Windsor Castle rises above the town of Windsor and has been a royal residence for almost 1,000 years. Inside, the State Apartments bring together ornate rooms, royal objects and works of art; St George’s Chapel adds medieval architecture and royal history to the visit. You can explore at your own pace with the included audio guide, then take in the castle’s outdoor spaces. Allow several hours to see the main areas. If time is short, choose the apartments and chapel over Queen Mary’s Doll’s House, where queues can be long.
A royal residence with a long history
William the Conqueror chose the site for a fortress in the 11th century, on high ground above the River Thames. Over the centuries, monarchs strengthened and altered the castle, adapting it from a defensive stronghold into a royal residence. It has been a home for British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years and remains a working royal palace.
The castle is a large complex of buildings and courtyards, with chapels and royal apartments. Its position above Windsor makes it a prominent part of the town. The grounds and buildings have changed under successive monarchs, so the visit brings together different periods of royal history rather than one single architectural style.
Inside the State Apartments
The State Apartments are among the main reasons to go inside. Rooms used for official occasions are decorated with fine art, furniture and other royal treasures. The collection includes paintings by Holbein, Rubens and Van Dyck, along with Sèvres porcelain and English and French furniture.
An audio guide is included and lets you move through the apartments at your own pace. It adds context to the rooms and objects as you explore. Photography is not permitted inside the castle, so plan to enjoy the interiors without taking pictures. Queen Mary’s Doll’s House is another notable display. It can draw a queue, so make time for it near the start if it is a priority.
St George’s Chapel and access around the castle
St George’s Chapel is part of the castle visit and is known for its Gothic architecture and royal connections. It is a place of worship as well as a historic site, and royal weddings have taken place there. Queen Elizabeth II is buried in the chapel, which also contains the tombs of other monarchs.
The chapel welcomes people attending services on Sundays, but sightseeing access to some areas may be limited during worship. Check the chapel’s visiting arrangements before making a special trip for it. Visitors can also use the castle’s outdoor areas as part of their visit.
Step-free access is available in parts of the castle, and lifts serve the State Apartments and Semi-State Rooms. The castle is on a steep hill, and the site involves covering long distances. Mobility scooters are permitted in the precincts and inside the castle if they can use the lifts. Wheelchairs are available, and ramped entry is provided through the Access Entrance in Engine Court.
Preguntas frecuentes
How long do you need at Windsor Castle?
Allow several hours to explore the main areas, including the State Apartments and St George’s Chapel.
Is an audio guide included?
Yes. An audio guide is included and can be used as you explore the castle.
Can you take photos inside Windsor Castle?
Photography is not permitted inside the castle.
Is St George’s Chapel open to general visitors on Sundays?
Sightseeing may be restricted in parts of the chapel during Sunday services. Worshippers are welcome to attend Mass.
Is Windsor Castle accessible for wheelchair users?
Step-free access is available in parts of the castle, with ramped entry at Engine Court and lifts to the State Apartments and Semi-State Rooms. The hill and long distances around the site are worth considering when planning your visit.
