Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is one of the most famous and oldest royal residences in the world. It is located in Windsor, Berkshire, in the United Kingdom. It was founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and has been home to 40 monarchs since then. It is open to visitors throughout the year and offers a variety of attractions and activities.

If you want to visit Windsor Castle, here are some useful information and tips:

• Ticket prices: Adult £28.00, Young Person (18-24) £18.00, Child (5-17) £15.50, Disabled £15.50, Under 5 Free. You can book tickets online or buy them on the day at the ticket office.
• Opening hours: The castle is open from 10:00 to 17:15 (March to October) or 16:15 (November to February). The last admission is one hour before closing time. The castle is closed on some dates due to official events, so check the website before you visit.
• How to get there: Windsor Castle is easily accessible by car, train, bus or coach. There are several car parks nearby, but they can get busy during peak times. The nearest train stations are Windsor & Eton Central and Windsor & Eton Riverside, both within walking distance of the castle. There are also frequent buses and coaches from London and other towns.
• What to see: There are many things to see and do at Windsor Castle, such as:
  • The State Apartments: These are the ceremonial rooms where the Queen and her guests receive visitors and hold events. They are decorated with paintings, furniture, sculptures and other treasures from the Royal Collection.
  • The Semi-State Rooms: These are the private rooms of George IV, which are only open from September to March. They are richly furnished and display some of the finest works of art in the castle.
  • Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: This is a miniature replica of a royal palace, built for Queen Mary in the 1920s. It has working lights, plumbing, lifts and even a wine cellar.
  • St George’s Chapel: This is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, the oldest order of chivalry in the world. It is also the burial place of 10 kings, including Henry VIII and Charles I, as well as other members of the royal family.
  • The Moat Room: This is a new exhibition that tells the story of the castle’s origins and evolution over 1,000 years. It features models, maps, paintings and archaeological finds.
  • Changing the Guard: This is a ceremonial event that takes place every day at 11:00 (April to July) or on alternate days (August to March), weather permitting. It involves a procession of guards and bands from Victoria Barracks to the castle, where they exchange duties with the old guard.
  • Treasures of the Castle: This is a guided tour that highlights some of the most remarkable and valuable objects in the castle, such as paintings by Rembrandt and Van Dyck, Fabergé eggs, Chinese porcelain and more.
• Tours: There are several options for guided tours at Windsor Castle, such as:
  • Multimedia guide: This is a free device that provides audio commentary and images for different areas of the castle. It is available in 12 languages and has a special version for children.
  • Guided tour: This is a one-hour tour led by an expert guide who will share stories and insights about the history and architecture of the castle. It costs £5 per person and can be booked online or at the ticket office.
  • Private tour: This is a bespoke tour that can be tailored to your interests and preferences. It can include areas that are not normally open to the public, such as the Royal Library or the Royal Kitchens. It costs £75 per person and can be booked online or by phone.
• Prohibitions: There are some rules and restrictions that you need to follow when visiting Windsor Castle, such as:
  • No photography or filming inside the State Apartments or St George’s Chapel.
  • No large bags or backpacks inside the castle. You can leave them at the left luggage facility near the ticket office for a small fee.
  • No eating or drinking inside the castle. You can use the Undercroft Café or bring your own picnic to enjoy in designated areas outside.
  • No smoking anywhere on the castle grounds.
  • No pets except guide dogs or assistance dogs.

Windsor Castle is a fascinating place that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, art, architecture or royalty, you will find plenty to enjoy and discover at this magnificent site.