Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Self-Guided Tour with Coach

Exploring London’s Royal Gems: A Closer Look at the Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Self-Guided Tour with Coach

If you’re planning a trip to London and want to get a glimpse of the royal life without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, this self-guided tour offers a practical way to see two of the most iconic residences: Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. With the convenience of round-trip coach transportation and the freedom to explore at your own pace, it appeals particularly to travelers who enjoy a bit of independence but also appreciate expert organization.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances guided convenience with personal discovery. First, it includes entry to the interiors of Buckingham Palace, which only happens a few weeks each year, making it a rare chance to see the State Rooms. Second, the trip to Windsor Castle offers a chance to explore the Queen’s favorite weekend residence, complete with audio guides and access to impressive artworks and St. George’s Chapel. But, a key consideration is that the tour is quite long, lasting about 10.5 hours, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on their feet and enjoy a full-day adventure.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet flexible royal experience. If you prefer independent exploration with the security of transportation included, and don’t mind the crowds, this could be a good fit. However, be aware that the group size can go up to 52 travelers, which might feel busy during peak times.

Key Points

• Self-guided access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms provides a unique glimpse into royal life.
• Round-trip transportation makes the day seamless and hassle-free.
• Windsor Castle’s extensive interior visits include priceless artworks and historic architecture.
• The itinerary offers flexibility for independent travelers who want to explore at their own pace.
• The tour length is around 10 hours 30 minutes, so it’s best for those prepared for a full day.
• Crowd management can be a concern, especially at popular sites during peak season.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the description suggests it’s a thoughtfully organized way to see two very different, yet equally regal, landmarks. The journey begins in Victoria, London, where you’ll meet your guide and walk to Buckingham Palace. This walk, only about 10 minutes, is short enough to get you oriented but still allows a moment to soak in the surroundings of London’s most famous royal residence.

Buckingham Palace itself is a sight to behold. The tour includes special timed entry—a crucial detail because the Palace is only open to the public for eight weeks each year. When you step inside, you’ll see the magnificent State Rooms, which are used for official functions. The rooms are decked out with priceless artworks by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci, and include the dazzling ballroom and throne room. The highlight, for many, is walking through the South Garden, which offers a breath of fresh air after the grandeur inside.

One of the things we appreciate here is the self-guided component. It allows you to linger in the rooms that catch your eye without feeling rushed by a tour guide. However, as one reviewer noted, the crowds can be significant, which might slow things down. “HUGE crowds at each location so the group entry appeared to save a lot of waiting,” says Harry_S, pointing out how busy these sites get.

After your Palace visit, you’ll have a little time to make your way back to the original meeting point in Victoria for the Windsor Castle leg of the trip. The transfer is included, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. Windsor Castle, a working royal residence and the Queen’s preferred weekend home, offers a comprehensive tour of its interiors. Once there, you’ll enjoy audio guides in multiple languages — an added convenience for international visitors. The highlights include the lavish State Apartments, with their impressive art collections, and St. George’s Chapel, which is the final resting place of several monarchs, including Henry VIII.

What’s particularly appealing about Windsor is its location on a lush wooded hill overlooking the Thames, making it a lovely spot to walk around and take in the scenery. The artworks and architecture give a real sense of regal tradition, and the chapel adds a hauntingly atmospheric touch. As one reviewer mentions, “Steeped in history, Windsor Castle is easy to see why it’s a favorite for the Royals.”

The tour includes audio guides—a smart choice for those who prefer to explore at their own pace rather than being dictated by a guide’s commentary. Still, 2 hours inside Windsor might seem a little tight for some, especially if you’re a history buff. Be aware that Windsor Castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so if your schedule aligns with those days, you’ll explore the town instead.

Transportation and Logistics: The Nuts and Bolts

The logistics of this tour are straightforward. The coach ride from Victoria to Windsor is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the roughly 1-hour drive. The start time of 9:45 am gets you a full day of exploring but also means an early wake-up for some travelers.

The group size maxes out at 52 travelers, which can feel a bit crowded at busy attractions but is still manageable. The meeting points are clearly specified, and the pickup and drop-off are organized, though one review points out that the drop point might not be the most convenient, as it’s three stations away from the departure point.

Since the tour cannot be canceled once booked, make sure your plans are firm, especially considering the 24-hour cancellation window for a full refund. Also, mobility access can be arranged, but it’s best to contact the organizer beforehand if you need assistance.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $137.56 per person, this tour isn’t inexpensive, but it offers a lot of value for those wanting to see both Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle without the hassle of arranging separate tickets and transportation. The entry tickets to both sites are included, which is a significant cost savings on their own, especially at Buckingham Palace during its brief public opening.

The self-guided format means you can spend more time at the attractions without feeling rushed, which many travelers appreciate. However, it’s worth considering whether the long day (over 10 hours) matches your stamina for sightseeing, especially if you’re traveling with small children or prefer more leisurely pace.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early to meet your guide and make the most of the Palace visit before crowds build.
• Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking through grand rooms and outdoor gardens.
• Check the schedule for Windsor Castle, especially if your visit falls on a Tuesday or Wednesday when it’s closed.
• Bring a charged mobile phone if you want to use the audio guides at Windsor.
• Remember, photography isn’t allowed inside Buckingham Palace, so plan your photos accordingly.
• If you have mobility concerns, be sure to arrange assistance directly with Buckingham Palace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive royal experience without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect if you enjoy self-guided exploration and want to control how long you spend inside each location.

If you’re okay with large groups and the possibility of crowds, and are prepared for a full-day outing, you’ll find this itinerary very satisfying. It’s particularly suitable for first-time visitors to London who want a solid overview of two of the most iconic royal residences.

However, if you’re seeking a more personalized or guided experience, or prefer to explore at a slower pace, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ Section

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Victoria to Windsor by air-conditioned coach is included, making the day much easier to manage.

Can I visit Buckingham Palace on my own?
You can only access the Palace’s State Rooms as part of this tour, and only during the eight weeks each year they’re open to the public.

What if I want to spend more time inside Windsor Castle?
The scheduled visit lasts about 2 hours, which is typically enough for the highlights, but if you want more time, you might need to explore on your own or look for additional tickets.

Are there any restrictions about accessibility?
Yes, clients that require mobility access should contact Buckingham Palace directly to arrange assistance. Pushchairs aren’t permitted inside the State Rooms but can be checked in.

Is photography allowed inside the palaces?
No, photography isn’t permitted inside Buckingham Palace, so plan to enjoy the sights without capturing images there.

What is the best time to take this tour?
The tour starts at 9:45 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing. Morning start times help avoid some of the larger crowds that tend to arrive later in the day.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. After that, cancellations aren’t accepted.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically targeted at families, the tour can be suitable for travelers of all ages prepared for a full day of walking and exploration. Baby-carriers are available for loan, but pushchairs aren’t allowed inside the State Rooms.

To sum it up, if you’re eager to see the interior grandeur of Buckingham Palace and explore Windsor Castle’s rich history at your own pace, this self-guided tour offers a well-organized, convenient way to do it. The included transportation and tickets make it a practical choice, especially for first-timers wanting a seamless experience. Just be prepared for a long day and potential crowds, and you’ll come away with some pretty memorable glimpses of royal life.