Windsor Castle, one of the most iconic royal residences in the world, is a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the globe. While the castle itself is not entirely free to access, there are some exceptions and special cases where you can enjoy certain parts of the grounds without paying for admission.
Accessing the Windsor Castle Grounds
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General Admission: The majority of the Windsor Castle grounds, including the courtyards, St. George’s Chapel, and other areas within the castle walls, require a ticket for admission. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the castle’s entrance.
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Residents’ Advantage Card Holders: Until June 1, 2023, residents with a Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Advantage Card could enter the castle for free. After that date, they will be required to pay half the standard admission fee.
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MOD90 or Defence Discount Scheme Cardholders: These cardholders can enjoy free admission once a year with up to four guests at all Royal Collection Trust sites, including Windsor Castle.
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Sunday Services at St. George’s Chapel: On Sundays, you can attend services at St. George’s Chapel free of charge, which allows you to see the interior of the chapel. However, worshippers are not encouraged to linger after the service.
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Changing the Guard Ceremony: You can watch the Changing the Guard ceremony outside the castle, but this does not grant access to the castle grounds themselves.
Exploring the Outer Walls of Windsor Castle
While you cannot freely access the castle grounds, you can still enjoy the impressive outer walls of Windsor Castle from the streets of Windsor. The castle’s towering walls and turrets are a sight to behold, and you can take in the grandeur of the castle from the surrounding areas without paying for admission.
Ticket Prices and Discounts
The standard admission fee for Windsor Castle varies depending on the time of year and the specific areas you wish to visit. Here are some general ticket prices:
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child (5-16 years) | Concession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castle, State Apartments, and St. George’s Chapel | £26.50 | £14.50 | £24.00 |
| Castle and State Apartments | £23.50 | £13.50 | £21.00 |
| St. George’s Chapel | £12.00 | £5.50 | £10.50 |
It’s important to note that these prices are subject to change, and visitors are encouraged to check the official Windsor Castle website for the most up-to-date information.
Additionally, there are various discounts and special offers available, such as:
- Online Advance Tickets: Visitors can save up to 15% by purchasing their tickets online in advance.
- Family Tickets: Families can save money by purchasing a discounted family ticket.
- Group Discounts: Groups of 15 or more people can receive a discounted group rate.
- Annual Passes: Visitors can purchase an annual pass, which provides unlimited access to Windsor Castle and other Royal Collection Trust sites for a year.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
While the Windsor Castle grounds may not be entirely free to access, the surrounding area of Windsor offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore without paying admission fees. The town of Windsor itself is a charming and historic destination, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions to discover.
Visitors can also explore the nearby Windsor Great Park, a vast and beautiful green space that offers opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying the natural surroundings. The park is free to access and provides stunning views of the castle from various vantage points.
Conclusion
In summary, while the Windsor Castle grounds are not entirely free to access, there are some exceptions and special cases where visitors can enjoy certain parts of the castle without paying for admission. Whether you’re a resident with a special card, attending a Sunday service at St. George’s Chapel, or simply admiring the castle’s impressive outer walls, there are ways to experience the grandeur of Windsor Castle without breaking the bank.
Reference:
– Windsor Castle Official Website
– Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Advantage Card
– MOD90 or Defence Discount Scheme