Windsor Castle, nestled in Berkshire, England, is a timeless symbol of royal and architectural heritage. With a history spanning nearly 1,000 years, it has housed 40 monarchs and remains an official residence of King Charles III. A visit to this magnificent masterpiece is a journey through centuries of grandeur and history.
Background of Windsor Castle
The Windsor Castle was originally a motte-and-bailey fortress constructed by William the Conqueror in the 11th century as a Norman stronghold. Later, it was turned into the grand palace it came to be known as. Since the reign of Henry I, it has served as the longest-occupied royal residence in Europe.
Overlooking the River Thames, it has a strategic position that helped the royals survive crucial historical moments, such as the siege during the First Barons’ War.
Under the reigns of monarchs Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, it became a well-known diplomatic hub. The castle was a safe haven for both father and daughter, with Henry VIII actually buried at the site. Although Elizabeth I is buried at Westminster Abbey, it’s said her ghost still roams the corridors at Windsor today. It became a Baroque masterpiece when Charles II was on the throne, and the likes of Henry III and Edward III added lavish palaces too, expanding it further, so you could say the castle has been a bit of a chameleon under all of its inhabitants reign over the centuries.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, George III and George IV also renovated it extensively. The castle became a focal point for the royals after Queen Victoria ascended the throne and During World War II, the royal family took refuge here. In 1992, after a major fire, it was restored extensively to re-achieve its lost splendour.
How can you get to Windsor Castle?
Windsor Castle stands about 25 miles west of central London, at Windsor, in the Berkshire county of England. It is well connected with all parts of London. You get here in various ways:
- By air: Heathrow airport is near to Windsor. Terminals 1 – 5 are around 20–25 minutes driving distance away.
- By train: From Windsor and Eton Riverside, you can reach the castle by walking for 5 minutes. From Windsor and Eton Central, it is just a 2-minute walk to the castle.
- By bus: Bus routes 8, 2, 4, and 7/N7 offer frequent, air-conditioned shuttle services—connecting Windsor, Slough, Maidenhead, and Heathrow Airport.
- By taxi: Local taxi services are available.
- By cycle: You can explore the Windsor area by cycle, with two local companies offering road bikes and hybrid bikes for hire.
What to expect when you visit Windsor Castle?
Here are some of the highlights of the castle that you can see:
- State Apartments: You can explore stunning art and luxury in the grand ceremonial rooms, including The Queen’s Drawing Room. In the Grand Reception Room, guests can awe at the lavish space decked with real gold and chandeliers.
- Semi-State Rooms: With lavish décor, the historic Semi-State Rooms of the Castle were used for private royal gatherings. These exquisite rooms have intricate designs and furnishings.
- Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House: You will be awestruck at the Edwardian miniature masterpieces with working lights, small furniture, books, plumbing, and skilfully designed pieces. Sir Edwin Lutyens designed The Dolls’ House for Queen Mary in 1924.
- Moat Room: You can discover the history of Windsor Castle through exhibits in the Moat Room.
- St George’s Chapel: The site of royal weddings and burials, this masterpiece also consists of the tombs of notable monarchs like Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth II, and Charles I.
- Treasures of the Castle: Guests can see priceless artefacts here, including artwork and historic relics. These are preserved within the remarkable collection of this castle.
- World-famous paintings: When you visit the castle, you can rummage through the world’s best paintings by Van Dyck, Hans Holbein, and Rubens. The mastery of these artists is matchless, and the impeccable portrait by Anthony Van Dyck of King Charles I is something you should not miss.
If you are a lover of mythical ceiling paintings, then you are in for a visual treat.
The colossal castle with its 1000-year-old history is often frequented by locals and travel lovers who love to dig into the royal British history and opulence of Windsor Castle. There is much to see and explore at the oldest castle in London.
What else can you do when you visit Windsor Castle?
Once your visit is over and if you feel like soaking in more history, here are the top things that you can do in Windsor:
- Windsor & Royal Borough Museum: Check out this family-friendly museum to explore interactive displays and learn many interesting facts.
- Windsor Great Park: Spread over thousands of acres, this royal landscape of gardens, lakes, grasslands, and forests is a sight for sore eyes.
- Theatre Royal Windsor: This historic Edwardian theatre between the River Thames and Windsor Castle is the perfect destination for matinees.
- Watch the Guard March: It’s quite something to watch the King’s guard march to and from the castle in the morning. The march occurs only on particular days of the week. Without knowing about the Guard March schedule, you may be left disappointed.
- Guided tour of Windsor Guildhall: It can help you know more about the royals and how much this Grade I listed building is important for the local heritage of Windsor.
Some quick tips for visitors:
- To satiate your urge to know more about the colossal castle, you need at least 2 hours. So, plan your schedule and trip accordingly.
- You must walk a lot and cover long distances to see and explore it all. The London Castle is at the top of a steep hill, and you need comfortable shoes to make your journey less tiresome.
- If you have decided to visit St George’s Chapel, ensure you get there by 4 pm.
- Once you arrive, you must go through the security checking and screening process.
- You may carry the handbags but don’t carry large suitcases and heavy luggage, as you can be denied permission to take those inside.
- Pushchairs and large backpacks will not be allowed in the State Apartments. There is a secure cloakroom for keeping your belongings.
FAQs
- What are the operational hours of the castle?
Windsor Castle is operational from 10 am to 5:15 pm from March to October, with the last admission of the day being allowed at 4 pm. The hours of operation are shorter, 10 am – 4:15 pm daily, with no more visitors admitted after 3 pm.
- When does Windsor Castle stay closed?
On every Tuesday and Wednesday, the Castle is closed. Every year, there are many provisional closure dates. Before each visit, you should check The Royal Collection Trust website.
- Can I get refreshments here?
Sure. You can have tea and yummy cake at one of the oldest places in the Castle, the Undercroft Café. Relax and unwind with proper British fare.
- Did Queen Victoria live at this castle?
Yes, she used to spend most of her year at Windsor Castle.
Today, Windsor Castle is a symbol of royal heritage, state events, and tourism. Windsor Castle, a regal British heritage, is the oldest and largest inhabited castle. It remains a working royal residence and a stunning attraction. With so many things to soak in, explore, and enjoy, visitors can browse through centuries of monarchy and all things royal and grand.
So, for a memorable journey through time, history, and British culture, a visit to this castle should be on your travel bucket list.