As one of the most iconic and oldest royal residences in the world, Windsor Castle is a must-see destination for anyone visiting London. Steeped in nearly a thousand years of British history, this impressive structure not only serves as the weekend home of Queen Elizabeth II (during her reign) but also as a working palace that has hosted some of the most important events in the British monarchy’s history.
Whether you’re fascinated by its regal charm, intrigued by its breathtaking architecture, or simply eager to explore its beautiful grounds and royal apartments, Windsor Castle is well worth the trip. Located approximately 25 miles west of central London, it is quite accessible for day trips. In this article, I’ll walk you through the best ways to travel from London to Windsor Castle, what you can expect along the way, and some insider tips to make your visit even more memorable.
Why Visit Windsor Castle?
Before diving into the logistics, let me tell you a bit about why Windsor Castle should be on your itinerary. Windsor Castle is not only a historical marvel but also a living testament to Britain’s monarchy. As the largest inhabited castle in the world, it offers a unique glimpse into royal life. You’ll find everything from the awe-inspiring State Apartments, filled with priceless artworks, to St George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot in 2018.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony outside the castle is another spectacle not to be missed. Plus, the town of Windsor itself is a charming riverside area that provides plenty of quaint cafes, boutique shops, and serene strolls along the Thames. Now that you’re convinced Windsor Castle is worth the visit, let’s get into how to get there!
Getting to Windsor Castle from London by Train
Taking the train is by far one of the easiest and fastest ways to travel from London to Windsor Castle. It’s not only convenient but also scenic, offering lovely views of the English countryside as you leave the bustle of the city behind. Here’s how you can do it:
Option 1: London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central
This is probably the quickest option for most travelers. From central London, head to London Paddington Station, one of the major transport hubs in the city. You can take a Great Western Railway (GWR) service to Slough, and then transfer onto the smaller train bound for Windsor & Eton Central Station.
Journey time: Approximately 30-50 minutes, depending on the connection time at Slough.
Ticket price: Prices can vary but generally range from £11 to £20 for a standard return ticket. Booking in advance may offer better rates.
Frequency: Trains run every 20-30 minutes, making it a flexible and convenient option.
Option 2: London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside
Another route is via London Waterloo Station, from where you can take a direct South Western Railway train to Windsor & Eton Riverside Station. This is a direct route, so no transfers are needed, which some travelers prefer.
Journey time: Approximately 55-70 minutes.
Ticket price: Generally around £10 to £18 for a return ticket.
Frequency: Trains run every 30 minutes throughout the day.
Insider Tip: Both Windsor stations are within walking distance of Windsor Castle, but Windsor & Eton Central Station is closer (about a 5-minute walk), while Windsor & Eton Riverside is around 15 minutes away by foot. If walking is a concern, keep this in mind when choosing your train route.
Driving to Windsor Castle from London
For those who prefer more flexibility, renting a car and driving to Windsor Castle is another option. While driving in London can be stressful due to traffic and parking challenges, once you’re out of the city, the roads are relatively straightforward.
The Route:
Take the M4 motorway from central London towards Slough and follow the signs to Windsor.
Exit at junction 6 and follow the A332 towards Windsor.
Journey time: On a good day, the drive from London to Windsor Castle takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Parking: Windsor has several car parks, including Windsor Dataran and King Edward VII Avenue, which are within walking distance of the castle. Parking costs range from £3 to £10 for a few hours, depending on the time of year and day of the week.
Insider Tip: Driving gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding area after visiting Windsor Castle. Nearby attractions include Eton College, the historic school just across the river, or even Legoland Windsor, a great option if you’re traveling with kids.
Going to Windsor Castle by Bus or Coach
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, taking a bus or coach from London to Windsor Castle could be a great choice. While it’s slower compared to the train, buses can be more economical, especially for larger groups or families.
Option 1: Green Line Coach 702
The Green Line 702 coach service runs from Victoria Coach Station in central London and takes you directly to Windsor.
Journey time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Ticket price: Tickets are typically cheaper than train fares, with prices ranging from £10 to £15 for a return ticket.
Frequency: Coaches run every hour throughout the day.
See Also: How to Go to Brighton Beach from London
Option 2: National Express
You can also opt for National Express, which operates services to Windsor from various locations in London. However, this option is less frequent, so it’s worth checking schedules in advance.
Insider Tip: Buses tend to be slower than trains, especially during peak times, as they have to navigate London’s traffic. However, if you’re not in a rush and are looking to save a bit on transport, this is a solid option.
Taking a Guided Tour from London to Windsor Castle
For those who want a hassle-free experience, many companies offer guided day tours from London to Windsor Castle. These tours typically include round-trip transportation, often by luxury coach, and entry to the castle. Some even offer combined tours with stops at other major attractions such as Stonehenge or Bath.
Why Choose a Guided Tour?
Convenience: All logistics, including transportation and tickets, are handled for you.
Informative guides: You’ll learn more about the history and significance of Windsor Castle from an expert guide.
Combined attractions: Many tours include visits to other popular UK landmarks, making it a more efficient use of your time.
Price: Prices for guided tours vary but typically start around £50-£100 per person, depending on what’s included.
Insider Tip: While guided tours are convenient, they can feel a bit rushed. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, a self-guided trip using public transport or a rental car may be a better fit.
Cycling from London to Windsor Castle
If you’re an adventurous traveler and enjoy cycling, consider biking from London to Windsor Castle! The route from London to Windsor is surprisingly scenic, taking you through the Thames Path and some of the most picturesque countryside in the area.
The Route:
The main cycle route from London to Windsor runs alongside the Thames, taking in some lovely riverside scenery.
From central London, head west towards Richmond, following the Thames Path.
Continue past Hampton Court Palace and Runnymede, eventually arriving in Windsor.
Journey time: This is a long ride, taking around 3-4 hours depending on your pace.
Distance: Approximately 25-30 miles, depending on your starting point and the route you take.
Bicycle hire: You can rent bicycles in London from various companies, including Santander Cycles or more specialized bike rental shops.
Insider Tip: Be sure to check the weather and wear appropriate clothing. While this can be a fun and unique way to travel to Windsor, it’s not for the faint of heart! However, the sense of accomplishment when you cycle into Windsor and see the castle in the distance is well worth the effort.
Final Tips for Your Visit to Windsor Castle
Regardless of how you get there, here are some last-minute tips to make the most of your visit to Windsor Castle:
Book tickets in advance – Windsor Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the UK, so it’s wise to book your tickets ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.
Arrive early – The castle opens at 10 AM, and getting there early ensures you beat the crowds, especially for the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Plan for at least half a day – There’s a lot to see at Windsor Castle, including the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, and the grounds. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours exploring the area.
Explore Windsor town – After your visit, take some time to wander around Windsor town. The riverside views, charming shops, and cafes make for a delightful afternoon.
Check the castle’s schedule – The castle sometimes closes for official royal functions, so it’s important to check ahead to ensure it’s open during your planned visit.
Conclusion
Windsor Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in British history, architecture, and royal traditions. Whether you prefer the speed and convenience of the train, the flexibility of driving, or even the leisurely pace of a guided tour, there are multiple ways to reach Windsor Castle from London.
Each method of transportation offers its own unique advantages, so choose the one that best suits your travel style and itinerary. Regardless of how you get there, visiting Windsor Castle will be a memorable experience, filled with stunning sights and fascinating history. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to journey from London to one of the UK’s most iconic royal residences!
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