Windsor Castle, one of the most iconic royal residences in the United Kingdom, attracts millions of visitors each year. Navigating the parking options and transportation choices can be a crucial part of planning your visit to this magnificent landmark. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various bus parking and tour options available to ensure your Windsor Castle experience is seamless and enjoyable.
Main Entrance and Parking Facility
The primary parking facility for Windsor Castle is located on Jericho Road, off Cedar Street. This conveniently situated car park is accessible from the historic downtown area via the Mason Street Bridge. Visitors can easily reach the castle’s main entrance from this parking location, making it a popular choice for those arriving by car.
Long-Stay Car Parks
For those seeking the best value for all-day parking, the long-stay car parks in Windsor are an excellent option. These car parks are situated within a 10-minute walk to both Windsor Castle and the town centre, providing easy access to the castle and the surrounding attractions.
Multi-Storey Car Parks
In addition to the main parking facility and long-stay options, Windsor also offers several multi-storey car parks. These include the car park on Peascod Street, which provides convenient access to the castle and the town’s shopping and dining districts.
Coach Park
For visitors arriving by coach or bus, there is a dedicated coach park located at Alma Road, Windsor SL4 3HY. This facility offers 74 spaces and is open for overnight parking, with entry allowed until 6:30 pm and exit at any time.
Guided Bus Tours
If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, Windsor Castle offers several guided bus tour options:
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Legoland Shuttle Service: This shuttle service operates between the Windsor town centre and the nearby Legoland theme park, making it a convenient choice for those visiting both attractions.
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Park and Ride Facilities: Windsor has several park and ride facilities, including those at Legoland, Home Park, Romney Lock, and King Edward VII car parks. Visitors can park their cars at these locations and catch a bus into the town centre, which is just a short walk from the castle.
Additional Considerations
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Traffic and Road Closures: Be mindful of the Guard March schedule, which may cause temporary traffic stops between 10:45 am and 11:30 am. Plan your arrival accordingly to avoid any disruptions.
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Parking Charges: Parking charges vary by car park and time of day. Payment options include cash, credit/debit card, and the RingGo mobile app.
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Accessibility: Disabled parking bays are available in the council-run car parks. Blue Badge holders can park free of charge in these designated spaces.
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Alternative Transportation: For those who prefer not to drive, consider taking the train from Paddington station to Windsor. The castle is just a 7-minute walk from the train station.
By understanding the various parking and transportation options available, you can ensure a seamless and stress-free visit to the magnificent Windsor Castle. Whether you choose to drive and park, take a guided bus tour, or utilize the park and ride facilities, this guide will help you navigate the logistics and make the most of your castles touring experience.