The Windsor Castle VIP Tour offers a unique and exclusive experience for visitors, allowing them to explore the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle with the guidance of a knowledgeable historian or expert. This tour provides a comprehensive and in-depth look at the castle’s rich history, stunning architecture, and royal treasures.
Overview of the Windsor Castle VIP Tour
The Windsor Castle VIP Tour typically lasts around 3.5 hours, including travel time from London to Windsor and back. The tour is led by a private guide who provides detailed insights and explanations throughout the experience.
Key Details:
- Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
- Private Guide: Historian or expert guide
- Entrance Fees Included: Priority access tickets to Windsor Castle
Highlights of the Windsor Castle VIP Tour
The Windsor Castle VIP Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the castle’s most significant and fascinating features. Visitors will have the opportunity to:
1. Explore Windsor Castle
Discover the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, which has been a royal residence for nearly 1,000 years. Marvel at the castle’s impressive architecture and learn about its rich history.
2. Visit the State Apartments
Step inside the grand State Apartments, which have been used for royal gatherings and diplomatic events throughout the centuries. Admire the opulent furnishings and artwork that adorn these magnificent rooms.
3. Explore St. George’s Chapel
Uncover the history of the historic St. George’s Chapel, which has been the site of numerous royal weddings and other significant events.
4. Climb the Round Tower
Ascend the iconic Round Tower and learn about its strategic significance and the treasures it has housed over the years.
Logistics and Booking
Visitors can travel from London to Windsor independently by train, with an optional car service available for an additional fee. Lunch is not included in the standard tour, but can be arranged separately.
Booking and Pricing:
- Cost: Prices vary depending on the tour provider and the number of guests. For example, a private tour for 1-2 people can cost around £845 by fast train or £1045 by car.
- Booking: Bookings can be made through various tour operators, such as Context Travel, Royal Collection Trust, or London Magical Tours.
Special Options and Accessibility
The Windsor Castle VIP Tour offers a few special options for visitors, including an exclusive after-hours tour of the castle’s State Rooms for a premium price. Additionally, some tour operators offer free access companion tickets for disabled visitors.
Special Options:
- VVIP Experience: Exclusive after-hours tour of the State Rooms, starting at £2500 per group.
- Extensions: Optional visits to Eton, Runnymede, and Stonehenge can be arranged for an additional fee.
Accessibility:
- Some tour operators offer free access companion tickets for disabled visitors.
Reviews and Ratings
The Windsor Castle VIP Tour has received excellent reviews from previous guests, who have praised the guides’ knowledge and the overall experience. Visitors have consistently highlighted the tour’s ability to provide a unique and immersive look into the castle’s history and significance.
References
- Context Travel. (n.d.). Windsor Castle Tour – Excursion with a Historian. Retrieved from https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/london/tours/windsor-castle-excursion
- Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Private Guided Tour of Windsor Castle for groups. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/event/private-guided-tour-of-windsor-castle-for-groups-01-2024
- London Magical Tours. (n.d.). Private Windsor Tours. Retrieved from https://www.londonmagicaltours.com/windsor_tours_themagicalwindsortour
- Private London Tours. (n.d.). Windsor Castle Private Tour. Retrieved from https://privatelondon.tours/tour/private-windsor-castle-tour-guide-from-london/
- Royal Collection Trust. (n.d.). Private Guided Tour of Windsor Castle for groups 2022. Retrieved from https://www.rct.uk/event/private-guided-tour-of-windsor-castle-for-groups-2022-01-2022.