The Ultimate Guide to a Day Trip from London to Windsor Castle (2025)
Step into a storybook of British history with a visit to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. For nearly 1,000 years, this magnificent fortress has been a home, a stronghold, and a symbol of the monarchy, witnessing the reigns of 39 British sovereigns. Planning day trips from London to Windsor Castle can feel daunting, but it’s one of the most rewarding and surprisingly easy journeys you can make. This guide provides everything you need—from transport hacks to must-see sights—to plan your perfect, hassle-free royal adventure in 2025.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from London | ~23 miles (37 km) west |
| Travel Time | 30-60 mins by train; 60-120 mins by road |
| Average Cost (per person) | £75 – £120 (transport, ticket, lunch) |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays (Tues-Thurs) in Spring or Autumn |
How to Get to Windsor Castle from London
Getting to this royal residence is straightforward, with several great options to suit your budget and travel style. Whether you prefer the speed of a train or the convenience of a guided tour, here’s the breakdown.
By Train: The Fastest and Easiest Way
Taking the train is our top recommendation for speed, comfort, and convenience. You have two excellent services to choose from, both easily accessible using a contactless card or Oyster card. If you’re wondering how to get to Windsor Castle from London by tube, the answer is to take the Underground to either Paddington or Waterloo station to start your journey.
| Service | Departure Station (London) | Arrival Station (Windsor) | Journey Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great Western Railway (GWR) | Paddington | Windsor & Eton Central | ~30 mins | Fastest route, station is closer to the castle entrance. | Requires one simple change at Slough. |
| South Western Railway (SWR) | Waterloo | Windsor & Eton Riverside | ~55 mins | Direct service, scenic route along the Thames. | Slower, station is a slightly longer (but pleasant) walk. |
By Organised Tour: For Maximum Convenience
If you want a completely stress-free day, an organised tour is the perfect solution. These tours handle all the logistics, from coach transport to castle tickets, and often include a knowledgeable guide. This is also the best way to tackle a multi-stop trip. Many popular day tours from London to Windsor Castle combine the visit with other iconic sites.
- Pros: No need to worry about train times or booking tickets. Often includes expert commentary.
- Popular Combinations: The most common tours create an epic day trip by bundling Windsor Castle with Stonehenge and Bath. Be prepared for a long (12+ hours) but incredibly memorable day!
- Reputable Companies: Look for providers like Evan Evans Tours or Golden Tours for reliable and well-regarded experiences.
By Coach or Car: Budget & Flexibility
For budget-conscious travellers, the Green Line coach (Route 702/703) from Victoria Coach Station offers the cheapest way to get to Windsor. However, the journey can take 1.5-2 hours and is highly dependent on London traffic.
We generally advise against driving. The M4 motorway can be heavily congested, and parking in Windsor is notoriously limited and expensive. If you must drive, look for the Park & Ride services on the outskirts of town to save yourself a headache.
Top 5 Things to See at Windsor Castle
Once inside, the scale of the castle can be overwhelming. Here are the five absolute must-see highlights to prioritise on your visit.
- The State Apartments: Prepare to be dazzled. These opulent rooms are still used by the Royal Family for ceremonial events and state visits. You’ll walk through chambers adorned with priceless art by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck, and witness the incredible restoration work completed after the 1992 fire.
- St. George’s Chapel: A breathtaking masterpiece of English Perpendicular Gothic architecture, this chapel is more than just a place of worship. It’s a site of immense historical importance, hosting royal weddings (including Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s) and serving as the final resting place for 11 monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II. Note: Photography is forbidden inside, and it is closed to visitors on Sundays.
- Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: This isn’t just any dollhouse; it’s a miniature palace built on a 1:12 scale with unbelievable attention to detail. Designed in the 1920s, it features working electricity, running hot and cold water, and tiny, specially commissioned books and art from the era’s greatest talents.
- The Changing of the Guard: Witness a truly iconic display of British pageantry. This colourful ceremony, where one group of soldiers takes over from another, is a fantastic spectacle of precision and tradition. The schedule varies by season and is not daily, so you must check the official British Army website for the dates and times before your visit.
- The Castle Precincts & Views: Don’t rush from one room to the next. Take time to wander the castle grounds, known as the Precincts. Admire the formidable Round Tower, stand in the courtyard, and soak in the incredible panoramic views over the town of Windsor, Eton College, and the River Thames.
Sample Itinerary for a Perfect Day Trip
Here’s how to structure your day for a seamless and enjoyable experience, blending history with local charm.
- 8:30 AM – All Aboard at Paddington: Start your day like a Londoner. Grab a coffee and a pastry at the station before boarding the speedy GWR train. Enjoy the short ride out of the city.
- 9:30 AM – Arrive in Windsor: From Windsor & Eton Central station, it’s a lovely, short walk up the hill to the castle entrance. The anticipation builds with every step!
- 10:00 AM – Explore Windsor Castle: Enter right as it opens at 10:00 AM to get ahead of the main crowds. Head straight for the State Apartments to experience them when they are quietest, followed by St. George’s Chapel.
- 12:30 PM – Lunch in Town: You’ll be ready for a break. Leave the castle and explore the charming streets of Windsor to find a classic pub or a riverside café for lunch.
- 2:00 PM – A Stroll to Eton or The Long Walk: After lunch, choose your own adventure. Walk across the River Thames bridge for a glimpse of the prestigious Eton College, or head into Windsor Great Park to find the iconic Long Walk for that perfect photograph of the castle.
- 4:00 PM – Souvenirs & Return Journey: Browse the delightful shops for royal-themed souvenirs before making your way back to the station for a relaxing train ride back to London.
Where to Eat: Pubs & Restaurants in Windsor
Windsor offers a fantastic range of dining options, from historic pubs to elegant brasseries. Here are a few top picks.
Budget-Friendly Bites (£)
- The Duchess of Cambridge Pub: For classic, hearty pub fare in a royally-themed setting. A perfect spot for fish and chips and a pint.
- Cinnamon Café: A local favourite known for its excellent coffee, delicious pastries, and light bites. Great for a quick and affordable lunch.
Mid-Range Meals (££)
- The Boatman: Situated right on the banks of the Thames, this is the place to go for lovely riverside views and a varied gastropub menu.
- Giggling Squid: If you’re craving something different, this popular Thai restaurant serves up delicious and beautifully presented dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
A Royal Splurge (£££)
- The Ivy Windsor Brasserie: For a special occasion or a touch of luxury, The Ivy offers its signature elegant decor, modern British menu, and impeccable service. Booking is essential.
Insider Tips for Your 2025 Visit
Make your trip even smoother with these handy tips from seasoned travellers.
- Book Tickets Online: This is a must! You’ll often save a few pounds, but more importantly, you’ll skip the long ticket queue on the day and guarantee your entry.
- Check for Closures: Windsor is a working royal residence. Always check the official Royal Collection Trust website for closures or restricted opening times before you leave London.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on cobbled streets, hills, and expansive castle floors. Comfort is key!
- Arrive Early or Late: The castle is at its busiest between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM when large tour groups arrive. Arriving at opening time or after 2:00 PM will give you a more relaxed experience.
- Grab the Free Audio Guide: Included with your ticket, the multimedia guide is excellent. It’s narrated by Prince Charles and provides fascinating context and stories about the castle’s history and rooms.
- Security First: You’ll go through an airport-style security check upon entry. Pack light and have your bags ready to speed up this process.
What to Pack Checklist
Travel light, but travel smart. Here’s a simple checklist of essentials.
- [ ] Comfortable walking shoes
- [ ] A portable power bank for your phone
- [ ] Weather-appropriate clothing (a compact umbrella is always a good idea in the UK!)
- [ ] Camera (but remember the photo restrictions inside)
- [ ] Reusable water bottle
- [ ] Pre-booked tickets (digital or printed)
Windsor Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much to budget? Here’s a sample breakdown for different travel styles.
| Expense | Budget Traveller | Mid-Range Traveller | Luxury Traveller |
|---|---|---|---|
| Return Transport | ~£20 (Coach/Off-Peak Train) | ~£30 (Peak Train) | ~£150+ (Private Car/Tour) |
| Castle Ticket | ~£30 | ~£30 | ~£30 |
| Lunch | ~£15 (Sandwich/Café) | ~£30 (Pub/Restaurant) | ~£60+ (Fine Dining) |
| Extras (Coffee, Souvenir) | ~£10 | ~£25 | ~£50+ |
| TOTAL (est.) | ~£75 | ~£115 | ~£290+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip to Windsor Castle from London?
Yes, absolutely! It’s one of the easiest and most popular day trips from London. With the fastest train taking as little as 30 minutes, you can easily travel there, explore the castle and town, and be back in London for dinner.
Is a day trip to Windsor Castle worth it?
Definitely. It’s worth it for anyone interested in British history, the Royal Family, or magnificent architecture. Standing in rooms that have hosted kings and queens for centuries is a truly unforgettable experience that offers a fascinating glimpse into 1,000 years of history.
How much time do you need in Windsor Castle?
Plan for 2.5 to 3 hours inside the castle itself to see the main attractions without rushing. A full day trip of 5-7 hours is ideal, as it allows you to explore the charming town of Windsor, have a leisurely lunch, and perhaps walk along the River Thames.
What is the best day of the week to visit Windsor Castle?
Mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday) is generally the best time to visit to avoid the large weekend crowds. If your schedule allows, always try to avoid UK school holidays and bank holidays, when visitor numbers are at their peak.
Can you visit Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath in one day?
It is possible, but this ambitious itinerary is only recommended via an organized coach tour. It’s a very long and fast-paced day (often 12+ hours), but it allows time-crunched travellers to see three of England’s most famous landmarks. Doing this trio independently via public transport is not feasible in a single day.
TL;DR: Your Windsor Day Trip in a Nutshell
For those in a hurry, here’s the quick version: Take the fast train from London Paddington to get there in about 30 minutes. Book your castle tickets online in advance to skip the line. Plan to spend 3 hours inside the castle, making sure to see the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel. Wear comfy shoes, check the official website for closures before you go, and enjoy one of the best day trips from London!
