windsor castle half day tour from london

The 7 Best Windsor Castle Tours From London 🏰 [2024 Reviews]

Constructed around 1,000 years ago, Windsor Castle understandably has quite the history (to say the least!). The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, it’s been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there.

If you’re going to be in London, it’s a historic icon that you absolutely must see – even if you aren’t particularly interested in the royal family.

We have the top Windsor Castle tours available, making sure you make the most of your time and money!

Best Tours Of Windsor Castle

Quick answer: the 7 best rated windsor castle tours for 2024.

• Best Half-Day Tour: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets From London
• Best Private Tour: Private Half-Day Tour of Windsor Castle
• Best Budget Tour: Royal Windsor Afternoon Tour from London From London
• Best Luxury Tour: Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London
• Best Small Group Tour: Private Windsor Castle And Eton Tour
• Best Day Tour: Windsor Castle Tour from London with Lunch
• Best Guided Tour: Afternoon Trip London to Windsor Castle

Be sure to see our reviews of Buckingham Palace tours , Downton Abbey tours and Thames River cruises .

Windsor Castle Tour Reviews

1. best half-day tour: half-day trip to windsor with castle tickets from london.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure:  Earls Court Underground Station
• Departure Time: 9:50 AM
• Includes:  Entrance to Windsor Castle,  Windsor Castle multimedia guide, r ound-trip transportation from London by luxury bus

This is one of the most popular tours from London, and if you’re in the city looking for an educational, fun tour this one is hard to beat. The From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets packs a ton in while still making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

If you’re looking to explore Windsor Castle and get some fresh air walking around the grounds, take a good look here!

There are various central London meetup points, ensuring it’s as convenient as possible for you. Choose the one that works best for you and head out west on a bus tour in the morning. If you have London plans in the evening, this won’t conflict at all!

The bus is quite comfortable, with nice, big windows to see the beautiful city and landscape views as you head to the historic town of Windsor.

Once you and the rest of your group arrive, you’ll be taken through and told all about the Queen’s official residence. There’s no need to rush, either – they make sure you can take it at your own pace.

From the Norman Invasion and its origins to present-day relevance, you’ll practically be an expert on the castle! The history is obviously very interesting, but the castle and surrounding area itself is also quite beautiful!

We highly recommend heading to the left once exiting the castle to take the “long walk”. It’s a great way to also get away for a moment from the hustle-and-bustle of lively London.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best private tour: private half-day tour of windsor castle.

• Duration: 5 hours
• Departure: Pickup included
• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Includes:  Air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, wi-fi on board, bottled water

While our other tours are certainly smaller ones for more personalized attention, this one is even more so. This 4-hour tour comes in the form of a private car service picking you up from your hotel and taking you to Windsor Castle in a comfortable Mercedes Benz.

If that sounds like a good time to you, check out the Windsor Castle Private Tour ! With a maximum group size of 4 people (plus the driver), you can be assured you’ll receive all the answers to your questions!

Considering the convenience and ability to learn so much with this model of tour, it’s surprising how affordable this one runs for. With such an accommodating, knowledgeable, attentive guide, it feels like a good friend is just taking you and showing you around Windsor!

As soon as you get in the vehicle, your guide will start telling you interesting facts and anecdotes about all the sites you see. You’ll even learn quite a bit about Windsor and Windsor Castle before you arrive!

This is the largest and oldest continuously-occupied castle in the world, and as one of the official royal residences of the Queen, it already draws a lot of interest.

Walk around and see St. George’s Chapel, which is over 500 years old and has been the place of many significant events throughout history.

Check out inside the castle, where the State Apartments sit and have been used to house important guests throughout these over 900 years. Not to mention, all of the beautiful furniture, tapestries, artwork, and more!

Search For Other London Experiences You May Enjoy

3. best budget tour: royal windsor afternoon tour from london.

• Duration: 7 hours
• Departure: Evan Evans Office 258 Vauxhall Bridge Road
• Departure Time:  1:00 PM
• Includes:   Entry to Windsor Castle,  English-speaking guide, a  personal audio headset, audio guide in various languages, w i-fi

Not everyone needs or wants a tour that will fit into busier schedules. Some want to pack in as much as possible, and don’t mind taking longer tours to do so. If that sounds like you, check out the London: Royal Windsor Afternoon Tour from London .

This 7-hour tour is led by a professional tour guide, who is undoubtedly knowledgeable and there to ensure you have a great time. The English-speaking guide will take you through the historic Windsor so you can explore the castle, see the famous St. George’s Chapel, and more.

Starting out as a Saxon village, it’s thought to have been inhabited from approximately 700 AD – as you can imagine there are quite a few stories to tell about the area.

Meet up at Evan Evans Office in London and head out to Windsor. We found the vehicles to be smooth, and the driver to be very safe and attentive.

Once you arrive to this beautiful countryside location, you’ll get to see the river, stroll about its cobbled streets, and explore its charming little tea rooms, shops, and more as your guide offers an intriguing commentary on its background.

After getting to know the town a bit, you’ll head over to the infamous Windsor Castle. It’s hard to miss, and you may have even caught a glimpse of it already as it rises high above the rest of the town.

Having been the ancestral home of the royal family for almost a thousand years, there are countless stories to learn about it.

The architecture alone is quite stunning, but the interior is really going to make your jaw drop. Take a tour through the state apartments, where all kinds of significant icons throughout history have laid their heads.

On the walls hang some of the most important pieces of art by legendary artists as well, and were luckily saved during a more recent fire.

You’ll then see St. George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wed in 2018. However, it’s been around a lot longer than that: since 1528! It’s also the resting place of various monarchs.

4. Best Luxury Tour: Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath from London

• Duration: 12 hours
• Departure: Various departure points (round-trip transportation offered)
• Departure Time: 8:30 AM
• Includes: Bottled water, professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, private tour, transport by private vehicle, fuel surcharge

Next up, we bring you our longest tour and one that will take you all over some of the most legendary places in the country. You’ll not only get to see Windsor Castle, but many other points of interest!

The Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London tour will check a lot of boxes on your bucket list, and do so in one of the most convenient ways possible!

Start off by being picked up in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle and head straight to Eton College, which is known as being the private school of choice for the royal family of the United Kingdom.

Commissioned over 500 years ago by King Henry VIII, it’s still one of the top choices for schools for some of the most powerful families on the planet.

Next, is Windsor Castle, where you’ll get to see the Royal Guards, inside the history of the castle, the courtyards, and even St. George’s Chapel. Your guide will take you through all the interesting nooks and crannies, and to the most iconic parts, as well.

Now, it’s over to both Woodhenge and Stonehenge. Woodhenge is an ancient Neolithic wooden monument built very close to Stonehenge in approximately 2500 BC. You’ll learn about why it’s so important, both throughout the years and present-day.

Hop on over to Stonehenge and your guide will also fill you in on the history behind this 5,000-year-old wonder, explore the visitor center, and take some photos!

After all this adventuring, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. Sneak in a fantastic traditional pub lunch of fish and chips or sip on a traditional English tea.

Head on over to the beautiful, enthralling town of Bath which is filled with jaw-droppingly intricate architecture and a unique history. There’s some great shopping and dining here, and if you’d like you can also enter the infamous Roman Bath house!

5. Best Small Group Tour: Private Windsor Castle And Eton Tour

• Duration: 6 to 7 hours
• Departure: Various pickup spots available
• Departure Time:  9:00 AM
• Includes:  Hotel pickup and drop-off, private tour, transport by private vehicle, driver/guide, professional guide

This tour is a crowd favorite, due to the time being easy to fit into the daytime while being able to tend to London plans in the evening. The Private Windsor Castle and Eton Tour lasts anywhere from 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and other factors.

Offered in 10 different languages, this is a comprehensive tour that will have you avoiding the large group tours that can be harder to learn or see the interesting points with.

You and the rest of your group will be picked up in central London, in a comfortable, spacious vehicle with air conditioning. The trip is quite scenic and your guide/driver will tell you interesting stories about the route as well as Windsor so you have a good background before arriving.

Starting out in the historic center of the town, you’ll check out hidden passages that connect the castle to certain pubs! You’ll see the famous “crooked house”, and even see the rear part of the castle that many visitors don’t get to see.

Next, you’ll see the more common, “touristy” parts of the castle though you’ll get to skip the long lines and just enter.

You’ll be able to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, the amazing apartments inside where many important figures have stayed, artwork by some of the most famous artists throughout history, and much more.

You’ll also see St. George’s Chapel, which has been transformed into a royal wedding venue various times, and even holds the tombs of Henry VIII, Charles I, George VI, Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, and many others. The architecture itself is beautiful, and an excellent example of late medieval Gothic architecture.

If you’d like, you can stroll across the River Thames into Eton – home of Eton College. We’ve already covered quite a bit about this college, but we do recommend checking it out.

6. Best Day Tour: Windsor Castle Tour from London with Lunch

• Duration: 6.5 hours
• Departure:  Victoria Coach Station, Victoria Coach Station, 164 Buckingham Palace Rd
• Departure Time: 7:30 AM
• Includes: One-course pub lunch, professional guide, transport by air-conditioned coach

Exploring and learning can really take a lot out of you, and what better way to take a tour then have one with a delicious lunch included to break up the walking? The Windsor Castle Tour from London with Lunch is exactly that, and more.

You’ll be able to see Windsor Castle, St. George’s Chapel, and other points of interest in one of the most convenient ways possible.

You and the rest of your group will meet at Victoria Coach Station bright and early, at 7:30 am. The 6.5-hour tour is great, because you’ll be in London in time for dinner or any other plans you may have.

The air-conditioned coach is very easy to relax in, with nice, big windows that are great for checking out the countryside as you travel to the historic town of Windsor.

As you head over, your guide will tell your group all about the castle, as well as any other notable places you may encounter.

If you don’t already know about it, you’ll learn about how it plays a very important role in British history and was originally built by William the Conqueror over 900 years ago.

It is one of the Queen’s official residences, and she sometimes still stays here so there’s always the chance she’ll be “in residence” while you explore around. Make sure to check out St. George’s Chapel as well, which is an incredible piece of Gothic architecture and holds the tombs of various monarchs.

Take some time to walk around the town of Windsor at your own pace. Set right next to the Thames, it’s absolutely beautiful, with charming little shops, pubs, and delicious food. Speaking of which, you’ll have lunch here at a pub with some traditional fish and chips!

7. Best Guided Tour: Afternoon Trip London to Windsor Castle

• Departure: Various options available
• Departure Time: 11:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM, 1:00 PM,
• Includes:  Hotel Pickup and drop-off, transport by private vehicle, audio guides, admission tickets, 2 hours of viewing time at Windsor

Are you on the search for a more compact tour? One that will pack as much in as possible but still allows you to fit it into a busy schedule? If so, the Afternoon Trip London to Windsor Castle should catch your eye!

With hotel pickup and drop-off offered, you don’t even have to spend time getting to a station or central pickup spot! However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a self-guided tour, with groups of up to 8 passengers.

Due to this design, it’s one of the best in terms of flexibility and is also a very comfortable way of getting out of the city and seeing this piece of history that’s still relevant today.

Do you ever feel rushed by tour guides? Now you won’t have to, as you can truly check out Windsor Castle at your own pace.

The audio guide is available in multiple languages and takes you through the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, Queen May’s Doll’s House, and much more!

Not only that, but this tour comes with tickets that allow you to bypass the lines which can save you around an hour!

We felt that this was a great experience for families, partners, and friends as you can talk amongst yourselves without interrupting a tour guide. Not to mention, with the smaller group sizes you’ll simply be able to move around easier and see more!

It also lets you choose how you want to spend your time, whether that’s in a certain wing of the castle or outdoors.

FAQs About Windsor Castle Tours

What are the hours of windsor castle.

Windsor Castle is open daily from 10:00am to 5:15pm, except on some public holidays and when the queen is residing there.

How much are tickets for Windsor Castle?

The tickets for Windsor Castle vary depending on the type of ticket and the age of the visitor. For adults the prices are about . You can buy tickets in advance or at the ticket office We recommend a skip-the-line guided tour to save time as the lines can be quite long.

What can I see and do at Windsor Castle?

There is a lot to see and do at Windsor Castle, so we would recommend allowing between 1½ and 2 hours to adequately see the castle. Some highlights are:

The State Apartments : These are the rooms where the Queen and her guests entertain. They are decorated with paintings, furniture and items from the Royal Collection.

St George’s Chapel : This is the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, the oldest order of chivalry in the world. There are 10 monarchs buried here, including Henry VIII and Charles I.

The Changing of the Guard : This is a traditional ceremony where the soldiers that are dressed in red tunics and bearskin hats march from Victoria Barracks to Windsor Castle accompanied by a band. Then they change places with another group of soldiers who guard the Castle. The ceremony takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11:00 am.

The Semi-State Rooms : These are the most lavishly decorated rooms in the Castle. They are used by the Queen for official entertaining during the winter months. They include the Crimson Drawing Room, the White Drawing Room and the Green Drawing Room.

Why You Should Visit Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in England and you should go for several reasons. Here are five reasons you should visit Windsor Castle:

• Royal Residence : Windsor Castle has been one the official residences of the British Royal Family for over 900 years. It is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and has been the home of British kings and queens for centuries.
• History and Architecture : The castle is steeped in history and its architecture is a stunning blend of medieval, Georgian, and Victorian styles. Visitors can explore the State Apartments, the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, St. George’s Chapel and the impressive grounds of the castle.
• Changing of the Guard : The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place everyday at Windsor Castle, providing tourists with an opportunity to witness the pageantry of this historic event.
• Location : Windsor Castle is situated in the picturesque town of Windsor, which is a short train ride from London, making it an easy day trip from the city.
• Family-Friendly : The castle offers various family-friendly activities, such as the interactive family trail which takes visitors on a journey through the castle’s history and the Castle Quests, which are fun treasure hunts for kids.

Tips For Visiting Windsor Castle

• Plan your visit : Windsor Castle is popular so it’s a good idea to buy your tickets well in advance to avoid long lines. Tickets are available online or at the castle’s ticket office. We would recommend a “skip-the-line” tour.
• Wear comfortable shoes : The castle grounds are massive, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. The castle also has many staircases so keep this in mind when choosing your shoes.
• Check the schedule : The castle’s opening hours and tour schedules var, so be sure to check the website or call ahead to plan your visit. Also note that the castle is closed on certain days the year.
• Bring a camera : The castle and its grounds are incredibly beautiful so bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery.
• Respect the rules : Windsor Castle is a royal residence, so there are rules and regulations you must follow while on site. This includes: no photography inside certain areas, no eating or drinking inside the castle and no touching or leaning on any of the artifacts.
• Changing of the Guard : Try to time your visit at the same time as the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It’s a spectacular display of British pageantry that takes place at the castle’s entrance.
• Allow plenty of time : There’s a lot to see and do at Windsor Castle so allow yourself time for your visit so you don’t have to rush. It normally takes a few hours to see everything.

Tour Guides

The Half-Day Trip to Windsor Castle is our Editor's Choice for the best tour of Windsor Castle from London.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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• About this activity

Windsor Castle Half Day Trip from London

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This half day tour travels to the historic town of Windsor and includes entrance to Windsor Castle, the Official Residence of His Majesty King Charles III, plenty of free time to explore and luxury coach travel.

Activity location

• Castle Hill
• SL4 1PD, Windsor, United Kingdom, United Kingdom

Meeting/Redemption Point

• SW5 9TB, London, England, United Kingdom
• Wed, Jun 5 -
• Thu, Jun 6 $112
• Fri, Jun 7 $112
• Sat, Jun 8 -
• Sun, Jun 9 -
• Mon, Jun 10 -
• Tue, Jun 11 -
• Wed, Jun 12 -
• Thu, Jun 13 $112
• Fri, Jun 14 $112
• Sat, Jun 15 $112
• Sun, Jun 16 -
• Mon, Jun 17 -
• Tue, Jun 18 -
• Wed, Jun 19 -
• Activity duration is 4 hours 4h 4h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Transport by air-conditioned luxury coach
• What's included What's included Driver only to and from London
• What's excluded What's excluded Gratuities
• What's excluded What's excluded Tour guide - you walk around Windsor castle by yourselves at your own leisure

Know before you book

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please check the Windsor Castle website for any specific aspects of the castle you wish to visit as it may be closed on the day you wish to travel but the castle itself will be open to visitors (i.e State Apartments etc).
• Please note: the itinerary is intended as a guide and some details may be subject to change
• Please look out for the Anderson Travel bus on arrival at the meeting point

Activity itinerary

Windsor castle.

• Admission ticket included

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Windsor Castle day tours from London

Wide range of windsor castle tours every day of the year.

Windsor Castle and the town of Windsor and Eton in which the Castle stands is on the outskirts of London, close to Heathrow Airport, London's busiest airport. It is quite easy to visit Windsor Castle independently from London using public transport. There are two frequent train services to Windsor, one from London Paddington, the other London Waterloo.

Most tour buses from London that visit Windsor though are on day tours of which Windsor is just one attraction of normally three places visited. Because Windsor is relatively close to London it is either going to be the first or last stop on such a day tour.

Best Windsor Castle tours   Visit length   Changing of the Guard   Private small group minibus Windsor   Half day tours   Windsor combined tours  

A Windsor Castle day trip is a very popular choice with most London tourists. Windsor Castle hosted two Royal weddings in 2018 between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in May and then Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank in October.

St George's Chapel in Windsor Castle has never been more in the public eye, so visiting Windsor now offers more than just fascinating ancient history.

What are the best Windsor Castle tours from London?

Tours to Windsor are varied. Some include a visit to Windsor Castle, others allow you enough time to look around, but whether you choose to book tickets is up to you. You could easily spend two or three hours at Windsor without entering the Castle, though clearly this is the highlight for many.

Important: St George's Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays. Any tours leaving on Sunday will not include entry to the chapel and resting place of Queen Elizabeth II.

If you just want to visit Windsor Castle and no other attraction, Windsor Castle half day morning tour or Windsor Castle half day afternoon tour might be right for you.

If time is short and you would like to combine your time at Windsor Castle with other tourist attractions, there are plenty of potential tours - many including the World Heritage Site of Stonehenge , or perhaps Bath - that you can choose from.

A popular tour right now is the extended Windsor and Stonehenge tour that gives you half a day at each attraction.

Below we have tour combinations such as:

Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath

Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath small group

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford

Windsor & Bath

Windsor and Buckingham Palace

Windsor Castle and the London Eye

Windsor Castle and Hampton Court

Royal London and Royal Windsor

How much time do tours give you inside Windsor Castle?

Bear in mind that whilst the Windsor Castle web site says you need three hours to visit, many tourists only take about 90 mins - 2 hours. The tour companies usually factor this in for morning and afternoon tours so you would have around 2-2.5 hours to spend in Windsor. if you select a tour with three destinations in one day then you'll have less time to explore Windsor but still enough time at the Castle. If you'd prefer longer at Windsor then you can consider travelling independently.

Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle

If you wish to see the Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle, this usually takes place at 11am within the Castle grounds Mondays to Saturdays from April until the end of July.

During the rest of the year and weather permitting, it takes place on alternate days. If you take a morning tour and only have 90 minutes, you'll be leaving as it starts, however most tours do allow two hours, allowing you to see this ceremony. On an afternoon tour it is not possible to see the Changing of the Guard.

Your coach will park around ten minutes' walk away from the Castle itself, so do bear this in mind when thinking about how much time you will have to explore, after factoring getting there and back.

If you wish to visit St George's Chapel, this is closed on Sunday. So make sure you do not book a tour on this day if this is a priority for you.

Royal London and Royal Windsor: Full day guided tour

If you are visiting London to immerse yourself in Royal history then this is the tour for you. A full day guided tour that focusses on key Royal attractions in London in the morning and takes you to the majestic Windsor Castle in the afternoon.

You'll join the tour at Victoria Coach Station at 9am and be taken around London with panoramic views of historic sights including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. You can also see the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace (subject to availability and on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday only). Throughout the morning tour you'll be accompanied by an expert guide who will regale you with all the history and facts you could wish for.

At the end of the morning tour, you are taken back to Victoria Coach Station and have an hour break to get some lunch, relax and make your way to the leaving point for the afternoon tour to Royal Windsor. This tour leaves from the Evans Evans offices (258 Vauxhall Bridge Road) which is just a 5-min walk from Victoria train station and underground station.

During this afternoon tour you will be able to explore the quaint and beautiful town of Windsor, with its cobbled streets and iconic River Thames. You'll also gain entry to Windsor Castle where you can come up close to history in its stunning State Rooms and see St George's Chapel, made famous by recent Royal weddings and now the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II.

Combining a Royal London and Royal WIndsor tour in one day allows you to immerse yourself in Royal History and Royal Present. This day tour is not exhausting as it does not try to do too much in one day. You can relax with a superior coach and guide looking after you throughout.

ROYAL LONDON & ROYAL WINDSOR - DAY TOUR FROM LONDON

Day tour visiting Royal London attractions and Windsor Castle

• Royal London Tour • Royal Windsor Tour • Entrance to Windsor Castle • See Changing of the Guard - subject to day

Private day tour half day Windsor Castle or Windsor Castle with Hampton Court Palace

Be welcomed with a personalized and special meet and greet at the pick up point, where you are guaranteed the utmost care and priority in navigating you through the busy streets of London.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the comforts of your own private vehicle as you set off at your own convenience to a pit-stop through Windsor and explore all of its character and grandeur.

Or make it a day trip of private luxury and visit two majestic palaces in one day, also visiting Hampton Court Palace , with your driver/guide or option to add on a separate guide for a really informative experience.

ROYAL WINDSOR - PRIVATE DAY TOUR FROM LONDON

Private day tour visiting Windsor Castle from London

• Private luxury tour to Windsor Castle from London • Entrance to Windsor Castle • London in your Pocket app access • Options for driver/guide or separate guide

HAMPTON COURT PALACE & WINDSOR CASTLE PRIVATE COACH TOUR

• Entrance to historic Windsor Castle • Entrance to Hampton Court Palace & stunning gardens • Expert Driver – Guide or Guide & Separate Driver • Private luxury vehicle

Simple half day tour to Windsor Castle - am or pm

For those who would like a longer time in Windsor, a simple half day tour is probably going to be best. This will give you the longest possible time in Windsor on a tour, outside of travelling there by your own steam on public transport.

You'll have time to explore not only the Castle and its grounds, but also have time in the historic town, with its range of restaurants and cafe's for lunch, shops and even a walk - or boat trip - by the Thames.

Windsor Castle half day morning tour  

Windsor Castle half day afternoon tour  

Windsor Castle Tours from London - Morning (with option of London Eye upgrade)

Runs all year Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays .

A straight forward proposition of return coach travel between London and Windsor with entrance tickets to Windsor Castle and a guided walking tour to explore Windsor and Eton. This tour is perfect for those wanting to take a morning visit to Windsor with their afternoon and evening free in London.

The whole tour takes around six hours, including travelling time, leaving you ample enough time to explore the historic town, and also the Castle and grounds at your own pace.

You can also upgrade this tour to include a flight on the London Eye in the afternoon.

Windsor Town and Castle

Windsor is a pretty town full of traditional shops and historic pubs. From William the Conqueror all the way through to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, successive monarchs have lived at Windsor Castle and left their mark on what is now the largest continuously occupied castle in the world.

St George's Chapel

Your tour will offer you the chance to see the splendor of St. George's Chapel, one of the most beautiful examples of medieval church architecture in England and a burial place of kings and queens, including Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour. It is now also an iconic Royal wedding venue with coverage bringing it to the attention of millions worldwide.

State Apartments and Queen Mary's Doll's House

One of the other main attractions at Windsor Castle are the sumptuous State Apartments, still used for State occasions and Royal receptions. Another highlight is Queen Mary's Doll's House, an exquisite single miniature dolls' house built for Queen Mary by British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens between 1921 and 1924, complete with miniature crown jewels.

There is so much more to do at this ancient Royal Castle; for lovers of art, history and royals, it is a must-see destination if you are staying in London. The tour returns to London around 1.30pm. Use the banner below to book your place.

HALF DAY WINDSOR CASTLE TOUR FROM LONDON - MORNING TOUR

Morning half-day Windsor Castle tour from London

(With option to add on London Eye in afternoon)

Adult £93 • Child £83

• Entrance to Windsor Castle • Transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach • Professional guide • London in your Pocket app access • Wi-Fi on board • Upgrade to add on London Eye

Windsor Castle Tours from London - Afternoon

If you wish to visit Windsor Castle in the afternoon, this is a tour that runs nearly every day during the summer months, and at least three days a week during the winter months.

Departure if from Golden Tours Visitor Centre, Victoria at 1.30pm or Golden Tours Visitor Centre, Kensington at 1.45pm, during the summer months. During the winter months it is 11.30am and 11.45pm respectively.

You will get entrance to Windsor Castle State Apartments as well as St George's Chapel and you can see Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. As this is an afternoon tour the changing of the guards will have been completed by the time you arrive, if Changing of the Guards at Windsor is important to you then you should opt for a morning tour instead.

Audio guides for Windsor Castle are available in: English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian, Brazilian Portuguese & Spanish. Free Wi-Fi is available on board your coach.

This tour is unescorted and you will spend approximately two hours in Windsor Castle. Use the banner below to book your place.

HALF DAY WINDSOR CASTLE TOUR FROM LONDON - AFTERNOON TOUR

Afternoon half-day Windsor Castle tour from London

Adult from £70 • Child from £65

• Entrance to Windsor Castle • Transportation by luxury coach with free Wi-Fi • Expert guide • London in your Pocket app access

Windsor Combination Tours many featuring Stonehenge

You can visit Windsor as part of a full day tour visiting three world class attractions in one day. Here are a few permutations of the Windsor tour, many which include Stonehenge, but also other top sites such as Oxford or Bath.

Extended Windsor and Stonehenge tour

Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath small group tour

Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford private tour

Windsor, Stonehenge and Salisbury

Windsor and Bath

Windsor & Buckingham Palace

Windsor & London Eye

Windsor & Hampton Court Palace

2-day Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath & Oxford

Windsor and Stonehenge extended tour - featuring extended visits to both attractions

Most combination tours include three of the main must see attractions such as Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath. This tour is slightly different in that it focuses on Windsor Castle and Stonehenge only. This gives you more time at both Windsor Castle and Stonehenge .

With that extra time, roughly 3.5 hours in Windsor, you can not only explore the incredible Castle but also Windsor itself, which is a beautiful town on the River Thames. There are plenty of coffee shops to enjoy in Windsor or you might like to take a short boat trip down the Thames to see the Castle from the water.

Your time in Stonehenge is also extended so if you do not want to be rushing around and like to take your time, then this tour might suit you perfectly. The tour visits Stonehenge in the morning and spends the afternoon in Windsor. Changing of the Guard takes place in the morning at Windsor, so if this is a must see for you then this tour will not give you that opportunity.

Check out our experience of this Extended Windsor Castle Stonehenge tour on our blog. Use the banner below to book your place.

STONEHENGE & WINDSOR TOUR

With extended time at Windsor & Stonehenge

Windsor Castle entrance only £99

Stonehenge only £109

Both entries £139

No entries £85

• Extended visit to Windsor Castle • Extended access to Stonehenge • Luxury air-conditioned vehicle

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath tour

This tour visits Windsor Castle , Stonehenge and Bath in that order. It is one of the most popular tours as you will experience three iconic attractions in one day.

You have various options on this tour.

Choose from:

Option1: Coach tour only (no entrances)

Option2: Entrance to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle (free time in Bath)

Option 3: Entrances to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle plus Roman Baths at Bath

Included in the price on the banner below (option 3): 

• Admissions to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Roman Baths
• Professional guide
• Panoramic coach tour of Bath
• Transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi

Use the banner below to book your place at our exclusive price.

WINDSOR CASTLE, STONEHENGE & BATH TOUR

Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath guided day tour from London

Stonehenge entrance only £92

Stonehenge & Windsor Castle entrances £114

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Roman Baths entrances £143

• Choose your flexible ticket to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Roman Baths • Professional guide • Luxury air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath small group tour

This small group tour has a maximum of 16 people and visits Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath . It visits Stonehenge first which is usually quieter early in the morning. It then visits Bath and finally Windsor. Being a small group tour you have an expert guide, executive mini-coach and it runs every day. Use the banner below to book your place.

WINDSOR, STONEHENGE & BATH SMALL GROUP TOUR

Small group day tour of Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath

Flexi adult from £174 • Best rate adult from £156.60 • Flexi child (3-15 years) from £154 • Best rate child from £138.60

• Max 16 people per tour • Admission to Stonehenge & Windsor Castle • Walking tour of Georgian and Roman Bath • Executive mini coach with expert guide • Visit Stonehenge first to beat the crowd

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath private tour

On this fabulous private day tour you will be collected from your choice of destination in London and taken to Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath with entry included to Windsor and Stonehenge. In Bath you can enjoy a walking tour with an expert guide.

At the end of the day you will be driven to you chosen drop-off. You can choose from driver-guide or for a supplement, a separate guide.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford tour

This tour visits Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford in a day and includes entrances to Windsor Castle and Stonehenge with a guided walking tour of Oxford; 'The City of Dreaming Spires'.

Use the banner below to book your place. If you'd like to visit the areas without entry included for the attractions there are options to reduce costs by removing entry tickets to the Castle or Stonehenge.

WINDSOR CASTLE, STONEHENGE & OXFORD TOUR

Windsor, Stonehenge & Oxford guided day tour from London

Stonehenge & Windsor Castle entrances £116

• Visit to Windsor Castle and Stonehenge • Walking tour of Oxford • Luxury air-conditioned vehicle

Private Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford

Discover centuries of royal history on this private day tour. Enjoy the ultimate in comfort and luxury transportation with entry included to Windsor and Stonehenge, with a walking tour of Oxford with your expert guide.

Private tours allow you to be collected and dropped off from your choice of destination in London. You can choose from driver-guide or for a supplement, a separate guide.

WINDSOR, STONEHENGE & OXFORD PRIVATE COACH TOUR

• 11-hr tour • Entry to Windsor Castle & Stonehenge • Walking tour of Oxford • Pick-up and drop-off from your chosen location • Driver/guide or separate guide

Windsor, Stonehenge & Salisbury

With entries included to Windsor Castle , Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral this tour also includes a meet at greet introduction at the Cathedral. A fabulous day with much rich heritage to discover.

WINDSOR CASTLE, STONEHENGE AND SALISBURY TOUR FROM LONDON

Windsor, Stonehenge & Salisbury tour from London

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle & Salisbury Cathedral entrances £149

Stonehenge & Windsor Castle entrances £139

Stonehenge entrance only £112

No entries included £85

• Visit to Windsor Castle & St George's Chapel • Visit to Stonehenge • Visit to Salisbury Cathedral with meet & greet • Transportation by air-conditioned coach

Windsor Castle and Bath day tour

This day tour focuses on just Windsor Castle and Bath City which gives you more time in both. This tour is very flexible with options to add on tickets just for Windsor Castle or just the Roman Baths or both together; or choose to explore the beautiful town and city at your leisure, with no entrances included.

This day tour gives you access to two of England's most famous sites in one less-intensive tour day.

WINDSOR CASTLE & BATH TOUR FROM LONDON

Windsor & Bath tour from London

Roman Baths only £109

Windsor Castle only £109

Windsor Castle & Roman Baths £130

• Round trip from London in comfortable coach visiting Windsor & Bath • Options to add on entrances to both Windsor Castle & Roman Baths

Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace tour

Two iconic Royal residences in one day.

This tour will spend the morning at Buckingham Palace followed by the afternoon at at Windsor Castle .

Due to the summer-only nature of the openings of Buckingham Palace this tour is only available from the end of July to late September.

WINDSOR CASTLE AND BUCKINGHAM PALACE FROM LONDON

Windsor Castle & Buckingham Palace - available end July - end September

• Entry to Windsor Castle • Entry to Buckingham Palace • Professional guide • Luxury air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi • London in Your Pocket app access

Windsor Castle in the morning, followed by a ride on the unforgettable London Eye in the afternoon. This tour is a sure winner.

When you click the link below you can choose between two options - just Windsor Castle as a half day tour, or Windsor Castle plus the London Eye.

WINDSOR CASTLE AND THE LONDON EYE

Windsor Castle morning tour with the London Eye in the afternoon

Windsor Castle only £93

Windsor Castle plus London Eye £118

• Entry to Windsor Castle • Option to add on London Eye • Professional guide • Luxury air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi

London, Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace

Take a panoramic guided tour of London before you enjoy entry to Hampton Court Palace and Gardens and in addition, Windsor Castle .

Upon arrival to Hampton Court Palace, guests will receive a warm welcome and introduction from a guide in periodic costume.

In London see Parliament Square and the 12 statues of famous statesmen including Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi and Winston Churchill. Pass by Trafalgar Square, home to Nelson’s Column, which honours Admiral Nelson in his victory in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Then, it’s on to Piccadilly, Hyde Park Corner and Kensington before heading to Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace.

• Panoramic tour of London
• Entry to Hampton Court Palace and Gardens (if selected)
• Entry to Windsor Castle State Apartments (if selected)
• A fully guided tour with a professional guide
• Return travel from London on a comfortable coach

LONDON, WINDSOR CASTLE & HAMPTON COURT PALACE

Windsor Castle, Hampton Court and London tour

Hampton Court Palace only £109

Windsor Castle & Hampton Court Palace £129

MOST POPULAR TOURS FROM LONDON 2024

Visiting stonehenge and/or windsor and/or bath, visiting cotswolds and/or oxford and/or stratford and/or warwick, visiting canterbury, leeds castle & dover, special theme tours, day tours by train to liverpool, paris & scotland, 2 to 12 day tours covering great britain, ireland, paris & amsterdam.

BOOK DISCOUNTED TOURS FROM LONDON

£143 - Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

£116 - Stonehenge & Bath

£65 - Stonehenge half-day tour

• Exclusive prices including admission to attractions • Air-conditioned tour coaches with free Wi-Fi

Half Day Windsor Castle Tour With Tickets From London for only £89

Depart early from London to visit the historic town of Windsor, the tour will then take you to explore Windsor Castle itself, the oldest royal residence in the world, where you can wonder around the magnificent Windsor Castle, the Castle grounds and chapel.

Windsor Castle still operates as a royal residence and is not home to His Majesty King Charles III. Find out about the history of the Windsor Castle which dates back to the 11th century, understand the importance and legacy it has passed onto generations, see the resting place of many former royalty, stroll through the castle grounds and rooms upon entry.

Tour Includes:

• Round trip transportation
• Entry to Windsor Castle
• Audio guide

Tour Duration:

Return back to London early afternoon leaving you plenty of time to explore the rest of the city.

Departure Time:

Tour departs at 9:50 AM please arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.

Departure Point:

Earls Court Underground Station Exit from Warwick Road and turn right. Please wait at Bus Stop C which is 1 minute walk from the station after turning right. Bus Stop C is at the junction opposite Trebovir Road which is a no entry road.

Postcode for directions is: SW5 9TB.

Windsor Castle: Half Day Trip from London including Entry

⭐ Windsor Castle: Half Day Trip from London including Entry allows visitors to experience the historic and iconic Windsor Castle, including the staterooms, Queen Mary's Dolls' House, and St. George's Chapel.

Tickets for Windsor Castle: Half Day Trip from London including Entry 🎫 Standard Admission - includes transportation and entry tickets for a visit to Windsor Castle.

• Adult (15+)
• Child (5-15)

Children under 5 years old can enter for free

Highlights 🏰 Take a tour of Windsor Castle and explore the staterooms, Queen Mary's Dolls' House, and St. George's Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot 🚌 Experience a hassle-free half-day excursion with convenient pickups from various locations in London and comfortable transportation to and from Windsor Castle by a luxurious air-conditioned coach ⚰️ Witness the final resting place of the beloved late Queen Elizabeth II, who lies beside her husband, Prince Phillip, Duke of Edinburgh

General Info 📍 Location: Warwick Road (Bus Stop C), SW5 9TB, London 📅 Dates: select your date directly in the ticket selector 🕒 Time: 9:50 a.m. ⏳ Duration: 5h ♿ Accessibility: the tour is unfortunately not suitable for wheelchair users ❓ For this event, all sales are final and tickets can’t be refunded, changed or modified. For more information, please refer to our T&Cs

Description Embark on a half-day journey to Windsor Castle and be captivated by opulence within the longest-occupied palace in Europe. Explore the grand Staterooms, Queen Mary's Dolls' House, and the iconic St. George's Chapel. Uncover the resting place of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip. With deluxe transportation and expert guides, this seamless adventure promises enchanting tales of history.  Get your tickets now to Windsor Castle: Half Day Trip from London including Entry.

How to get there?

Longridge Mansion

Warwick Road (Bus Stop C), London, SW5 9TB

Select date and session

No booking fees

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Stonehenge and windsor castle tour from london with entry tickets, stonehenge and windsor tour from london with entry tickets.

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What's included? • Entry or admission fee • Driver/guide • Live commentary on board • Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points • Luxury and air-conditioned vehicle • Entry/Admission - Stonehenge & Windsor Castle

Stonehenge and Windsor Tour

Spend more time exploring two of the most remarkable places in England on this day trip from London: Windsor including Windsor Castle tickets, and Stonehenge including entrance. With this tour you will have ample time to spend at each location and have lunch. At Stonehenge there's a café to buy a sandwich and drinks and at Windsor there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to buy food. We start from London and head to the ancient and mysterious Stonehenge, where entrance is included. This is possibly the UK’s most well-known historical monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next, we visit Windsor, and this comes with Windsor Castle tickets. Here you will wander through the grand state apartments of a working castle and see where heads of state & monarchs still meet. Visit the beautiful St Georges Chapel where the late Queen is buried and take a look at the fabulous Doll's House.

Historic Landmarks

Experience 2 well-known, incredible locations on this jam-packed day trip to Stonehenge & Windsor.

Guided Tour

Enjoy the day with one of our friendly, knowledgeable tour guides, helping you to fully experience the beauty and heritage of the sites.

An Unique Experience

We have crafted & refined our tours with a personal touch over the past 25+ years to offer you an extraordinary day out.

Luxury Coach

We use our own luxury minibuses & coaches, which are designed with your comfort and safety in mind.

Payment Options

We accept most major card types for online payments. We also accept payment by card over the phone or cash to our central London office.

Have a Question?

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• +44 207 436 9304
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From London: Tour the Stone Circles of Avebury and Stonehenge

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Windsor Castle Tickets, with Transport from London & Guide

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Privacy Overview

Top Castles to Visit While in London

Updated : June 04, 2024

Michelle Palmer

Table of contents.

• Blenheim Palace
• Buckingham Palace
• Dover Castle
• Hampton Court Palace
• Highclere Castle (aka Downton Abbey)
• Kensington Palace
• Tower of London
• Windsor Castle

If you are planning a trip to London, you are almost certainly considering visiting some castles and palaces during your stay. But, what are the top castles in London and which ones should you consider? London's location and importance means there's a lot castles and palaces to choose from, and your list will vary depending on your interests. If you enjoy learning about Henry VIII and his wives, Hampton Court Palace should be at the top of your list. If you keep up with all the news about the modern royal family, book tickets to see Buckingham Palace and Windsor Palace. World War II history buff? You should head to Blenheim Palace, birthplace of the Sir Winston Churchill, and Dover Castle. And of course, if pop culture is more your speed, Highclere Castle, aka Downton Abbey, is a must-see.

Keep reading to learn about the best castles to visit while staying in London. Some of these will be day trips. Most can be visited either on your own or on a bus tour, so you can customize your vacation to fit your needs and travel preferences. So why wait; dive into some royal history and start planning your London trip!

1. Blenheim Palace

Location: Woodstock, Oxfordshire

Tickets: Tickets must be purchased online ahead of your visit. Basic tickets allow access to the State Rooms and grounds, and upgraded tickets to see parts of the palace like private living quarters also are available.

Suggested activity: Blenheim Palace Tour and The Cotswolds Day Trip from London

Queen Anne gave Blenheim Palace to John Churchill, the first Duke of Marlborough, in the 18th century, and in the next century, the 7th Duke of Marlborough and his wife welcomed their son, Winston Churchill, into the world. On a tour of the castle, you can visit an exhibit about Sir Winston Churchill detailing his life at the palace and legacy.

You’ll also have the opportunity to see the elaborate State Rooms that feature a large mural on the ceiling and are decorated with columns, statues and tapestries. You can see the formal gardens, and for an extra fee, you can take a buggy ride through them. If you are visiting with kids, don’t miss the playground on-site, and try your hand at solving the Marlborough Maze, a two-mile-long hedge maze.

If you are interested in TV show and movie sites, follow the “Lights! Camera! Action! Trail” map to see filming locations for shows like “Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story” and movies, including “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” and “Mission Impossible – Rogue Nation.” The audio guide included with your ticket also provides additional information about the palace and the grounds.

2. Buckingham Palace

Location: London

Tickets: Purchase your tickets ahead of time to ensure entry. Regular tours are offered during the summer months.

If Buckingham Palace is on your list of top things to do in London, book your tickets in advance to ensure entry. Tours of the palace occur in the summer. (Occasionally some guided tours are offered at other times of year, but slots are limited.) If you want to snag one of these tours, you'll have to keep a watch on the Royal Collections Trust's announcements for tours and events.

George IV became king in 1820 and had Buckingham House demolished and spent a fortune to build Buckingham Palace. The elaborate royal residence was not completed in his lifetime, and no monarch lived here until Queen Victoria opted to make it her residence. She had the East Wing constructed including the now iconic balcony where the royal family greets the public on special occasions.

On a tour of Buckingham Palace, you'll get to see the state rooms where the King Charles III entertains during ceremonial and official occasions. You can also opt for tours that include admission to the Royal Mews, the royal stables and where the Royal Carriages are kept, as well as the King's Gallery with changing exhibits featuring paintings, photographs and decorative arts from the king's collection. Guided tours of the palace gardens are also available.

3. Dover Castle

Location: Dover, Kent

Tickets: If visiting the castle on your own or part of a tour that doesn't include admission, purchase your ticket ahead of time to save compared to the ticket prices at the door.

Suggested activity: Rochester, Dover Castle and the White Cliffs

Dover Castle is one of the best castles to visit for World War II history buffs. About 2 hours outside of London on the coast in County Kent, you can tour the castle and see the White Cliffs of Dover. Dover Castle’s history dates back to the 11 th century and William the Conqueror, though the castle has since been renovated, expanded and fortified. The castle has seen wars and sieges, and in World War II, the tunnels under the castle were used as headquarters for the armed services. It's where military leaders planned the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940 that took place on the other side of the Strait of Dover in France.

Dover Castle is made of gray stone brick that forms a square castle with square towers and is surrounded by defensive walls of the same color. It overlooks the White Cliffs of Dover and onto the strait. From the top of the castle, you get views of the surrounding area and on clear days, it’s possible to see across the Strait of Dover all the way to the shores of France. On your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to tour and learn more about the lighthouse built by the Romans, and see the Great Tower that has been restored to look like it may have in the 12 th century during the reign of Henry II. You can also go into the tunnels to see exhibits about how they were used by the British military during World War II.

4. Hampton Court Palace

Location: East Molesey, Surry

Tickets: Book your tickets ahead of time to save money. If you are traveling on your own and plan to visit several castles, consider purchasing an annual membership to save on ticket prices. Membership to Historic Royal Palaces includes entry to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace and Hillsborough Castle.

Suggested activity: Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace Tour

Hampton Court Palace was built in the 16 th century and quickly became a favorite locale for Henry VIII; he lived here with all six of his wives. Another notable monarch was King William III (aka William of Orange), who wanted a baroque palace, though much of the Tudor style portion of the palace was left alone while architects and builders made Fountain Court and created an updated palace for the new king.

Hampton Court Palace is large and lavish. On a tour, you’ll get to see both the Tudor and baroque portions of the palace from the grand staircases, ornate paintings on the walls and ceilings, and detailed tapestries. You can see the King’s apartments and the Chapel Royal, an ornate chapel where Henry VIII attended religious services.

At Henry VIII’s Kitchens, you’ll get a glimpse into the day-to-day life of workers at the palace and how many people were required to keep the palace functioning. Some 200 people were employed in the kitchens, made of several buildings, and they made 800 meals per day to feed the royal family, servants, staff and guards.

Don’t skip the Hampton Court Gardens. The formal gardens are well-manicured and perfect for a stroll. For a bit of whimsy, try your hand at the hedge maze, said to be the oldest in the United Kingdom.

5. Highclere Castle (aka Downton Abbey)

Location: Newbury, Berkshire

Tickets: Purchase tickets ahead of your visit to save money compared to the price at the door and to ensure entry.

Suggested activity: Downton Abbey and Oxford Tour from London Including Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle is on the bucket list of many a "Downton Abbey" fan and a top castle to visit on a London vacation. The popular show and movie of the same name put Highclere on the map for many tourists. The grand castle, as we see it today, was built in 1679 and was greatly transformed by Sir Charles Barry, the man who designed the Houses of Parliament, adding many elements to the castle that adhered to Victorian ideals of architecture and design.

Today visitors of the castle can tour rooms like the library that are so familiar to Downtown Abbey fans and see the beautiful wallpaper that shimmers in the sunlight, the paintings and photographs, and get an up-close look at detailed architectural elements. Tours of Highclere are self-guided; however, guides are stationed in the rooms to answer questions and provide information. You can learn about the filming of "Downton Abbey" as well as the history of the real-life castle. If you happen to be visiting London in December and celebrating Christmas, a tour of the castle would be a special treat with elaborate decorations and festively decorated trees throughout the castle.

6. Kensington Palace

Tickets: Book your tickets ahead of time to save money. If you are traveling on your own and plan to visit several castles, consider purchasing an annual membership to save on ticket prices. A membership to Historic Royal Palaces includes entry to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Kew Palace and Hillsborough Castle.

In the 17th century, William III and Mary II chose to make Nottingham House their home, and subsequent monarchs expanded what became Kensington Palace. It served as the residence of English monarchs until 1837 when Victoria was crowned queen and opted to leave her childhood home in favor of Buckingham Palace.

Today, the house is the residence of William and Catherine, Prince and Princess of Wales, but historic areas of the palace remain open to the public for tours. On a visit to the house, you can expect to see the King's State Apartments, which despite its name was not where the king and the family spent their daily lives, but rather a place where monarchs held meetings and conducted official duties. Part of this area is the King's Staircase, where a mural by William Kent adorns the walls and ceilings. Even the banisters feature lavish details with metal formed into a curving and swirling pattern.

7. Tower of London

Suggested activity:   Tower of London: Entry Ticket, Crown Jewels and Beefeater Tour

The Tower of London is a top thing to do in London not least of all because it is where the crown jewels are on display. If you want to see the exhibit, be sure to allot enough time during your day. Unless you visit in the off-season, wait times to get into the exhibit can be a half hour or longer. Crowds also tend to be smaller during shoulder season . Once inside, you can view displays of crowns, rings, robes and other official garb. For the best chance to avoid wait times, arrive early in the day near opening time.

Don't skip the rest of the castle though. It's been a part of London for hundreds of years and is full of history. Your entry ticket includes a guided tour by a Yeoman Warder, aka a Beefeater. You can also opt to purchase an audio guide. When I visited, it was December, so it wasn't very busy, and I loved the tour. The Yeoman Warder told us some of the history of the castle, interesting details about the fortifications, and stories of people who lived there, visited and were imprisoned there. He also shared a little about himself and his military career, and I very much enjoyed how he enhanced the experience and brought the history of the Tower of London to life.

The Tower of London is like a microcity with buildings that have served as living quarters, a church and royal residences. It's been there since the Middle Ages and has seen the likes of Geoffrey Chaucer, been a prison to many famous figures like Princess Elizabeth before she became Queen Elizabeth I, as well as more notorious figures like Guy Fawkes. And the Tower Green has served as the execution site of Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, Henry VIII's second and fifth wives respectively.

8. Windsor Castle

Location: Windsor, Berkshire

Tickets: Book tickets ahead of time to save money compared to the in-person price and to ensure entry on the day of your visit.

One of the official residences of the king, the Royal Collection Trust says this castle is the "oldest and largest castle in the world." Windsor Castle 's construction began in 1070 at the behest of William the Conqueror, and during its hundreds of years, British Monarchs have added to the castle, modifying many elements to suit the styles of the times. While the castle's original intent was more fortification than luxurious palace, that too has changed. The castle has seen gothic, baroque, regency and neoclassical updates throughout the years.

Though the castle remains one of the official residences of the king, it is open to the public. During your visit, you can see the State Apartments and Semi-State Rooms. These areas are used to host heads of state, important ceremonies and official entertainment. These rooms are opulent with glistening gilded elements and luxuriously crimson furnishings. Rooms are decorated with painted portraits, dark woods, chandeliers and other lavish features. You'll also see rooms with elaborate murals on the ceiling and detailed carvings.

Tours of Windsor Castle are self-guided. Grab an audio guide for information and historical context for the many sights on your tour.

Michelle Palmer is a development editor who has over 10 years of experience in the travel publishing industry. She loves telling the stories, histories and culture of places that inspire others to go and experience new destinations. When not traveling, she participates in circus arts, goes to live shows and is a “Murder, She Wrote” aficionado.

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The 5 Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace

O n a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Check online for a current schedule of the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area, while sharing knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the Victoria Palace Theatre. The outings end at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

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Button Enhancement : Travel - Buckingham Palace Tours - Changing of the Guard Walking Tour (Viator)

Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour

Price: From $161

Duration: 8.5 hours

Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle.

Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines.

The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m.

Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection. The ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

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Best of London Tour Including Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

Price: From $144; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee

Duration: 9 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here, you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

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London: Explore the Parks and Palaces on a Morning Bike Tour

Price: From $37

Duration: 3.5 hours

Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were impressed by the guides' knowledge. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

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The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $482

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Laura French is an award-winning British travel writer based in London. She grew up just outside the city and worked around the corner from Buckingham Palace for several years. She loves exploring the surrounding area, and used her own experience alongside online research to compile the roundup.

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