Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, is a must-visit destination for any castles touring enthusiast. As a visitor, it’s essential to be aware of the castle’s opening hours and plan your visit accordingly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the details of Windsor Castle’s timings, providing you with all the information you need to make the most of your experience.
Windsor Castle Opening Hours
The opening hours of Windsor Castle vary depending on the season:
- From 1 March to 31 October: The castle is open from 10 am to 5:15 pm, with the last admission at 4 pm.
- From 1 November to 28 February: The castle is open from 10 am to 4:15 pm, with the last admission at 3 pm.
St George’s Chapel Opening Hours
St. George’s Chapel, located within the castle grounds, has a different schedule. The chapel is open to ticketed visitors of the Castle on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. It’s important to note that the chapel closes early on December 23 and 24, with the last admission at 1 pm.
Ticket Information
Admission to Windsor Castle comes with a fee, and it’s essential to be aware of the pricing structure:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | £28 |
| 18-24 year olds | £18 |
| Children 5-16 | £15.50 |
| Children under 5 | Free |
| Family (2 Adults and 3 Children) | £60.50 |
Pro Tips for Visiting Windsor Castle
To make the most of your visit to Windsor Castle, consider the following pro tips:
- Book Tickets in Advance: To avoid long queues and ensure availability, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance.
- Attend a Service at St George’s Chapel: If you’re interested in seeing the chapel, consider attending a Sunday service, even if you’re not religious.
- Plan Around the Changing of the Guard: The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place at 11 am, weather permitting, from Monday to Saturday between April and the end of June.
Accessibility and Mobility
Windsor Castle is accessible, with concessionary rates available for visitors with disabilities. The castle offers a free access companion ticket and accessible facilities, including an accessible café, toilets, and a Changing Places.
However, it’s important to note that the castle is situated at the top of a steep hill, and visitors need to cover long distances. To help plan your visit, you can download a photo journey from the official website.
Special Events and Closures
It’s important to be aware that Windsor Castle may be closed to the public on short notice due to state occasions and other events. Before your visit, be sure to check the official website for any updates or closures.
Additionally, the Queen Mary’s Dolls House is currently closed for planned improvement works.
Getting to Windsor Castle
There are several ways to reach Windsor Castle:
- By Train: Take a train from Paddington station in Central London to Slough, then transfer to Windsor & Eton Central. The castle is a 3-minute walk from the train station.
- By Car or Bus: The journey from London takes around 50 minutes to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic. Parking is available near the castle, but it fills up quickly.
Recommended Duration
A typical visit to Windsor Castle lasts around two to three hours, allowing you to explore the castle’s rich history and stunning architecture.
Changing Ticket Time
If you arrive late, you may be able to change your ticket time by contacting the ticket office or the Windsor Castle administration. However, this is subject to availability and may not always be possible.
By understanding the Windsor Castle timings and planning your visit accordingly, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience as a castles touring enthusiast. Remember to book your tickets in advance, plan your visit around the key events, and take advantage of the castle’s accessibility features to make the most of your time at this iconic landmark.
Reference:
- https://thetourguy.com/travel-blog/england/london/windsor-castle/how-to-visit-windsor-castle-this-year/
- https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle
- https://changing-guard.com/windsor-castle.html