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Windsor Castle

The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, the weekend home of the British monarch for 900 years.

Where
Windsor
Tickets
$40 adult
Round Tower of Windsor Castle rising above the Lower Ward Round Tower of Windsor Castle rising above the Lower Ward

What to expect at Windsor Castle

Begun by William the Conqueror around 1070 and continuously extended since, Windsor Castle covers 13 acres above the Thames and still functions as a working royal residence. Visitors tour the lavish State Apartments, Queen Mary's Dolls' House, St George's Chapel — burial place of Elizabeth II — and, when the monarch is not in residence, the semi-state rooms. The Changing of the Guard happens in the Lower Ward on selected mornings at 11:00, and it's included in your ticket.

Windsor is an easy day from Reading: two trains an hour via Slough, journey time about 25 minutes. If you want to stay closer, Windsor and Maidenhead have plenty of hotels, but honestly staying in central Reading and day-tripping is cheaper. Buy tickets online at least two days ahead — walk-up queues at the Henry VIII Gate can hit 45 minutes in summer. Get your ticket stamped at exit and you can return free for a year.

Plan your visit Tickets$40 adult WhereWindsor Opening hours Thu-Mon 10:00-17:15 (Mar-Oct) Thu-Mon 10:00-16:15 (Nov-Feb) Closed Tue and Wed Hotels near Windsor Castle

Questions about Windsor Castle

How much are Windsor Castle tickets?

$40 adult, $27 young person (18-24), $20 child (5-17), under-5s free. Family tickets $105.

Is Windsor Castle ever free?

No, but your ticket converts to a 1-year pass if stamped at exit — effectively free for return visits.

How long do you need at Windsor Castle?

Plan on 3-4 hours: State Apartments (75 min), St George's Chapel (45 min), grounds and Changing of the Guard (60 min).

What days is Windsor Castle closed?

Closed every Tuesday and Wednesday, plus Good Friday and 25-26 December.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes — book online via the Royal Collection Trust site. Same-day tickets sell out from May through September.

How do I get there from Reading?

Train from Reading to Slough (15 min), change for Windsor & Eton Central (6 min). Castle entrance is 3 minutes from the station.

Where to stay

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