Traveling from Kensington to Windsor Castle by train is a convenient and scenic way to explore one of the most iconic royal residences in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re a history buff, a castle enthusiast, or simply looking for a day trip from London, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your journey.
The Cheapest Way: South Western Railway (SWR) from London Waterloo
The most budget-friendly option to get from Kensington to Windsor Castle by train is to take the South Western Railway (SWR) service from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside station. This journey typically takes around 55 minutes and can cost between £9 and £55, depending on the time of day and the type of ticket you choose.
The Quickest Way: London Paddington to Slough, then Great Western Railway (GWR) to Windsor
If you’re looking to reach Windsor Castle as quickly as possible, the fastest route is to take the train from London Paddington to Slough, and then change to a Great Western Railway (GWR) train to Windsor & Eton Riverside station. This journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
Train Stations in Windsor
There are two main train stations in Windsor that serve Windsor Castle: Windsor & Eton Riverside and Windsor & Eton Central. Both stations are within a 10-minute walk of the castle, so you can easily access the attraction from either location.
Ticket Options
When planning your journey from Kensington to Windsor Castle by train, you have several ticket options to consider:
| Ticket Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Advance Tickets | Book your tickets in advance for cheaper fares. |
| Anytime Tickets | Flexible tickets with no time restrictions. |
| Off-Peak Tickets | Cheaper tickets for travel during off-peak hours. |
| GroupSave Tickets | Discounts for groups of 3-9 people. |
| Railcards | Discounts for specific groups, such as students and seniors. |
Additional Tips
To make the most of your trip from Kensington to Windsor Castle, consider the following tips:
- Book Castle Tickets Early: To avoid crowds and ensure you can access the castle, book your tickets for Windsor Castle in advance.
- Avoid Weekends: Windsor is generally busier on weekends, so consider visiting during the week for a more relaxed experience.
- Plan for Industrial Action: Check for any planned rail strikes and have a backup plan, such as using the Elizabeth Line and a taxi from Slough.
Conclusion
Traveling from Kensington to Windsor Castle by train is a convenient and enjoyable way to explore one of the UK’s most iconic royal residences. Whether you choose the cheapest or the quickest route, you’ll be able to experience the grandeur of Windsor Castle and its beautiful surroundings. Remember to plan ahead, book your tickets in advance, and be prepared for any potential disruptions to your journey.
References
- South Western Railway. (n.d.). Trains to Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.southwesternrailway.com/destinations-and-offers/sights-and-attractions/trains-to-windsor-castle
- Rome2rio. (n.d.). South Kensington to Windsor Castle. Retrieved from https://www.rome2rio.com/s/South-Kensington-England/Windsor-Castle
- Rick Steves. (2023). How to get from South Kensington to Windsor. Retrieved from https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/england/how-to-get-from-south-kensington-to-windsor
- Tourist England. (n.d.). How to travel to Windsor Castle from London. Retrieved from https://www.touristengland.com/travel-windsor-castle-london/
- Fodors. (2023). Getting from South Kensington to Windsor. Retrieved from https://www.fodors.com/community/europe/getting-from-south-kensington-to-windsor-1715049/.