Windsor Castle, one of the three official residences of the British monarch, has several rules and guidelines that visitors must follow to ensure a smooth and respectful visit. From prohibited items to photography restrictions, this comprehensive guide covers the essential Windsor Castle rules to help you plan your castle tour.
Prohibited Items at Windsor Castle
Visitors to Windsor Castle must be aware of the following prohibited items:
| Item | Restriction |
|---|---|
| Knives and Blades | Pen knives and knives with blades under 7.7 cm (3 inches) must be checked in and reclaimed at the end of the visit. |
| Scissors | Scissors are not allowed within the castle. |
| Kirpans | Kirpans, a Sikh article of faith, are allowed only if the blade is under 7.7 cm (3 inches). |
Photography and Filming Restrictions
Photography and video recording are subject to the following rules at Windsor Castle:
- State Apartments and St George’s Chapel: No photography or video recording is allowed within the State Apartments or St George’s Chapel.
Eating and Drinking Policies
Visitors to Windsor Castle must adhere to the following rules regarding eating and drinking:
- State Apartments and Grounds: Eating and drinking are not permitted in the State Apartments or the castle grounds.
Bag Policy
Visitors to Windsor Castle should be aware of the following bag policy:
- Large Bags: Large bags or umbrellas are not allowed in the State Apartments. They must be checked in or left in the cloakroom.
Other Rules and Restrictions
In addition to the above, visitors to Windsor Castle must also follow these rules:
- Smoking and Vaping: Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere in Windsor Castle.
- Comfortable Shoes: Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes as the castle is situated on a steep hill and the visitor route covers long distances.
Accessibility and Mobility
Windsor Castle is accessible, with the following considerations:
- Accessibility: The castle offers concessionary rates for visitors with disabilities, a free access companion ticket, and accessible facilities such as toilets and a café.
- Mobility: The castle is situated at the top of a steep hill, and visitors need to cover long distances. A photo journey is available to help plan the visit.
Closures and Special Events
Visitors to Windsor Castle should be aware of the following closures and special events:
- State Visits and Special Occasions: The castle may close for state visits and special occasions. Visitors should check the official website for closure dates in advance.
- Changing of the Guard: The Changing of the Guard takes place at 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, but can vary depending on the time of year.
Ticketing and Timings
Visitors to Windsor Castle should be aware of the following ticketing and timing information:
- Opening Times: The castle is open from Thursday to Monday, with timed admission slots every 30 minutes. The first entry is at 10:00, and the last entry is at 16:00 (15:00 during winter months).
- Ticket Information: Tickets can be booked in advance through Visit Britain or the Royal Collection Trust website. Children go half price, and adults can purchase tickets online or by telephone.
Additional Tips
To make the most of your visit to Windsor Castle, consider the following tips:
- Plan Ahead: Visitors are advised to plan their visit in advance, allowing 2.5 to 3 hours to see everything.
- Avoid Peak Times: Peak times are during summer months and weekends. Visiting after 1 pm can help avoid crowds.
By following these rules and guidelines, visitors can ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit to Windsor Castle, one of the most iconic royal residences in the world.
References:
– https://www.londontoolkit.com/whattodo/windsor_castle.htm
– https://londontravelplanning.com/visiting-windsor-castle/
– https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle
– https://www.windsor.gov.uk/things-to-do/windsor-castle-p43983
– https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/practical-information-for-visiting-windsor-castle