Windsor Castle — Best Activities & Things to Do (2025)
Discover the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle. Tour the State Apartments, visit St George’s Chapel, walk the Long Walk, and explore riverside Windsor & Eton. This guide highlights verified tours, top sights, and easy ticket options.
Top Experiences at Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle Admission
Timed entry to the State Apartments and Semi-State Rooms (selected dates), plus access to the grounds.
St George’s Chapel
See the Gothic chapel of the Order of the Garter and recent royal occasions (closed on Sundays for services).
Changing of the Guard (Windsor)
On selected days, watch Guards march through town to the Castle. Arrive early for the best curbside views.
Round Tower Views
Admire the iconic Round Tower from the lawns and town viewpoints; seasonal tower access is limited.
Audio-Guided Highlights
Use the included audio guide for context on royal apartments, furnishings, and the Castle’s 900-year story.
Day Trips from London
Combine Windsor with Stonehenge, Bath or Oxford on convenient coach tours including Castle tickets.
Things to Do Around Windsor & Eton
Windsor Great Park & Long Walk
Stroll the tree-lined avenue from the Copper Horse toward the Castle—classic photos in all seasons.
River Thames Paths
Enjoy riverside walks, boat trips and bridges with views back to the Castle’s towers and battlements.
Eton College
Cross Windsor Bridge to the historic college town; look for chapel tours and heritage buildings.
Windsor & Royal Shopping
Explore pedestrian streets, craft shops and cafés around Peascod Street and Windsor Royal Station.
Savill Garden (nearby)
A landscaped gem in Windsor Great Park—seasonal blooms, glasshouse, and peaceful woodland walks.
LEGOLAND® Windsor (family)
Theme park fun a short drive/bus from town—great add-on if you’re visiting with kids.
Which Windsor Castle Ticket Should You Choose?
Windsor Castle Admission Ticket
Includes State Apartments (when open), St George’s Chapel, precincts and audio guide. Timed entry manages crowds.
Half-Day Windsor from London
Coach travel + Castle ticket. Efficient if you want the essentials and time to explore town streets.
Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath
Full-day classic combining royal history, ancient mystery, and Georgian architecture (with options for Roman Baths).
Windsor, Oxford & Stonehenge
Visit the Castle, a world-famous university city, and the UNESCO stone circle in one curated day.
Tip: Mobile e-tickets are widely accepted. Many options offer free cancellation up to 24 hours—always confirm on the product page.
Food & Drink Near Windsor Castle
Afternoon Tea
Historic tea rooms and hotel lounges around the High Street—book weekends in advance.
Traditional Pubs
Find classic British fare and cask ales steps from the Castle and across the bridge in Eton.
Riverside Dining
Restaurants along the Thames offer views of boats and bridges—great at sunset in summer.
Coffee & Snacks
Independent cafés cluster around Windsor & Eton Central station for quick pre-tour bites.
Quick Visitor Tips
Best Time
Arrive early, especially in summer and school holidays. Weekdays are calmer than weekends.
Visit Duration
Castle & Chapel: ~2–3 hours. With town/river walk: ~4–5 hours. Full-day combos: 10–12 hours.
Chapel Hours
St George’s Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays (services only). Check times before you go.
Accessibility
Step-free routes and assistance available; some historic areas have uneven surfaces—wear comfy shoes.
From London
Direct trains from London Waterloo/Paddington (via Slough) to Windsor. Many tours include transport.
Photography
Exterior photos welcome; interior rules vary—always follow on-site guidance and signage.
Ready to Explore Windsor Castle?
Choose timed admission or a curated day trip, then add riverside walks, the Long Walk, and Eton for a perfect royal day out.
