Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, a royal residence that has been home to British monarchs for over 900 years. Perched on a hill above the River Thames, this magnificent fortress blends medieval might with regal elegance. Visitors can explore the opulent State Apartments, the exquisite St George's Chapel (a masterpiece of Perpendicular Gothic architecture and the burial place of ten monarchs), and the sprawling castle grounds. The Changing of the Guard ceremony here is less crowded than at Buckingham Palace, offering a more intimate glimpse of royal pageantry.

Highlights & What to See

• State Apartments: Lavishly decorated rooms used for official entertaining, adorned with paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck, and the magnificent Grand Staircase.
• St George's Chapel: A stunning Gothic chapel where Henry VIII, Charles I, and Queen Elizabeth II are buried; the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter.
• Queen Mary's Dolls' House: A perfect miniature palace created for Queen Mary in the 1920s, complete with running water, electricity, and tiny works of art.
• Changing of the Guard: A colourful ceremony that usually takes place at 11am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays – check ahead as schedules vary.
• The Long Walk: A 2.65-mile tree-lined avenue leading from Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse statue, perfect for a scenic stroll.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day (4–5 hours) to explore Windsor Castle properly. Start early to beat the queues, and allow extra time for the Changing of the Guard and the audio guide tour, which brings the history to life. If you're combining with a walk through Windsor Great Park or the riverside town of Eton, plan for a full day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• London – Only 30–40 minutes by train from Paddington or Waterloo, ideal for a day trip from the capital.
• Oxford – The historic university city is just an hour's drive west, offering dreaming spires and the Ashmolean Museum.
• Bath – Famous for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture, it's about 1.5 hours southwest by car or train.
• Windsor Great Park – Adjacent to the castle, this 4,800-acre royal park offers walking, cycling, and the famous Long Walk.
• Eton – Cross the bridge over the Thames to explore the charming town and its prestigious college, founded in 1440.
• Legoland Windsor Resort – A family-friendly theme park just a few miles away, perfect if travelling with children.

Please check official sources for current details.