Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, has several entrances that provide easy access to visitors. From the main entrance and parking facility to the historic downtown area access, the castle offers multiple entry points for a seamless visitor experience.
Main Entrance and Parking Facility
The main entrance and parking facility are located on Jericho Road off Cedar Street. Ample parking is available at the dog park/natural playscape area (#1/2 on the park map) and near the outfitters station (#10 on the park map).
Access from Historic Downtown Area
Access from the historic downtown area is available at the end of South Mason Street via the Mason Street Bridge (#5 on the park map). Parking for this entrance is in the downtown area, as well as at a shared parking lot at Trinity United Methodist Church at the corner of Mason and Cedar Streets.
Smithfield Station Parking Lot Entrance
A third entrance to the park is available from the Smithfield Station parking lot.
Ticket Entrance and Security
The ticket entrance is at the top of Castle Hill, on the right. Visitors pass through airline-style security where bags are put through an x-ray machine, and they empty their pockets and pass through a detector door.
Henry VII Gate (Exit)
The exit is from the main Windsor Castle Henry VII Gate, not the entrance with the ticket desks.
Advance Gate
The Advance Gate is another entrance point, as depicted in an engraving from the Royal Collection Trust.
Accessibility
Windsor Castle is accessible, with concessionary rates available for visitors with disabilities. A free access companion ticket can be booked online.
Timings and Opening Hours
Windsor Castle is open from Thursday to Monday, with timed admission slots every 30 minutes. The first entry is at 10:00 AM, and the last entry varies by season (16:00 during March to October and 15:00 during November to February).
Best Time to Visit
To avoid crowds, it is recommended to visit the castle after lunch, especially during the summer months when visitor numbers are higher.
Ticket Information
The ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and type of visit. Tickets can be booked online or over the telephone. For detailed information, visit the Royal Collection Trust website.
Additional Tips
- The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place between 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM, adding to the morning rush.
- St George’s Chapel is closed to general visitors on Sundays but is open for worshippers. Access may be limited after 13:30, particularly on Saturdays.
References:
– Windsor Castle Park Entrances. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.windsorcastlepark.com/park-entrances.html
– Windsor Castle. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.windsor.gov.uk/things-to-do/windsor-castle-p43983
– Windsor Castle – Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle
– Visiting Windsor Castle – what to expect, make an informed visit. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.londontoolkit.com/whattodo/windsor_castle.htm
– Windsor Castle. Entrance from the Town. – Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/collection/700363/windsor-castle-entrance-from-the-town