Find the perfect stay near Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle stands as the oldest and largest occupied castle on the planet, having served as a royal home for over 1,000 years. Exploring the grand State Apartments gives you a real feel for palace life, especially when you spot the tiny details of the famous doll's house or the stone carvings in St George’s Chapel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site manages to feel surprisingly welcoming despite its massive size, offering a glimpse into centuries of British history right in the heart of town. You can spend hours wandering the grounds and watching the soldiers during the Changing of the Guard, making it a lovely day out for anyone who enjoys a bit of pageantry.

Finding a place where the royal family still spends their weekends gives you a real sense of living history. It is a massive complex that dominates the local skyline, so wearing comfortable shoes is a smart move for your visit.

Planning your visit and getting around

You should book your tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot, as an entry fee applies for all visitors. The site is generally open throughout the year, but since it is a working palace, it sometimes closes for official events. Please check the official landmark site for up-to-date information regarding opening hours, ticket availability, and seasonal closures.

Once you arrive at Windsor & Eton Central Station, it is only a 0 mile walk to the main entrance. The castle offers multimedia guides included with your ticket, and these usually take about 90 minutes to complete. If you want to see the Changing of the Guard, this usually happens at 11:00, though the schedule varies throughout the week. Most areas are accessible to wheelchair users, and you can borrow a manual wheelchair at the entrance. Allow at least 3 hours to see the main areas without rushing.

What to look for inside the walls

Walking through the State Apartments lets you see some of the finest works from the Royal Collection. You will find paintings by renowned artists and intricate woodcarvings decorating the rooms used for official ceremonies. The Grand Vestibule is a standout space, showcasing gifts given to monarchs over the centuries.

Do not miss Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, which is a perfect 1:12 scale replica of an aristocratic home. It even has running water and tiny working lifts. Another highlight is St George’s Chapel, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. It serves as the burial place for many former kings and queens. The Round Tower sits on a man-made hill and offers a clear view of the surrounding 3 mile Long Walk.

A look at the past

This fortress has stood above the River Thames for nearly 1,000 years. It was originally built in the 11th century to protect the western approach to London. Since then, it has been transformed from a defensive wooden fort into a stone palace by a long line of monarchs who each added their own architectural flair.

It holds a special distinction as the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Over the centuries, it survived sieges and a major fire in the 1990s, which led to a massive restoration project to return the rooms to their former glory. Today, it remains a primary residence for the British Sovereign and continues to host grand state banquets and official royal events.

Windsor Castle sits in a highly accessible location, surrounded by an excellent selection of local hotels and inns. Whether you choose to arrive by car or take the train, you will find the journey to this royal residence to be very efficient.

Where to stay in Windsor

Staying in the heart of the town centre puts you just a 0 miles stroll from the main entrance of Windsor Castle. This area is perfect if you enjoy boutique hotels tucked away in historic buildings or want to be steps away from local tea rooms and shops. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, look for accommodation near the River Thames. These spots are often family-friendly and offer lovely views, while still being within a 1 mile walk of the royal grounds. You will find a mix of high-end suites and cosy guesthouses that cater to all budgets right in the middle of the action.

Getting to the castle

You can reach the gates easily from Windsor & Eton Central Station, which is only a 0 miles or 5-min walk away. If you arrive at Windsor & Eton Riverside Station, it is a slightly longer but pleasant 10-min walk uphill to the castle. Both stations are well-connected to London, and the routes to the entrance are paved and accessible for those with prams or mobility needs.

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