Windsor Tours

Exciting day trips from London to royal Windsor Castle.

Castle Overview

Discover 1000-year-old residence of British monarchs.

Itinerary Details

Morning departure from London, full-day exploration, evening return.

Top Attractions

State Apartments, St. George's Chapel, and beautiful grounds.

Tour Features

Expert guides, comfortable coach, optional lunch included.

Book Now

Secure your spot for unforgettable Windsor adventure from London.

Best Tours to Windsor Castle from London 2025

Tours to Windsor Castle from London: Your Ultimate Guide

Embarking on tours to Windsor Castle from London offers a perfect escape from the bustling capital, immersing you in over 1,000 years of royal history. As one of the oldest and largest occupied castles in the world, Windsor Castle stands as a symbol of British monarchy, home to King Charles III and a treasure trove of artifacts and architecture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family traveler, or simply seeking a scenic day trip, these tours provide convenient access to this iconic landmark just 25 miles west of London. For broader inspiration on exploring the city’s royal heritage, consider resources from Visit London to plan complementary experiences upon your return.

For those planning tours to Windsor Castle from London, options abound, from self-guided train journeys to luxurious private black cab experiences. London Sightseeing Taxi Tours specializes in bespoke private tours around London landmarks in authentic black cabs, ensuring a comfortable and personalized visit. Contact them at londonsightseeingtaxitours.com, info@londonsightseeingtaxitours.com, or 020 7240 7427 to book your adventure. To compare with other guided options, platforms like Viator offer a variety of tour packages tailored for visitors seeking authentic London day trips.

History of Windsor Castle: A Royal Legacy

Windsor Castle’s story begins in 1070 when William the Conqueror ordered its construction as a wooden motte-and-bailey fortress to oversee the River Thames and assert Norman control. Over centuries, it evolved from a defensive structure into a grand royal residence, rebuilt in stone by Henry II in the 12th century and expanded by subsequent monarchs. Edward III transformed it into a Gothic palace in the 14th century, while Charles II’s baroque renovations in the 17th century created the opulent State Apartments, often called an ‘English Versailles’. This architectural evolution mirrors the broader development of British royal sites, much like the historic palaces managed by organizations detailed on Historic Royal Palaces.

Throughout history, Windsor has been a refuge for the royals, notably during World War II when the family sought safety from Luftwaffe bombings under George VI. It’s the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II in St. George’s Chapel and hosts key events like the Order of the Garter ceremonies. Recently, on November 11, 2025, King Charles III and Prince William hosted a poignant Remembrance reception at Windsor Castle to honor WWII veterans on the 80th anniversary of the war’s end in the Far East, highlighting the castle’s ongoing role in national commemorations. Such events underscore Windsor’s connection to modern British history, akin to wartime exhibits found at sites like the Imperial War Museum London. Today, it remains a working palace, blending medieval origins with modern royal life.

When considering tours to Windsor Castle from London, understanding this rich tapestry enhances the experience. Guided tours often highlight these historical milestones, making the journey educational and engaging for all ages, while drawing parallels to London’s own storied past as explored in guides from Lonely Planet.

How to Get to Windsor Castle from London

Traveling for tours to Windsor Castle from London is straightforward, with multiple options to suit different budgets and preferences. The distance is about 25 miles, taking roughly 30-60 minutes depending on the mode of transport. Navigating London’s transport network efficiently can make your trip smoother, with resources from Transport for London providing updates on rail and bus services that connect to Windsor routes.

By Train: The quickest public option is from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central via Slough, a 30-minute ride with frequent services. Alternatively, direct trains from London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside take about 55 minutes. Stations are a short walk from the castle, though the hill can be steep. For historical context on London’s rail system, the London Transport Museum offers insights into the infrastructure supporting such journeys.
By Coach or Bus: Green Line 702 coaches depart from Victoria Coach Station, offering affordable scenic rides in about an hour. Organized coach tours provide direct drop-off near the entrance, ideal for first-timers. For more on combining this with other attractions like Stonehenge and Bath tours from London, check specialized options, and explore bus tour inspirations from Time Out London.
Private Transfers: For a premium experience, opt for private black cab tours. London Sightseeing Taxi Tours offers door-to-door service in iconic London black cabs, combining comfort with insider knowledge of the route. Explore their dedicated Windsor tour package for seamless planning, or review top tour recommendations via Evening Standard.

No matter your choice, book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid queues and ensure a hassle-free start to your adventure.

Best Tours to Windsor Castle from London

Selecting the right tour among the myriad tours to Windsor Castle from London can elevate your visit. From half-day escapes to full-day combinations, here’s a breakdown, with 2025 options emphasizing enhanced accessibility and guided insights. For additional tour ideas that complement your Windsor trip, sites like TripAdvisor list highly rated experiences starting from the capital.

Half-Day Tours

Perfect for short visits, half-day tours to Windsor Castle from London typically last 4-5 hours. Departing from central London like Victoria or Earls Court, these include coach transport and entry tickets. Explore the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel at your pace, with options for audio guides in multiple languages. Prices start at £89 per adult, offering great value, and many now feature live commentary for a more immersive journey, allowing you to connect the castle’s stories with London’s own cultural tapestry as highlighted in Condé Nast Traveler.

Full-Day Combination Tours

For a fuller experience, full-day tours to Windsor Castle from London often pair the castle with Stonehenge or Bath. A popular itinerary: morning at Windsor, afternoon at Stonehenge, returning by evening. These 9-11 hour tours include expert guides and meals, costing from £89. Discover tailored Stonehenge tours from London that can be bundled for comprehensive day trips, enhancing your understanding of England’s historical sites.

Private and Luxury Tours

London Sightseeing Taxi Tours excels in private tours to Windsor Castle from London, using black cabs for up to 5 passengers. Enjoy flexible schedules, skip-the-line access, and personalized narratives from knowledgeable drivers. Ideal for families or small groups, these tours include hotel pick-up and can extend to nearby Eton College. Their 6-hour Windsor Private Black Cab Tour, priced at £99.60 per person for groups of 6, covers the castle exterior, Eton, and Thames views, with wheelchair accessibility. Book via their bespoke experiences page for exclusive deals. Luxury seekers might also appreciate bespoke options inspired by London’s premier attractions listed on Frommer’s.

Other luxury options include chauffeured visits with audio tours, focusing on the castle’s highlights without crowds, providing a refined way to appreciate its grandeur.

What to See and Do at Windsor Castle

Inside Windsor Castle, attractions abound, making it a highlight of any tours to Windsor Castle from London. Allow 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the site, especially with recent events underscoring its living history. To deepen your appreciation, compare it with other royal exhibits in London via The National Gallery, which often features works connected to British monarchy.

State Apartments

The opulent State Apartments showcase royal grandeur with crimson walls, chandeliers, and treasures like the Waterloo Chamber’s portraits of generals. No photos allowed, but the splendor is unforgettable, evoking the artistic patronage seen in London’s galleries.

Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House

This 1:12 scale masterpiece, created in 1924, features working plumbing and electricity, crafted by 1,500 artisans. It’s a whimsical yet intricate display of early 20th-century craftsmanship, mirroring the detailed exhibits at places like the Museum of London.

St. George’s Chapel

Home to the Knights of the Garter, this Gothic chapel holds the tombs of monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II. Its fan-vaulted ceiling and stained glass are breathtaking. Note closures on Sundays for services, and its role in recent commemorations like the November 2025 Remembrance event, adding layers of contemporary significance.

The Grounds and Changing of the Guard

Stroll the 13-acre grounds, including the Long Walk. Catch the Changing of the Guard at 11 am on select days (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays), a ceremonial spectacle with marching bands that rivals London’s own traditions.

Beyond the castle, explore Windsor’s charming town with shops, cafes, and the River Thames. For inspiration on other popular places to visit in London, consider extending your trip with additional sightseeing, such as markets and museums detailed on Visit England.

Tips for Your Tours to Windsor Castle from London

To maximize your tours to Windsor Castle from London, follow these expert tips, tailored to ensure a smooth and enriching outing.

Book Tickets Early: Windsor Castle entry is £30 for adults; advance purchase avoids long lines, especially in summer. Pair with transport for packages around £89, and check bundled deals on sites like The London Pass.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or early mornings beat crowds. Check for closures during royal events, such as the recent Remembrance activities in November 2025, to align your visit optimally.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, as the site involves stairs and uneven paths. Security checks are airport-style, so travel light and prepare for a secure entry process.
Accessibility: Wheelchair access is available, but some areas like St. George’s Chapel have steps. Private tours from London Sightseeing Taxi Tours can accommodate special needs, with fully accessible black cabs, ensuring inclusivity for all travelers.
Weather Prep: British weather is unpredictable; pack layers for outdoor sections, and consider indoor alternatives highlighted in seasonal guides from Rick Steves.

For families, trails for children aged 5-11 add fun with games and stories. Read customer reviews to see how families have enjoyed similar tours, and explore family-friendly London spots via National Trust.

Sample Itinerary for a Day Tour

Here’s a 9-hour tours to Windsor Castle from London itinerary using private black cab service from London Sightseeing Taxi Tours, designed for an efficient yet leisurely pace.

8:00 AM – Departure: Pick-up from your London hotel in a black cab. Enjoy scenic views along the M4 motorway, with commentary on passing landmarks.

9:00 AM – Arrival in Windsor: Brief town orientation, perhaps a stop at Eton College to admire its historic architecture.

9:30 AM – Castle Entry: Guided exploration of State Apartments, Dolls’ House, and Chapel, focusing on key highlights.

12:00 PM – Lunch: Dine at a local pub like The Duchess of Cambridge, savoring British fare such as roast beef or seasonal specials.

1:00 PM – Grounds and Guard: Watch the Changing of the Guard if scheduled, then relax in the gardens with views of the Thames.

3:00 PM – Optional Add-Ons: River cruise or shopping in Windsor. For more ideas, visit their London travel ideas section, or draw from broader London inspirations on TripSavvy.

4:00 PM – Return: Leisurely drive back to London, arriving by 5:00 PM, ready for evening plans in the city.

This customizable plan ensures a stress-free day, adaptable to 2025 schedules and personal preferences for an unforgettable royal outing.

Nearby Attractions to Enhance Your Tour

Extend your tours to Windsor Castle from London with these spots, creating a more comprehensive exploration of the region.

Eton College: Prestigious school opposite the castle, with tours of its chapel and cloisters, offering a glimpse into British educational heritage.
Legoland Windsor: Family-friendly theme park, 2 miles away, perfect for kids with rides and interactive exhibits.
Runnymede: Site of the Magna Carta signing, a short drive for history buffs interested in constitutional milestones.
Stonehenge: Combine in full-day tours for ancient mysteries, as offered in their Stonehenge tour from London, and connect to prehistoric sites via English Heritage resources (though specific to planning).

London Sightseeing Taxi Tours can tailor itineraries to include these, maximizing your time. Learn more about their about us page for company background, and for returning to London, check out hidden gems on Secret London.

Why Choose Private Tours with London Sightseeing Taxi Tours

Amidst various tours to Windsor Castle from London, private options stand out for exclusivity and convenience. London Sightseeing Taxi Tours uses licensed black cabs, symbols of London, for a authentic experience. Their drivers, experts in local history, provide engaging commentary en route and at the site, enriching your journey with anecdotes and facts.

Benefits include:

Personalized pacing, avoiding group rush and allowing time for photos or questions.
Comfortable, spacious vehicles for up to 5, with amenities for a pleasant ride.
Skip-the-line perks and flexible stops at viewpoints or cafes.
Safe, reliable service with full insurance, prioritizing your peace of mind.

Ideal for couples, families, or VIPs, these tours start at competitive rates. Visit their shop or call 020 7240 7427 to reserve. For seasonal options like London Christmas lights tours, they offer complementary experiences that tie into festive London vibes as covered by DesignMyNight.

Seasonal Considerations for Your Tours

Tours to Windsor Castle from London vary by season, each offering unique charms. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, with blooming gardens enhancing the scenic approach. Summer brings longer days but queues; winter features festive illuminations and shorter visits, including special events like the recent Remembrance reception, providing a cozy, atmospheric visit.

Check for events like Trooping the Colour or Christmas markets, which may affect access but add excitement. Private tours adapt to weather, with indoor focuses if needed. Explore their holiday season taxi tours for winter enhancements, and for year-round London event ideas, refer to Official London Theatre.

Visitor Experiences and Reviews

Travelers rave about tours to Windsor Castle from London, citing the castle’s majesty and ease of access. Many highlight the emotional impact of St. George’s Chapel post-Queen Elizabeth II, describing it as a moving tribute. Private tour users appreciate the black cab’s charm and driver’s insights, often noting the personalized touches that make the day special. See glowing customer reviews for firsthand accounts of Windsor trips, and compare with broader feedback on The Guardian.

Common tips: Arrive early for parking if driving, and try local cuisine like fish and chips nearby. For more on all things to do in London, their blog has additional insights, supplemented by comprehensive lists from Atlas Obscura.

Booking Your Tour: Next Steps

Ready for tours to Windsor Castle from London? Start with London Sightseeing Taxi Tours for a seamless experience. Their private black cab service ensures you focus on the wonders, not logistics. Email info@londonsightseeingtaxitours.com or dial 020 7240 7427 today. Visit contact us for quick inquiries, or browse additional tour aggregators like London Theatre Direct for related experiences.

In conclusion, Windsor Castle beckons with its timeless allure, and the right tour makes it accessible and memorable. Whether solo or with loved ones, this day trip promises royal enchantment, especially with 2025’s renewed focus on its ceremonial significance, seamlessly integrating with your overall London adventure.