Windsor Castle
The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and a classic day trip to the west of London.
About 35 km from central London, the castle was built in the 11th century and is the main royal residence for weekends and Easter. Highlights include the State Apartments, Queen Mary's Dolls' House and the Gothic St George's Chapel, where Queen Elizabeth II is buried. Tickets cost about £30. The castle is usually closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the chapel is open only for services on Sundays, and it may close for royal events, so check the official website before you go. From Paddington, change at Slough, or take a direct train from Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside station; the journey takes about an hour. You can also stroll through the town of Eton, home of Eton College.
Opening hours
Usually Thu–Mon 10:00–17:15 (until 16:15 in winter)
Nearby sights
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
- Hampton Court Palace
- Kew Gardens
- Richmond Park
- Verulamium Museum & Park
- St Albans Cathedral
- Design Museum
- Notting Hill / Portobello Road Market