Nestled in the heart of Windsor, England, the iconic Windsor Castle stands as a testament to the grandeur and history of the British monarchy. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, the castle’s grounds offer a wealth of experiences for visitors to explore. From the awe-inspiring St George’s Chapel to the meticulously curated State Apartments, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the top things to see and do at Windsor Castle Grounds.
Top Things to See and Do at Windsor Castle Grounds
1. St George’s Chapel
Step into the hallowed halls of St George’s Chapel, a 500-year-old medieval marvel that has witnessed numerous royal weddings, including the recent union of HRH Princess Eugenie and Mr Jack Brooksbank. Open to visitors on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, this architectural gem offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of British history.
2. State Apartments
Explore the ceremonial rooms of the State Apartments, where the Royal Family hosts official visits by Heads of State from other countries, investitures, and awards ceremonies. Marvel at the historic rooms built for Charles II and his Queen, Catherine of Braganza, and admire the finest works of art from the Royal Collection.
3. Changing of the Guard
Witness the colorful ceremony of the Changing of the Guard, where the new guard replaces the old. This captivating display can be observed by Castle visitors on Thursdays and Saturdays.
4. Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House
Step into the world of Edwardian opulence with a visit to Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, a perfect replica of an Edwardian residence, complete with electricity, working lifts, and running water. Admire the contributions from over 1,500 of the finest artists, craftspeople, and manufacturers of the day.
5. Semi-State Rooms
During the winter months, explore the richly decorated private apartments that were severely damaged by the fire of 1992 and have been meticulously restored to their 19th-century appearance using the original designs supplied to George IV.
Best Times to Visit Windsor Castle Grounds to Avoid Crowds
To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful visit, consider the following tips:
- Avoid weekends: Visitor numbers are higher at weekends than during the week, so plan your visit for a weekday if possible.
- Visit after lunch: If you’re an independent visitor during the summer months, consider visiting the other attractions of Windsor & Eton during the morning and then visiting the castle after lunch to avoid the morning rush.
Rules and Restrictions for Visiting Windsor Castle Grounds
When planning your visit to Windsor Castle Grounds, keep the following rules and restrictions in mind:
- Dress code: There is no specific dress code, but visitors are expected to dress appropriately for a royal residence.
- Security: Be prepared for security checks, and avoid bringing large bags or luggage.
- Accessibility: Windsor Castle is accessible, with concessionary rates available for visitors with disabilities. However, the castle is situated at the top of a steep hill, and long distances have to be covered, so plan accordingly.
Practical Information
To make the most of your visit to Windsor Castle Grounds, consider the following practical information:
- Opening Hours: Windsor 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).
- Tickets: Book tickets in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak times. You can book tickets through the Royal Collection Trust website or through Visit Britain.
- Duration of Visit: Plan for at least 2.5 to 3 hours to see everything, although the official Windsor Castle website suggests three hours or more.
Additional Tips
To enhance your visit to Windsor Castle Grounds, consider the following additional tips:
- Audio Guides: Use the audio guides available to get more information about the Castle and its history.
- Family Activities: Take advantage of the free trails for children aged 5-11 and other family-friendly activities available during local school holidays.
- Food and Drink: Visit the Undercroft Café, located in one of the oldest surviving spaces of the Castle, for a break.
Reference Links
- https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle/top-things-to-see-and-do-at-windsor-castle
- https://www.windsor.gov.uk/things-to-do/windsor-castle-p43983
- https://www.londontoolkit.com/whattodo/windsor_castle.htm
- https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle
- https://thetourguy.com/travel-blog/england/london/windsor-castle/how-to-visit-windsor-castle-this-year/