Windsor Castle Tickets – Prices, Discounts & Opening Times

Do I need a ticket to see Windsor Castle?

You need a ticket to get anywhere inside the grounds of Windsor Castle. Of course, you can get up close to the castle from the town centre, but the castle’s richness is within its walls – not outside. The ticket for Windsor Castle gives you access to all the fantastic attractions within the walls, and also what’s hanging on the walls! You can visit the state apartments, the moat room and one of the most popular attractions, which is Queen Mary’s Dolls House. Finally, you also get access to the cafe located in the castle to relax and unwind in the history.

What’s included in the admission price of a Windsor Castle ticket?

• First and foremost, you will get to see inside the walls of Windsor Castle and have a chance to walk around the quadrant.
• You will get access to a multimedia guide to help you on your tour around the Castle.
• See St George’s Chapel (except on Sunday)
• You will visit the State Apartments that the Royal Family frequently uses.
• Entry into the private apartments designed for Charles II and George VI.
• Visit the famous Queen Mary’s dolls house.
• Try out the Moat Room, where you can learn interactively all about the Castle’s history.
• Free access to the learning centre and participate in the pop-up workshops that again give a new way to learn about the history of Windsor Castle.
• Free access to the Undercroft cafe, where you can relax with some food and drink during your visit. A helpful note is that much of the food is sourced from the Royal Farms at Windsor.

A final useful note is that you can get a 1-year free re-admission on your ticket by asking guest services to convert your ticket to the 1-Year free pass. This means you can visit on multiple days during your stay in Windsor or just pop in another time for a cup of tea!

Is it better and cheaper to buy my tickets online before I travel?

There are many reasons why booking Windsor Castle tickets online before you travel is better. 

1. Save Time: You can avoid long lines at the ticket office and go straight to the castle’s entrance by booking online.
2. Save Money: Online booking often offers the chance for discount tickets, which can save you money on the ticket price you would pay if you purchased on the day at the Castle.
3. Guarantee Entrance: Online booking allows you to plan your visit and ensure you get the tickets for the date and time you prefer. Additionally, many online ticket providers offer mobile tickets, which means you can show your ticket on your phone, eliminating the need for paper tickets. 

Overall, booking Castle tickets before you travel is a convenient, cost-effective, and hassle-free way to plan your visit.

Do I need to pre-book tickets for the Castle?

Windsor Castle is one of the attractions that, more often than not, will stop selling on-the-day tickets in the morning. This is to prevent over-crowding in the rooms and for health and safety reasons. Therefore, we always recommend pre-booking your ticket before travelling. Should your plans change, you should be able to change the date or cancel for a refund as long as you give sufficient notice.

Is it possible to get 2 for 1 Windsor Castle Tickets?

Unfortunately, the highly sought-after 2-for-1 tickets to visit the Castle are no longer available, leaving visitors with limited options to enjoy discounted access. However, there is still hope for those seeking reduced prices, as StonehengeVisit.co.uk offers an exclusive opportunity to obtain discounted tickets. With our reliable and convenient online platform, StonehengeVisit.co.uk ensures that visitors can experience the grandeur of Windsor Castle while also enjoying significant savings. So, even though the 2-for-1 tickets may no longer be an option, we are still a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore Windsor Castle on a budget.

How long can I spend at Windsor Castle?

The opening time is 10:00 am, and the closing time is dependent upon the time of year, but it is either 5:15 pm or 4:15 pm. During this time, you can take as much time as you need in the castle; you can also take your time wandering around the rooms as there is no time limit on time spent in certain areas. You should be aware that this is one of the most popular attractions in England. The castle covers 13 acres and has many areas to explore, so it is best to dedicate at least a few hours to the visit. However, depending on your interests, you can easily spend half a day or more at Windsor Castle. Many guided tours are available, which can help you get the most out of your visit.

Can I see the State Apartments when visiting Windsor Castle?

The State Apartments are a must-see during any visit to this iconic royal residence. The State Apartments, which are open to the paying public and included in the admission ticket price, are a stunning display of the Royal Collection and provide a glimpse into the history and lifestyle of British royalty. Visitors can explore the sumptuous rooms, including the grand St George’s Hall, the elegant Crimson Drawing Room, and the stately Throne Room. These apartments are also the home to some of the finest works of art in the world, including paintings by Rembrandt and Rubens. Whether you’re a history buff or an art enthusiast, the state apartments of Windsor Castle are a must-see.

Is entrance to St George’s Chapel included in the ticket price?

Yes, entrance to St George’s Chapel is included when you have a ticket for Windsor Castle. St George’s Chapel is a historic royal chapel located within the castle grounds. The chapel is known for its Gothic architecture and its royal connections, as it is the final resting place of several kings and queens of England. The chapel was founded in the 14th century by King Edward III and has been a royal chapel ever since. It has been the site of many royal weddings, including the marriage of King Henry VIII to Catherine of Aragon in 1509 and of course, the recent wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018. Overall, St George’s Chapel has played a significant role in English history and continues to be an important part of Windsor Castle.

Will I get to see Queen Mary’s dolls house?

A visit to the Castle also presents a remarkable opportunity to explore not only the magnificent Castle itself but also a truly captivating attraction within its walls – Queen Mary’s Doll’s House. This miniature marvel, crafted with incredible attention to detail, showcases the work of the finest artists, craftsmen, and designers of its time. As a faithful replica of an aristocratic home, the Dolls House features exquisite furnishings, intricate decorations, and even a working elevator. Its popularity stems from the unique glimpse it offers into the opulent world of the British royal family, allowing visitors to marvel at the intricate craftsmanship and intricate details while appreciating the historical significance and artistic value of this remarkable miniature masterpiece.

Can you watch the Changing of the Guard for free?

This iconic ceremony takes place on the Castle’s magnificent grounds, drawing crowds from around the world to witness the spectacle. The precise choreography, resplendent uniforms, and stirring music create a captivating atmosphere that immerses spectators in a bygone era. The Changing of the Guard is a symbol of the monarchy’s continuity and the dedication of the British military. Visitors can witness the ceremonial exchange of duties between the old and new guards, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums and the melodious tunes of a military band. The experience of watching this age-old tradition unfold against the backdrop of Windsor Castle’s historic walls is an absolute delight. The Changing of the Guard typically takes place on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, starting at 11:00 AM, from April to July. And yes, it is free for all to watch.

Can you walk around the Castle for free?

You can walk around part of the outside of the Castle, as this is just off the main high street of Windsor town centre along side the River Thames. However, without a ticket, you will be unable to get inside the walls, state apartments or rooms of the oldes occupied castle that is Windsor Castle.

Can I get a London to Windsor Castle ticket?

Many sightseeing tour companies run trips from London to Windsor Castle and Stonehenge, including entrance tickets into Stonehenge. You can do this as a group at a very reasonable rate, or alternately you can find specialised tour companies that will run bespoke trips and guides just for you – although these are far more expensive. 

What are the opening and closing times for St George’s Chapel?

Generally the current opening and closing times are found below:

Monday to Saturday:

• Chapel opens at 10:00 AM
• Last entry at 4:00 PM
• Chapel closes at 4:15 PM

Sunday:

• Chapel is closed to visitors for worship services but opens to visitors after the services, usually from 1:00 PM onwards.

However, please note that these opening hours are subject to change and it is best to check on the day when you arrive to ensure you are clear on the precise opening and closing time.

Is there a discount for Students or Senior Citizens for Castle tickets?

There are discounts available for young people (up to the age of 24), and you dont need to show a student card just some form of ID with your age. There are no discounts available for adults over 65.

Do I have to get a ticket for Windsor Castle from the official website?

No, there are many different websites where you can purchase tickets. The Royal Collection Trust is the main one; however, you are already in the right place to get discount tickets that include entrance to St George’s Chapel where you can see Queen Elizabeth II’s memorial. 

When is the best time to visit Windsor Castle?

The best time to visit Windsor Castle will vary depending on your personal preferences and what you want to get from your trip to Windsor Castle. 

• History: If you are interested in history and want to see the castle in all its glory, the summer months of June to August are the best time to visit. During this time, the castle is accessible to the general public, and visitors can see the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, and the Queen’s Dolls’ House. 
• Changing of the Guard: For those who are interested in the Changing of the Guard ceremony, it takes place every day at 11:00 a.m. from April to July and every other day from August to March. If you want to avoid larger crowds, the best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the castle is less busy. 
• Christmas: Alternatively, if you want to see the castle decorated for Christmas, you can visit in December, when the castle is adorned with festive decorations and lights. 

Overall, the best time to visit Windsor Castle can be any time; it just depends on what you want to get from your trip.

How much of Windsor Castle can you see without a ticket?

Without a ticket, it is impossible to see any part of the inside of the Windsor Castle walls. Windsor Castle is a working royal residence and is not open to the public without an admission ticket. Visitors must purchase a ticket to enter the castle and see the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, and Queen Mary’s Dolls House. The grounds outside the Castle walls are open to the public without a ticket. So you can take a walk up the Long Walk (2 miles long) which runs from the Great Park to the entrance of Windsor Castle, which is a stunning walk.

Windsor Castle Closures

Please note that the Castle is closed to visitors on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Additionally, it’s important to be aware that access to the beautiful St. George’s Chapel is limited after 2:30 PM, so visitors should plan their visit accordingly.

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