A visit to Windsor Castle is a must-do experience for anyone interested in British history, architecture, or royal life.
As one of the King's official residences, this grand castle has played a significant role in British history for over 900 years. A Windsor Castle tour will allow you to explore this impressive castle and learn more about its fascinating past.
The castle, which is located in the town of Windsor, is one of the largest and oldest occupied castles in the world. It was originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, and since then, it has undergone numerous additions and renovations. Today, it is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and boasts an impressive collection of art, furniture, and other treasures.
The best way to experience Windsor Castle is by taking a guided tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take you through the castle's many rooms and explain its history and significance. Some of the highlights of the tour include the State Apartments, the St. George's Chapel, and the Queen Mary's Dolls' House.
Walking in the Footsteps of Royalty
On arrival you will clear a security check and receive an introduction to the castle. You will then walk to the north terrace to the State Apartments entrance. Here you can choose to tour the State Apartments or Queen Mary’s Dolls House.
The Dolls House is the largest in the world. Built with exquisite craftmanship between 1921 and 1924, it showcases the work of the most gifted artisans, craftsmen , artists and manufacturers in the world. A perfect miniature palace begins a tour around the real thing. It features working lights, running water, and even a fully stocked wine cellar!
The State Rooms are used by the Queen for hosting guests and can be visited during winter. The State Apartments are full of treasures from the Royal Collection and include a suit of armour worn by Henry VIII.
The State Apartments are some of the most impressive rooms in the castle. These rooms were originally designed for state occasions and are still used for official functions today. The apartments are adorned with priceless works of art, including paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck. The tour will allow you to explore the opulent interiors of these rooms and learn about their history and significance.
Take advantage of the precinct tour (included in the ticket price) where a warden will guide you and share those snippets of information you can’t get anywhere else, as you go along. These guided tours last 30 minutes and depart from the Courtyard.
A visit the Round Tower at Windsor Castle is an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in history, architecture, or panoramic views of the British countryside. Climbing to the top of the tower is a must-do activity for visitors to Windsor Castle, and the stunning views from the top are well worth the effort. While the climb can be steep and narrow at times, it is a relatively short journey, and visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of the castle, its surrounding gardens and parkland, and the rolling hills and villages of the surrounding area. At the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy an unobstructed view of the horizon in all directions, and gain a newfound appreciation for the strategic importance of the Round Tower and its place in the history of British engineering and architecture.
Final Checks
To make the day perfect make sure you check everything that is on offer on the day of your visit. Windsor Castle is a working royal palace so sometimes there are closures at short notice. Allow 2 or 3 hours for your visit, it is a very large site with lots of distance to be covered.
You can opt for an audio tour (included in the ticket price) which guides you around the State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls House, State Apartments and St Georges Chapel at a speed that suits you. Guides are available in 10 different languages. Backpacks and pushchairs must be checked in and reclaimed when you leave.
You can watch the changing of the guard at 11:00 (check schedule) then get your ticket stamped for re entry and avoid the coach tours. Discover the joys of Windsor, maybe get some delicious lunch in the town and then return when the Castle has less tourists for a more relaxed viewing.
