Built in the 11th century, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. It is one of the UK’s top visitor attractions, and also happens to be one of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite official residences. When in residence, the Queen’s personal standard flies from Windsor Castle’s Round Tower. Windsor Castle covers 26 acres and has been a royal residence for 900 years.
Windsor Castle is used for ceremonies and state occasions, such as the Order of the Garter ceremony and for hosting visits from overseas monarchs.
Things to See at Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle was originally built by William the Conqueror, and has since been expanded and modified by succeeding monarchs. Some of the features inside Windsor Castle available for public viewing include:
- The State Apartments - the apartments contain many magnificent pieces of artwork and furniture from the Royal Collection. Paintings from artists such as Canaletto, Gainsborough, Holbein, Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Dyck adorn the walls, while elaborate pieces of French and English furniture and other treasures fill the rooms.
- The Semi-State Rooms - these private apartments, created by George IV, are lavishly decorated and can be visited between the months of October and March.
- The Drawings Gallery - the gallery is home to various exhibitions, such as the Henry VIII: A 500th Anniversary Exhibition. Items from Henry VIII’s reign, taken from the Royal Collection and the St George’s chapel archives, were collected together to depict the story of the king’s life.
- St George’s Chapel - the chapel is one of England’s most stunning gothic buildings. It is the spiritual home of the knighthood known as the Order of the Garter, created by Edward III in 1348. St George’s Chapel is also the final resting place of ten monarchs, including Henry VIII and Charles I.
- Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House - this is the most famous dolls’ house in the world. Complete with fully-functioning electricity and running water, it was constructed by 1,500 different people and took three years to make.
Getting to Windsor Castle and Castle Admission
Windsor Castle is located in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Berkshire. If travelling by train, Windsor can be reached from London Waterloo and London Paddington. If travelling by road, take M4 Exit 6, or M3 Exit 3. Green Line coaches provide daily services from London Victoria coach station.
It is advisable to allow at least two hours for a visit to Windsor Castle. Visitors are able to register for unlimited, complementary admission to the castle for 12 months when purchasing a ticket. Windsor Castle is open to the public on most days throughout the year, but as it is a working palace, people are advised to check opening times before they arrange a visit. St George’s Chapel is open only to worshippers on Sundays.
On arrival at Windsor Castle, visitors are invited to listen to a complementary audio commentary while they explore the castle grounds. Visitors with children can opt for a special family audio tour and take advantage of activity trails. Also, there are free guided tours of the castle precincts that take place throughout the day. Castle wardens are positioned inside the castle grounds to offer information and assistance if required.
For more information about Windsor, read Things to do in the Royal Town of Windsor.
Resources:
- The Official Website of the British Monarchy. “Windsor Castle.” (Accessed 13th November 2009)
- The Royal Collection. “Windsor Castle.” (Accessed 13th November 2009)
Sharon Kirby - Sharon is a freelance health writer and contributes to various print and online publications. Writing credits include Nursing Times, Good ...
