Explore the world's oldest and largest inhabited castle with guided tours delving into centuries of British royal history and traditions.
Step into the heart of British monarchy with Windsor Castle and Royal Tours in Windsor & Eton. This category of tours offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and grandeur of Windsor Castle, a royal residence for over 900 years. More than just a landmark, it's a living piece of history, continuously occupied and a frequent home to the Royal Family. These guided experiences peel back the layers of time, revealing stories of kings, queens, and pivotal moments that shaped not only Britain but the world. From the magnificent State Apartments, adorned with priceless art and furnishings, to St. George's Chapel, the final resting place of ten monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II, the castle is a treasure trove of history and architectural marvels. Beyond the castle walls, many tours extend to the charming town of Windsor and its historic neighbor, Eton. Imagine strolling along the Long Walk, the iconic avenue leading to the castle, or exploring the picturesque streets of Eton, home to the prestigious Eton College. The tours are designed to provide context and narrative, bringing to life the royal ceremonies, the political intrigue, and the daily lives of those who have called this majestic estate home. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a royal follower, or simply seeking an enriching day out, these tours offer a comprehensive and engaging exploration of one of the UK's most significant historical sites. Discover the stories, the architecture, and the enduring legacy of the British Crown.
Gain insights into over 900 years of royal history, from Norman conquest to modern-day events, directly from knowledgeable guides.
Explore parts of the world's oldest and largest inhabited castle, including the magnificent State Apartments and the historic St. George's Chapel.
Tours provide the narrative and historical context that transforms a visit into a deep understanding of the monarchy's legacy.
Easily accessible from London, making it an ideal day trip destination for international and domestic travelers alike.
Choose from a variety of tours, from in-depth castle explorations to combined experiences including Windsor town and Eton.
Capture stunning views of the castle, the Long Walk, and the charming riverside scenery, enhanced by your guide's knowledge of the best vantage points.
These comprehensive tours focus exclusively on Windsor Castle. They typically cover the State Apartments, Queen Mary's Dolls' House, and St. George's Chapel, offering detailed historical commentary.
Combine a visit to Windsor Castle with an exploration of the surrounding areas. These tours often include a guided walk through Windsor town, along the Long Walk, and across to Eton, showcasing historical landmarks and offering panoramic views.
Perfect for those based in London, these tours bundle transportation with guided visits to Windsor Castle and sometimes other nearby attractions like Stonehenge or Bath. They offer a hassle-free way to experience the royal site.
For independent exploration, these options provide skip-the-line access to Windsor Castle along with an audio guide or a dedicated app. This allows visitors to explore at their own pace while still receiving informative commentary.
Tours typically range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on whether they focus solely on the castle or include surrounding areas and transportation.
Windsor is an outdoor location, so tours can be affected by weather. Be prepared for all conditions; comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Group sizes vary greatly, from small, intimate tours of under 10 people to larger coach tours. Some options offer private tours for a more personalized experience.
Generally includes guided commentary and historical insights. Entrance to Windsor Castle is usually included in dedicated castle tours and combined packages, but always check the specific tour details.
Meeting points are typically at or near Windsor Castle, or designated pick-up locations in Windsor town or London for day trips. Specific details will be provided upon booking.
Prices start from around $30 for basic entry with audio guides and can range up to $150 or more for private tours or comprehensive day trips from London.
Book your tickets and tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
Check the official Windsor Castle website for any closures or special events that might affect access or tour availability.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot, often on uneven surfaces.
Consider the weather forecast and dress in layers. An umbrella or waterproof jacket is often a wise inclusion.
If your tour doesn't include castle entry, factor in the cost and purchase tickets separately. The castle itself is a significant part of the experience.
Arrive at your meeting point at least 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth start.
Make time to explore the charming streets of Windsor town and perhaps enjoy a riverside walk before or after your tour.
Ask your guide questions! They are a wealth of knowledge and can offer unique perspectives on the castle's history and its inhabitants.
A: It's highly recommended to book at least a few weeks in advance, especially if you're planning to visit during school holidays or on weekends. This helps ensure you get your preferred date and time, and that tickets for popular tours are available.
A: Yes, you can. Many tours offer skip-the-line entry and provide an audio guide or app, allowing you to explore at your own pace. However, a guided tour can offer richer historical context and storytelling.
A: Morning visits tend to be less crowded. If you're interested in seeing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, check the schedule in advance as it doesn't happen daily and timings can vary.
A: Yes, many tours are family-friendly. The history and grandeur of the castle can be fascinating for children, and some tours might offer specific child-oriented content or materials.
A: Most comprehensive tours include entry to Windsor Castle, access to the State Apartments, and a visit to St. George's Chapel. Some may also include guided walks around the town or transportation from London. Always check the specific tour details.
A: You can take a train from London Paddington or Waterloo station, which takes approximately 30-60 minutes. Many day tours from London also include coach transportation directly to Windsor.
A: Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be on your feet a lot. Dress in layers, as the weather can change. Depending on the season, you might also need a waterproof jacket or an umbrella.
Discover centuries of royal history at Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world.
Experience the charm of Eton's historic college and its picturesque riverside setting, just across the Thames.
Enjoy unique shopping and dining experiences with stunning views of the iconic Windsor Castle.
Immerse yourself in British heritage, from royal residences to the fascinating stories of Eton College.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Thames Path, offering breathtaking vistas of Windsor & Eton.
Uncover a perfect blend of royal grandeur and quaint market town atmosphere in this Thames-side gem.
The United Kingdom experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters, with rainfall distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Snowfall is more common in the winter months, especially in higher elevations, and fog can be frequent, particularly in coastal areas.
May and June often offer the best balance of pleasant temperatures, longer daylight hours, and lower rainfall, making them ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes and cities.
The peak tourist season typically runs from July to August, coinciding with school holidays. During this time, expect warmer weather, but also larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and attractions.
From November to March, the UK experiences its off-season. While the weather can be cold and wet, you can enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and festive Christmas markets and events.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Uncover centuries of royal heritage and stunning architecture with guided walks through Windsor and Eton.
Explore centuries of British history and iconic royal landmarks with curated tours of Windsor Castle and charming Eton.
Step into centuries of tradition and academic excellence with guided walks around the iconic Eton College and historic Windsor.
Discover Windsor & Eton's historic pubs and culinary delights on guided food and drink tours.
Discover regal history and picturesque landscapes from the water on a captivating Thames river cruise departing from Windsor & Eton.
Getting around Windsor & Eton is wonderfully straightforward. The towns are very walkable, with the main attractions of Windsor Castle and Eton College easily accessible on foot. For longer distances or if you prefer, local buses operate frequently. Taxis are readily available, and cycling is a pleasant option, especially along the Thames Path. Parking can be limited and expensive in the town centers, so consider public transport or park-and-ride options if arriving by car. The train stations in Windsor offer excellent connections, making it easy to explore further afield.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Windsor & Eton adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
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