarium, the observatory offers a unique blend of education and inspiration.

To make the most of your experience, visit during off-peak season and purchase the money-saving Day Pass, which enhances both convenience and value. Dedicate a good part of a day, or at least half a day to fully immerse yourself in this fascinating site, where the past connects with the present and offers insights into how the science of yesterday shapes our today and tomorrow.

For more travel insights and tips, consider following Georgina from Timeless Travel Steps on BlueSky, Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Don’t miss out on her latest adventures and expert advice. Subscribe to stay updated and join a community of fellow travel enthusiasts eager to explore the world.

Pin It to Pinterest to Read Later

royal observatory London pin2 by timelesstravelsteps
London Royal Observatory pin 1 by timeless travel steps
how long to visit royal observatory London pin2 by timeless travel steps


Town of Windsor

The Town Square at Windsor
The Town Square at Windsor | Image: georgina_daniel

Windsor is a historic market town in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in Berkshire, Southeast England.

It has a lively atmosphere with great shopping and restaurants. It sits on River Thames, just west of London, and is under an hour’s journey from London. You will find Windsor at:

51°29’1.19″ N 0°36’9.59″ E

1 – day at Windsor Castle and Windsor

The day began with a train journey from London, Waterloo Station to Windsor & Eton Riverside. Exiting Windsor & Eton Riverside, it is a rather pleasant short walk up a slight hill. The street is lined with shops and the castle in sight. The Town Square to your right. A walk-up a further slight hill on your left will lead you to the ticket office. If you are here during the peak season, you will see a queue from the high-street. 

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, Berkshire: View from the Cambridge Gate
Windsor Castle, Berkshire: View from the Cambridge Gate | Image: georgina_daniel

Windsor Castle, built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, is the residence of the British Royal family for over 1000 years and is said to be the Queen’s favourite weekend getaway residence. In fact, if you see the Royal Standard flag flying from the Castle’s Round Tower, it indicates that the Queen is in residence.

Throughout history, Windsor Castle has been the home to thirty-nine monarchs and is the largest and the oldest occupied castle in the world. It has recently hosted the Royal wedding of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle on 19th May 2018. With so much history just on one site, Windsor makes a perfect destination for a special weekend break or a day trip. 

Can easily opt for a horse & carriage ride around Windsor.
Can easily opt for a horse & carriage ride around Windsor.

Windsor Castle grounds

Windsor Castle is the largest and the oldest occupied castle in the world. The Castle floor area is 13 acres (5 hectares) and has 1000 rooms. It comprises of two-quadrilateral-shaped building courts that are separated by the Round Tower. The two building courts are called Lower Ward and Upper Ward 

Round Tower, Windsor Castle

Round Tower_Windsor Castle_Berkshire
Round Tower, Windsor Castle, Berkshire

The Round Tower, as the name suggests, is a circular tower, massive and is built on an artificial mound. The court in the west of the Round Tower is called the “Lower Ward” and the court to the east is the “Upper Ward.”

The Round Tower, Windsor Castle built on artificial mound.
The Round Tower, Windsor Castle built on artificial mound | Image: georgina_daniel

Lower Ward Windsor Castle

Includes St George’s Chapel and the Albert Memorial Chapel, more on these below.

View from the Lower Ward-St George's Chapel on the left and the Round Tower on the right.
View from the Lower Ward-St George’s Chapel on the left and the Round Tower on the right.

Upper Ward, Windsor Castle

Includes the private apartments of the Queen and the private apartments for visitors. It also houses the Royal Library which contains collections by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and other famous artists.

The Inner Courtyard of the Upper Ward is home to private apartments in Windsor Castle.
The Inner Courtyard of the Upper Ward is home to private apartments in Windsor Castle | Image: georgina_daniel

The Northeast corner of the Upper Ward was destroyed by fire in November 1992 which included over 100 rooms and St George’s Hall. This area has been successfully restored and was completed in 1997.


Highlights at Windsor Castle Berkshire

When exploring Windsor Castle, it would be best to begin with the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Afterwards, you can explore the castle grounds by commencing your tour of the interior of the Castle. I would suggest that you start with the State Apartments, at Henry VIII’s North Terrace. You may encounter a queue here, but they get through very quickly. After the State Apartments, you can visit the beautiful St George’s Chapel and other parts of the Castle.

1 | Changing of the Guards Ceremony

The Changing of the Guard Ceremony is one of the highlights of visiting Windsor Castle. The ceremony takes place at 11:00 in the Lower Ward within the Castle grounds. The times can change and there may be occasions when the Ceremony may take place without music because of other duties and demands on the guards.  The guards return to their barracks at 11:25.

This is one highlight when visiting Windsor Castle that you should not miss. It is less crowded than the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, so it allows you a better view of the ceremony itself.

As it takes place at 11:00 prompt, it is best to plan your visit to arrive here before it begins so you get a good view.


2 | State Apartments and Semi-state Apartments

This part of the Castle is a grand building with opulent furnishings and intricate ceiling paintings. There are many art-work on the Royals and is home to the infamous Queen Mary’s Doll House.

** Queen Mary’s Doll House is sometimes closed to public viewing. Best to check before your visit.


3 | St George’s Chapel

The side entrance to St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.
The side entrance to St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle.

My favourite part of the Castle! Being here, in St George’s Chapel which is rich in history and in royal tradition is, at moments, simply overwhelming. It is unique in that it has a Perpendicular Gothic-style architecture. Construction of the Chapel began in 1475 by Edward IV and was completed by Heny VIII in 1528.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married in this Chapel in May 2018, which makes this Chapel even more special.

The architecture inside St George's Chapel_Windsor Castle_Berkshire
The architecture inside St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, Berkshire | Image: georgina_daniel

The interior of the Chapel itself is not huge but the architecture is absolutely breath-taking! You need to see to experience it. Cameras are not allowed in the Chapel but I quite simply had to steal a moment to capture this jaw-dropping wow sight for keeps.  


4 | The Inner Courtyard

The Inner Courtyard is home to the private apartments of the Queen and the private apartments of the Queen’s visitors. It is of Gothic architecture quadrangle with a green grass square in the middle.

The Inner Courtyard of the Upper Ward_Private Apartments of Windsor Castle, Berkshire (2)
The Inner Courtyard, Upper Ward_Private Apartments of Windsor Castle, Berkshire | Image: georgina_daniel

**Lunch

I spent quite a lot of time walking around the grounds at leisure and then lunch at the nearby pub. Afterwards, a walk up to the parks and down to Albert Road to view the Long Walk.  


5 | Home Park, Windsor

To the Eastern side of Windsor Castle is Home Park which was previously known as Little Park. It is approximately 655 acres (265 hectares) of parkland privately owned by the Crown Estate.

Frogmore House is in this Park and is only open twice a year, May and August. If you want to visit Frogmore House and its grounds, schedule your visit during these two months in the year. 


6 | Great Park, Windsor

Great Park is situated towards the South of Windsor Castle. It is approximately 5000 acres (2,020 hectares) which includes a deer park. Parts of this Park is open to the public.  


7 | The Long Walk

The Main Entrance to Windsor Castle, view from the Cambridge Gate, Windsor Castle, Berkshire.
The Main Entrance to Windsor Castle, view from the Cambridge Gate, Windsor Castle, Berkshire | Image: georgina_daniel

A short walk from the Castle, the Long Walk is crossed by A308 (Albert Road) to Old Windsor. This is what I wanted to see and capture the essence of the moment – The Long Walk!

The Long Walk is the straight path that links Windsor Castle with Snow Hill in Windsor Great Park, the foot of the statue of King George III (The Copper Horse). It is approximately 3 miles (5 kilometres) in length.

According to legend, King Henry VIII sat and waited at Snow Hill for news of execution of his second wife, Anne Boleyn.

The Long Walk, view from Cambridge Gate, Windsor Castle, Berkshire
The Long Walk, view from Cambridge Gate, Windsor Castle, Berkshire | Image: georgina_daniel

However, the path and the landscape as we know it today only came much later, an improvement to what was by King Charles II and Queen Anne. King Charles II had 1,652 Elm trees planted in double-rows the entire length of the route and Queen Anne had a road constructed down the centre of the tree lined landscape, so the coaches could head into the park comfortably.  


Winding-down the day

There is a quintessentially English pub at the quiet corner here by Park Street gates (which leads to the Long Walk and Cambridge Gate, entrance to Windsor Castle), a peaceful cul-de-sac where you can stop for a hearty pint! It’s called the Two Brewers, one of the smallest pubs in Windsor. Established in 1792 although the building dates back to 1709.  


On a final note…

Windsor Castle is uniquely beautiful, set in a lively town, with accommodation to suit every individual, couples or family, It has great shopping choices and restaurants to fulfil every palate a destination that will surely not disappoint.


Practical information

At Windsor Castle – What you need to know

  • There are guide maps available free at the counter. Just pick one. Given the vast area where one needs to walk, I found the map to be extremely helpful.
  • If you gift-aid your entrance ticket, you get a 12-month pass to return. Just ensure that you write your name and address and get it stamped at the designated area near the exit.
  • Commentary on the audio, for the most part is good and informative but sometimes too elaborate. It is also sometimes hard to navigate to the number of the room.
  • Give yourselves between 3 to 3.5 hours although the recommended hours are 2.5 to 3.

Facilities:

  1. Audio guides are available in all major languages.
  2. An induction loop on Audio tour is provided to partially impaired visitors.
  • Guide dogs are permitted
  1. Toilets for disabled visitors
  2. Areas are wheelchair accessible.

Tickets:

                                                         Regular (£)            During closure of State Apartments (£)

Adult                                                       21.20                                      11.70

Family [2 adults + 3 under 17s]         54.70                                       30.60

Senior/Student                                      19.30                                       10.60

Under 17/Disabled                               12.30                                         7.20

For up-to-date information on Windsor Castle, you can look-up their official website here: https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle


Getting to Windsor

From London by train:

Getting to Windsor Castle from London by train is the most convenient and cheaper mode of transport. 

There are 2 services:

  1. London Paddington to Windsor Central – services are provided by Great Western Railway, need to change at Slough for the shuttle service to Windsor & Eton Central. The shuttle service runs every 20 minutes and will have extra charges.

Return Adult Fare is £10.20

      2. London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside – services provided by South              Western Railway are 4 services per hour, at 20, 28, 50 and 58 minutes past the hour. Return Adult Fare is £10.50


If you are driving:

Parking:

  1. Castle car-park is a ‘Pay & Display’ car-park, so you will need coins. £14 for 5 hours;
  2. Car-park next to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station – £4 All-day if you arrive after 10:00. You can pay by phone            

Happy adventures!


What’s new


Pin me on Pinterest!

Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle and Windsor Berkshire in 1 Day first published at timelesstravelsteps.com

This post is regularly edited and updated. The last update was on September 25, 2022





Recommended

11 Comments

  1. I think Windsor Castle is worth a visit especially now if it reopens for the summer and it will not be too crowded.

  2. I must confess that even though I don’t live too far from Windsor castle I have never been inside to do the tour! It was good to read your description and it has made me think that I should do it once and for all!

  3. Thank you – it is worth making an early morning trip. The castle grounds are beautiful and afterwards, Windsor itself offers a lot more by way eateries and parks.

  4. Jan Banerjee says:

    Lovely post with exhaustive information on Windsor Castle visit. We drove up there last year from Dover on our return trip but found the queues too long and no parking space! I really want to see this castle. Will try again next year reaching there at the opening time! 🙂

  5. ASA | Marilyn says:

    A comprehensive read and memorable moments down memory lane. Having travelled by train on my first trip to London (many years again). Windsor Castle was high on my list of historic sights to see and the first castle in England that I saw, and greatly enjoyed the experience. Definitely well worth a visit.

  6. Thank you so much, Christy. Glad you enjoyed this post on Windsor Castle and found the tips useful. Look forward to your visit to the UK.

  7. Christy La Barthe says:

    Nice post Georgina! It has been a few years since we visited (certainly before the Royal Wedding) so we are due to go back especially with your lovely piece serving as a reminder. St. George’s Chapel was my favorite as well! Great tips.

  8. Thank you so much for your kind comments. I am glad to inspire another visit 🙂

  9. A very well written blog. Makes me want to go back to Winsor castle to go through all the stuffs that I missed.

  10. Great post with lots of information and tips for anyone planning a visit to Windsor Castle. We travelled by train and enjoyed a day trip exploring Windsor and the Castle. Well worth a visit.

  11. daisy051958 says:

    I loved Windsor Castle. The never ending beauty.

Comments are closed.