A Windsor Castle Tour offers an enriching experience, taking you deep into the heart of British royal history. Located just outside of London, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and has been the residence of British monarchs for over 900 years. A day trip from London to Windsor Castle, with an optional lunch, provides the perfect opportunity to explore this magnificent royal residence while enjoying the charm of the surrounding town.
This guide provides everything you need to know about a Windsor Castle Tour from London, including key highlights, practical information, and tips for making the most of your visit.
1. Overview of Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of the British Royal Family and remains a working royal palace to this day. The castle’s grandeur and historical significance make it one of the top tourist attractions in the UK. Visitors can explore the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, all while admiring centuries of royal art, architecture, and history.
2. Key Highlights of the Windsor Castle Tour
The State Apartments
The State Apartments at Windsor Castle are lavish rooms used for ceremonial and official events. They are decorated with magnificent art collections, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto. Each room in the State Apartments reflects a different period in history, from the grandeur of the Georgian era to the elegance of the Victorian age.
Key Features:
- The Grand Reception Room: One of the most opulent rooms in the castle, featuring glittering chandeliers and gold-leaf detailing.
- The Waterloo Chamber: This grand hall is lined with portraits of European monarchs and military commanders, celebrating the British victory at the Battle of Waterloo.
- St. George’s Hall: This hall, where state banquets are held, is adorned with the coats of arms of the Knights of the Order of the Garter, the oldest chivalric order in Britain.
St. George’s Chapel
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, St. George’s Chapel is one of the most beautiful and significant buildings within Windsor Castle. It has been the site of numerous royal events, including weddings and burials. Most recently, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married here in 2018.
What to See:
- Royal Tombs: The chapel is the final resting place of many monarchs, including Henry VIII, Charles I, and Queen Elizabeth II.
- The Quire: This ornate section of the chapel is where members of the Order of the Garter, the highest order of chivalry in Britain, are installed.
Pro Tip: Visit the chapel earlier in the day to avoid crowds, and check for closures as it is an active place of worship.
Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
One of the most extraordinary exhibits at Windsor Castle is Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. Built in the 1920s for Queen Mary, this miniature mansion is complete with running water, electricity, and fully furnished rooms, all crafted to the highest level of detail. It offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life on a miniature scale.
The Changing of the Guard
If you visit Windsor Castle in the morning, you may be able to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This colorful display of British pomp and pageantry is similar to the ceremony at Buckingham Palace and is an iconic part of the Windsor Castle experience.
Pro Tip: The Changing of the Guard usually takes place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, but it’s always a good idea to check the schedule before your visit.
3. The Windsor Castle Tour with Optional Lunch
Tour Duration
A typical Windsor Castle Tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, including travel time from London. The tour allows ample time to explore the castle’s key attractions, stroll through the beautiful grounds, and learn about its history from expert guides.
Optional Lunch
Many tour operators offer the option to include lunch as part of your Windsor Castle tour. This is a great way to enhance your experience by enjoying a traditional British meal in one of Windsor’s charming restaurants or pubs.
Lunch Options:
- Traditional British Pubs: Enjoy classic British dishes such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, or a ploughman’s lunch.
- Afternoon Tea: For a more refined experience, some tours include afternoon tea, complete with scones, sandwiches, and pastries served with a pot of tea.
Pro Tip: If you opt for the lunch option, check whether it’s included at a local restaurant or if it’s part of the tour package, as some tours may provide vouchers for use at nearby eateries.
4. What to Expect During the Tour
Morning Departure from London
Most Windsor Castle tours depart from central London in the morning, with convenient pickup points near popular locations such as Victoria Station or Paddington Station. You’ll be transported by a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, and the journey to Windsor takes about 1 hour.
Expert Guides
The tour typically includes an English-speaking guide who will provide fascinating insights into the history of Windsor Castle, its royal connections, and the architectural beauty of the site. Some tours may offer audio guides for self-paced exploration, allowing you to delve into specific areas of interest.
Free Time in Windsor
After your guided tour of the castle, you will often have some free time to explore the town of Windsor. This picturesque town is filled with charming shops, cafés, and historical landmarks, making it a pleasant place to wander around. You can visit Windsor Great Park, take a walk by the River Thames, or shop for souvenirs in the town center.
Return to London
At the end of the tour, you’ll be transported back to London, typically arriving in the early afternoon or early evening, depending on the tour duration and whether you’ve opted for the lunch option.
5. Practical Information for Visitors
What to Bring
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking through the expansive grounds of Windsor Castle and the town of Windsor, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: As much of the tour takes place outdoors, bring a jacket or umbrella if rain is in the forecast.
- Camera: Photography is allowed in the courtyards and grounds, but not inside the State Apartments or St. George’s Chapel, so be sure to capture the exterior beauty of the castle.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Windsor Castle is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. The summer months (July and August) are popular with tourists, so book your tickets early if you plan to visit during this period.
6. How to Book Your Windsor Castle Tour
Booking a Windsor Castle Tour from London with the option for lunch is easy and can be done online. To secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons, it is recommended to book in advance. You can reserve your tour through trusted platforms like Viator, which offers a variety of tour options with guided experiences and optional lunch add-ons.
7. Conclusion: A Royal Day Out
A Windsor Castle Tour from London, complete with an optional lunch, offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and royal tradition. Whether you’re intrigued by the grandeur of the State Apartments, the royal connections at St. George’s Chapel, or the charm of the town of Windsor, this day trip is a perfect way to immerse yourself in British heritage.
“Walk in the footsteps of kings and queens, and discover the timeless beauty of Windsor Castle.“
To ensure a seamless and enriching experience, book your Windsor Castle Tour from London with Lunch Option through Viator today.
For more travel tips and lifestyle content, visit Zeosh, your trusted source for inspiration and advice.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Please check the Viator booking page for the latest updates on tour schedules, availability, and pricing.
