Windsor Day Trip at a Glance: Quick Facts for 2025
Planning the perfect royal day out? Here’s everything you need to know in a flash for your day trip to Windsor Castle from London.
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from London | ~22 miles (35 km) west of Central London |
| Average Travel Time | 40-60 minutes by train |
| Estimated Day Cost (per person) | £75 – £120 |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring/Autumn on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday |
| Castle Visit Duration | 2-3 hours is ideal |
How to Get to Windsor Castle from London
Getting to Windsor is a breeze, with several convenient options to suit your budget and schedule. While driving is possible, we highly recommend the train for a stress-free journey.
By Train: The Fastest & Easiest Option
The train is undoubtedly the best way to travel to Windsor. You have two excellent routes, both dropping you within a short 5-10 minute walk of the castle entrance. Here’s how they compare:
| Route | Departs From | Journey Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paddington Route | London Paddington | ~30-40 mins | Fastest way to get there. | Requires one quick change at Slough. |
| Waterloo Route | London Waterloo | ~55-60 mins | Direct, no changes, more scenic route. | Slower overall journey time. |
An Off-Peak Day Return ticket for either route typically costs around £25-£35. Book in advance for the best fares!
By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Choice
For those watching their wallets, the Green Line 702/703 coach service from London Victoria Coach Station is a fantastic option. With return fares around £15-£20, it’s the cheapest way to go. However, be prepared for a longer journey of around 90 minutes or more, as it’s subject to London traffic.
By Car: Flexibility at a Cost
We generally advise against driving for your day trip to Windsor Castle. The journey via the M4 takes about an hour without traffic, but you’ll need to factor in London’s Congestion Charge and ULEZ zones. Parking in Windsor is also limited and can be expensive (upwards of £20 for a full day at car parks like Romney Lock or King Edward VII Ave). The train is simply easier!
Planning Your 2025 Visit to Windsor Castle
A little planning goes a long way. Here are the essential details on tickets, opening times, and the best time to schedule your visit.
Windsor Castle Tickets & Prices
CRITICAL TIP: Always book your tickets online in advance via the official Royal Collection Trust website. This is not only cheaper than buying on the day, but it also allows you to skip the often very long ticket queue.
- Adult: ~£30.00
- Young Person (18-24): ~£19.50
- Child (5-17): ~£15.00
- Under 5: Free
Your ticket includes a complimentary multimedia guide, which is brilliant for uncovering the stories behind the magnificent rooms and artefacts.
Opening Hours
Opening times vary by season, and it’s vital to remember that Windsor is a working royal palace, so closures for state events can happen at short notice. Always check the official website the day before you travel!
- March – October: 10:00 – 17:15 (last admission 16:00)
- November – February: 10:00 – 16:15 (last admission 15:00)
- Important Note: St. George’s Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays for religious services.
Top 5 Things to See at Windsor Castle (Don’t Miss These!)
Once inside, the scale of the castle can be overwhelming. To make the most of your visit, be sure to prioritise these five incredible highlights.
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The Magnificent State Apartments
Prepare to be awestruck. These are the lavish rooms used by The Royal Family for ceremonial visits and official events. Walk through the Grand Reception Room, with its glittering chandeliers, and marvel at priceless masterpieces from the Royal Collection, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto. Please note that photography is not permitted inside the State Apartments.
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St. George’s Chapel
A true masterpiece of English Perpendicular Gothic architecture, St. George’s Chapel is both breathtakingly beautiful and historically profound. It has hosted numerous royal weddings, including that of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. It is also the final resting place for 11 monarchs, including Henry VIII, Charles I, and, most recently, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Out of respect, photography is forbidden, and it is closed to tourists on Sundays.
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Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
This isn’t just any dolls’ house; it’s a magical miniature palace created in the 1920s with unbelievable attention to detail. It features running hot and cold water, electricity, working lifts, and a library filled with tiny, original books by famous authors of the day. It’s a delightful and enchanting sight for all ages.
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The Changing of the Guard
Witness a slice of iconic British pageantry! This formal ceremony sees the handover of duties between groups of guards. It typically takes place at 11:00 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (weather permitting). The best view is from inside the castle walls. Crucially, the schedule can vary, so you must check the official British Army website for the confirmed dates and times before you go.
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The Castle Precincts and Views
Don’t rush from one room to the next. Take time to wander through the castle grounds, known as the precincts. Walk around the Middle and Upper Wards, admire the iconic Round Tower, and soak in the spectacular views over the town of Windsor, Eton College, and the rolling Berkshire countryside.
Sample One-Day Windsor Itinerary from London
Want a perfectly planned day? Follow this simple itinerary to maximise your time and experience the best of Windsor without feeling rushed.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 08:30 | Depart London | Take an early train from Paddington (fastest) or Waterloo (scenic). |
| 09:30 | Arrive in Windsor | Walk up from the station, grab a coffee, and head towards the castle entrance. |
| 10:00 | Enter Windsor Castle | Arrive right at opening to beat the tour buses. Head straight to the State Apartments first. |
| 12:30 | Lunch Time | Find a traditional pub like The Duchess of Cambridge for classic fish and chips. |
| 14:00 | Explore Windsor & Eton | Stroll across the River Thames via the Windsor Town Bridge to see historic Eton College. |
| 15:30 | The Long Walk | Enjoy a leisurely walk down The Long Walk in Windsor Great Park for that iconic castle photo. |
| 17:00 | Depart for London | Head back to the train station for your relaxing journey back to the city. |
Where to Eat in Windsor: From Pubs to Fine Dining
Windsor offers a fantastic range of dining options. Whether you’re after a quick pasty or a celebratory meal, you’ll find something to suit your taste and budget.
Budget-Friendly Bites (£)
- The King & Castle: A Wetherspoons pub right opposite the castle, offering unbeatable value for food and drinks.
- Cornish Bakery: Perfect for grabbing a delicious, flaky pasty or a sweet treat on the go.
Classic Mid-Range Meals (££)
- The Carpenter’s Arms: A classic gastropub with a great atmosphere and a menu of elevated British favourites.
- Meimo: A highly-rated spot for flavourful and authentic Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine.
A Special Occasion (£££)
- A La Russe: An elegant choice for fine dining, serving sophisticated modern European cuisine with a Russian twist.
- Dining at The Oakley Court Hotel: For true luxury, head to this stunning hotel on the banks of the Thames for an unforgettable meal.
Insider Tips for Visiting Windsor Castle
- Book Tickets Online: It bears repeating! Booking in advance on the official website saves you time and money.
- Check for Closures: As a working palace, parts of the castle can close at short notice. Always check the official site before you leave.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on cobbled streets and up hills. Comfort is key!
- Allow Time for Security: There’s an airport-style security check at the entrance. Pack light and avoid large bags to get through faster.
- Use the Free Multimedia Guide: It’s included with your ticket and is narrated by members of the Royal Household. It adds wonderful context to your visit.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
Pack smart to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day out exploring Windsor.
- Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable!
- A waterproof jacket or umbrella (this is England, after all).
- A portable phone charger or power bank.
- Your camera for all the exterior shots.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Your pre-booked train and castle tickets (on your phone is fine).
Windsor Day Trip Budget Breakdown (per person)
Here’s a realistic look at what you can expect to spend on your day trip to Windsor Castle from London.
| Expense | Low-End Estimate | High-End Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Return Train Ticket | £25 | £35 |
| Windsor Castle Ticket | £30 | £30 |
| Lunch & Drink | £15 | £40 |
| Coffee/Snacks | £5 | £15 |
| TOTAL | £75 | £120 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Windsor Castle worth a day trip from London?
Absolutely! It’s one of the best and easiest day trips from the capital. It offers a perfect blend of royal history, magnificent architecture, and the charm of a quintessential English town, all just a short train ride away.
How long do you need for a day trip to Windsor?
Plan for a total of 5-7 hours. This gives you a comfortable 2-3 hours to explore the castle thoroughly, plus time for travel, a leisurely lunch, and a stroll around the lovely town of Windsor and neighbouring Eton.
What is the easiest way to get to Windsor Castle from London?
The train is by far the easiest, fastest, and most reliable way. Take the train from London Paddington for the quickest journey (with one change) or from London Waterloo for a slightly slower but direct and scenic ride.
Can you do Windsor Castle and Stonehenge in one day?
While some organised coach tours cram both into one day, we strongly advise against it for independent travel. It results in a very rushed day with hours spent travelling. To truly appreciate each historic site, they are best experienced as two separate, more relaxed day trips.
Do you have to pay to walk around Windsor?
No, not at all! Exploring the town of Windsor, walking across the bridge to Eton, and strolling down the beautiful Long Walk in Windsor Great Park are all completely free. The admission fee applies only to entering Windsor Castle itself.
TLDR: Your Windsor Day Trip in a Nutshell
- Best Way There: Train from London Paddington (fastest) or Waterloo (direct).
- Top Tip: Buy castle tickets online in advance to save money and skip the line.
- Must-Sees: The State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
- Remember: St. George’s Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays.
- Best Photo Op: From the end of The Long Walk in Windsor Great Park.
