Overview
Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, has a rich history spanning over 1,000 years. While it is primarily known as a royal residence, it also has a lesser-known aspect: its dungeons. These dungeons have played a significant role in the castle’s history, particularly during times of war and conflict.
History of the Dungeons
The Curfew Tower, one of the earliest parts of Windsor Castle, contains the remains of the dungeon. This large, vaulted chamber has seven recesses that were originally cells for holding prisoners. Over the years, the dungeon held various prisoners, including soldiers, gentry, and Royalists during the Civil War. The last time it was used as a prison was during the Civil War.
Notable Events and Secrets
Queen Elizabeth II’s Experience
During World War II, the royal family, including Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret, were forced to hide in the dungeon due to bomb scares. The girls would head to the underground dungeons when there was a threat, and the castle underwent significant changes to protect its antiques and furniture.
Secret Passageway
Windsor Castle has a secret passageway that leads directly to the Inner Hall. This passageway, hidden behind a wooden trapdoor, was used to escape from the castle in the 1200s and was designed to allow a whole army to enter and exit.
Ghost Stories
Windsor Castle is said to be haunted by the ghosts of King Henry VIII and his second wife, Anne Boleyn. Guests have reported hearing the King’s moans and groans and have seen the apparition of a large, anxious, angry man pacing and shouting in the halls.
Visiting the Dungeons
Accessibility
The Curfew Tower, which contains the dungeon, is not open to visitors to the castle. However, weddings and events are held there, which may provide an opportunity to see the dungeons up close.
Guided Tours
Windsor Castle offers guided tours, including a multimedia guide that provides a lively guide to the Castle’s history. The tour is introduced by His Majesty The King and takes you through the Castle Precincts, the State Apartments, and St George’s Chapel.
Specialized Tours
The castle also offers specialized tours, such as a family multimedia tour aimed at children aged 7-11 and a tour for blind and partially-sighted visitors.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Windsor Castle is open to visitors throughout the year. The State Apartments and St George’s Chapel are open from 9:30 am to 4:15 pm, while the Castle Precincts are open from 9:30 am to 5:15 pm.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and the type of ticket. Standard admission prices range from £15.50 to £24.50 for adults, with concessions available for children, students, and seniors.
Accessibility
Windsor Castle is accessible, with concessionary rates available for visitors with disabilities. The castle offers a free access companion ticket, which can be booked online.
References
- Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle
- RD. (2024, March 13). 17 Wild Secrets You Never Knew About Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.rd.com/list/secrets-windsor-castle/
- Tripoto. (n.d.). Windsor Castle and its secrets. Retrieved from https://www.tripoto.com/canada/trips/windsor-castle-and-its-secrets-3a74a1fec201672f1
- Slow Travel. (2023, August 5). Real Dungeons you can visit in the UK. Retrieved from https://www.slow-travel.uk/post/real-dungeons-you-can-visit-in-the-uk
- Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Practical Information for visiting Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/practical-information-for-visiting-windsor-castle