Windsor Castle reminds us of all the things royal and opulent. As the current home of the British Royal Family, this is your only chance to have a brush with royalty. Grab the opportunity to tour the castle grounds that have a rich history dating back to the 11th century. This formidable castle is the Queen’s official residence and her favorite weekend home. Being the oldest and the largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor castle is unique in every aspect. It has seen the rise and fall of many British monarchs throughout history and has been redecorated, enlarged, and rebuilt many times.
We are lucky that Windsor Castle is now open to the public as a tourist spot. There is so much to explore inside the castle grounds that you would want to spend a major part of your day there! If you are planning a day trip to Windsor Castle, there are a few things that you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Ten Things To Know About Windsor Castle
Every tourist attraction has certain written and unwritten rules that you have to follow to enjoy the best experience. Windsor Castle is no exception. Do read this article before planning a visit to Windsor Castle to get the best out of your tour. We did the research for you, so all you have to do is plan accordingly!
Book Your Tickets in Advance
If you are planning to visit Windsor Castle, make sure that you purchase your tickets in advance. You can either purchase them online or at the ticket counter. There are different ticket prices for children, disabled, adults, young people, and people traveling in groups. The prices are altered a little when the State Apartments are closed, so it is always better to check before going. If you wish to avoid the queues at the counter, it is better to book your tickets in advance.
Check The Opening Hours Before Visiting
Windsor Castle is not a monument of the past. It is still a working castle which is used by the Queen for many occasions- both ceremonial and state. The openings time change throughout the year and it is always prudent to check the timings before you go to avoid any last minute disappointments. The castle usually opens at 9.45 am all year round and closes at 5.15 pm between March and October, and 4.15 pm between November and February. Sometimes on account of ceremonial and state events, Windsor Castle remains closed for a few days. One such event was Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s wedding. Even though Windsor Castle is open to the public, it will be closed during important events. Better to check the website for updated information than to show up unannounced only to be asked to leave.
To Avoid The Queues, Head To The Castle After Lunch
Mornings are usually the busiest, and you will see people lining up in front of the castle to enter. If you wish to avoid the queues, you should straightaway go for lunch, and come back after midday. If you do this, you will be able to avoid the queues and explore the castle in peace.
Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays are for the Changing Of The Guard Ceremony
If you wish to witness the Changing Of The Guard Ceremony then you need to be there on the above mentioned days before 11am. You need to enter the castle to watch the actual handover, but you can also watch the ceremony from Guildhall. It is better to visit the castle on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Saturdays to watch the amazing Changing Of The Guard ceremony. You should avoid Sundays, and we will tell you why in the next point.
Avoid Sundays
There is no point in visiting Windsor Castle on a Sunday because St. George’s Chapel will be shut to the public. The chapel has a service at 5.15 pm on Sundays but it is not open to the public. St. George’s Chapel is a fine example of gothic architecture, and was the venue for the royal wedding of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. In our opinion, a visit to Windsor Castle is incomplete without experiencing the grandeur of St. George’s Chapel.
Keep Ample Time In Hand
Remember that you will be subjected to an airport style check, so make sure that you have ample time in hand. Don’t keep any unnecessary items on you to avoid further delays. Only carry those items that are absolutely necessary. The more stuff you have, the more time-consuming the search is going to be.
Don’t Ignore The Rules
Windsor Castle is a royal residence, hence it goes without saying that there are rules attached to this place. You can’t click pictures or record videos inside the State Apartments. Eating and drinking are also prohibited inside the castle, so make sure you put away all the snacks that you are carrying.
You Can Visit The Castle Twice On One Ticket
After your initial visit, your ticket allows you to visit Windsor Castle again within a year. It means that one ticket you can avail two trips within a year. So, if you miss something in your first tour, you can always come back within a year and get a second tour absolutely free.
There are many ways to arrive at Windsor Castle. You can take a train or drive. However, if you book this tour with us, you will be taken there on our London Tourist Bus. It will be a memorable trip, and you will return with an enriched experience.
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