Back to London Attractions
How to Book the Perfect Royal Day Trip from London
Updated August 2025
Windsor Castle is not only the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world—it’s also a living expression of nearly a millennium of royal history. Just 25 miles from London, this architectural marvel houses opulent State Apartments, the solemn St George’s Chapel, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and vast precincts filled with centuries of story. Visiting Windsor feels like walking through living history—but smart planning ensures it doesn’t turn into a logistical headache.
At a Glance
How Early to Book:
2-3 weeks ahead of visit
Tickets Released:
4 months in advance
Best Times to Book:
Mid-morning to noon
Ticket price:
£31.00 for adults pre-booked online, £35.00 otherwise
Where to Book:
If Windsor is on your itinerary, book your ticket online in advance through the Royal Collection Trust’s website. Advance purchase costs approximately £31 for adults, £20 for ages 18–24, £15.50 for children and disabled visitors, while those under five enter free. Buying at the gate adds a few pounds per ticket—and time to your wait.
The castle is open Thursday through Monday, and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except during July to September when scheduled Tuesday openings are included. Check for short-notice state closures before you go. During peak summer, Wednesday closures are lifted on specific dates.
Opening hours vary by season:
March–October: 10:00 a.m.–5:15 p.m. (last entry 4:00 p.m.)
November–February: 10:00 a.m.–4:15 p.m. (last entry 3:00 p.m.)
Traveling from London typically takes about 50–60 minutes by train, either via Windsor & Eton Central (from Paddington, with one transfer) or Riverside (from Waterloo direct). Whether you choose public transport or join a guided coach tour, plan for a round-trip day of around 4.5–5 hours.
On arrival, expect airport-style security, so travel light and wear comfortable shoes. The circuit around the castle includes outdoor walking and uphill paths—allow about 2 to 3 hours to tour the State Apartments, St George's Chapel, the chapel’s changing of the guard, and Queen Mary’s Dolls' House. The semi-State Rooms are seasonally open (mostly winter), while St George’s Chapel welcomes visitors on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Many tourists miss the view beyond: stroll along The Long Walk for a postcard-perfect vista of the castle. If time permits, wander into Windsor town afterward—castle surroundings offer charming shops, cafés, and streets rich in character.
To maximize your Windsor Castle visit: book online ahead, travel light and wear comfy shoes, check the season’s opening and closure dates, and aim for a mid-morning to early afternoon visit. With an audio guide in hand and hours to explore, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve walked through centuries—without the stress.
Back to London Attractions
