Windsor Castle Visitor Center is an essential part of the Windsor Castle experience, providing visitors with a comprehensive introduction to the castle’s rich history and attractions. From the magnificent State Apartments to the awe-inspiring St George’s Chapel, the visitor center offers a wealth of information and interactive exhibits to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this iconic royal residence.
Top Attractions at Windsor Castle Visitor Center
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State Apartments: Step into the ceremonial rooms used by the Royal Family for official visits and admire the finest works of art from the Royal Collection, including paintings by renowned artists like Van Dyck and Rubens.
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Semi-State Rooms: Explore the richly decorated private apartments, open during the winter months, and discover the stunning 18th-century English and French works of art on display.
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Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: Marvel at the largest and most famous dolls’ house in the world, featuring contributions from over 1,500 artists, craftspeople, and manufacturers.
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St George’s Chapel: Visit the magnificent Gothic chapel, the burial place of 11 monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II, Henry VIII, and Charles I.
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Changing the Guard: Witness the iconic ceremony of the Changing of the Guard, where soldiers in their distinctive red uniforms parade outside the castle gates.
Accessibility Features at Windsor Castle Visitor Center
Windsor Castle Visitor Center is committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Concessionary Rates | Discounted tickets available for visitors with disabilities, along with a free access companion ticket. |
| Accessible Café and Toilets | Facilities designed for visitors with mobility needs. |
| Changing Places | A specialized facility available for visitors with specific requirements. |
| Multimedia Guide | Offered in British Sign Language (BSL) and with subtitles. |
Family-Friendly Experiences at Windsor Castle Visitor Center
The visitor center caters to families, offering a range of engaging activities and amenities:
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Family Activity Trails: Free trails available for children aged 7-11 to learn more about the castle in a fun and interactive way.
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Family Multimedia Guide: Features Scorch the dragon as a guide, with games and activities to keep young visitors entertained.
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Chill Out Zone: A quiet space for toddlers, complete with toys, books, and bean bags.
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Breastfeeding Friendly: The Learning Centre is a designated breastfeeding-friendly area.
Practical Information
To make the most of your visit to Windsor Castle Visitor Center, here are some essential details:
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Opening Hours: The castle is open from Thursday to Monday, with varying hours depending on the season.
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Ticket Prices: Prices range from £15.50 to £30, depending on the time of booking and age.
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Parking: Long stay parking is available, with a 20-minute walk saving 30% of normal short stay fees.
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Getting There: Visitors can use Park and Ride services from Legoland Windsor or Windsor Home Park.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and grandeur of Windsor Castle by exploring the visitor center, where you’ll find a wealth of information, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly activities to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this iconic royal residence.
References
- https://www.windsor.gov.uk/things-to-do/windsor-castle-p43983
- https://www.windsorcastle.co.uk
- https://royal-windsor.com/what-to-see/windsor-castle-tickets/
- https://www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle
- https://thetourguy.com/travel-blog/england/london/windsor-castle/how-to-visit-windsor-castle-this-year/