From London: Windsor Castle Full Day Guided Tour By Train

If you’re considering a day trip from London that combines history, scenery, and a touch of royal grandeur, a guided tour to Windsor Castle might be just the ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and spoken with folks who’ve experienced it firsthand. For those looking to explore Britain’s oldest and largest inhabited castle along with the quaint town of Windsor and nearby Eton, this tour ticks a lot of boxes.

What I really like about this experience are the convenience of train travel — skipping the hassle of driving — and the chance to see Windsor Castle up close with a guide who can bring the history to life. Plus, the optional visit to Eton adds a scholarly charm that’s worth exploring. That said, a possible downside is the fixed schedule; if you prefer more flexibility or want several hours inside the castle, you might find the timing a bit tight.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, royal fans, or anyone craving a culturally rich day out. It’s also a good fit for travelers who prefer small groups and guided experiences, making the day more personal and engaging. If you’re okay with a pace that’s busy but manageable, this could be a memorable outing.

Key Points

Convenient train journey from London simplifies transportation.
Includes entrance tickets to Windsor Castle, saving time and hassle.
Guided tour provides insightful commentary on royal history.
Visit to Eton adds a charming, historic town experience.
Typical duration is around 7 hours, including travel and sightseeing.
Limited group size enhances a personal experience, with only 8 participants max.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

Starting out at Paddington Station

Your adventure begins bright and early at Paddington Station, a familiar hub in London. The guide will meet you there, holding a sign with ‘Z-Ocean Tours’. From this point, the journey is all about anticipation — a scenic train ride through the English countryside en route to Windsor. The train departs around 10:00 am, arriving in Windsor around 10:45 am. The train ride itself is comfortable, and it offers a relaxed way to transition from the hustle of London to the tranquility of Berkshire.

Windsor Castle Exploration

Once in Windsor, you’ll head straight to the castle, without the need to queue, thanks to your pre-paid entry. Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, and it’s where monarchs still reside today. Walking through the castle’s grand State Apartments, you’ll encounter centuries of regal wealth and craftsmanship, each room telling a story. The highlight is the St. George’s Chapel, a gothic masterpiece and the site of royal weddings and burials.

The tour likely gives you about three hours to soak in the castle. If timing aligns, you could witness the Changing of the Guard, a ceremony that captures traditional British pageantry. One reviewer, Amanda, mentioned that “Vincent (the guide) was very informative,” which suggests you’ll get a good background on the significance of what you’re seeing.

Lunch and leisure time

Around 1:00 or 2:00 pm, you’ll take a break for lunch or coffee at one of Windsor’s cozy cafes. Keep in mind, lunch isn’t included in the price, so you can choose something that suits your taste and budget. Windsor has a charming array of eateries, perfect for a relaxed meal or just a quick coffee and pastry.

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Strolling through Eton

Post-lunch, the tour takes you on a leisurely walk to Eton, a town famous for Eton College. This part of the trip is about soaking in the atmosphere — historic streets lined with shops and old buildings, all steeped in academic tradition. Exploring Eton gives a nice contrast to the grandeur of Windsor Castle, offering a glimpse into everyday life in a town that has educated many notable figures.

Return to London

By around 4:00 pm, it’s time to head back to the train station for your return journey. You’ll catch a train back to London, arriving around 5:00 pm. That wraps up a full day of sightseeing, history, and scenic views, leaving you with plenty of memories and photos.

The Value of This Tour

At $290 per person, this tour offers a streamlined way to see Windsor Castle without the stress of navigating on your own. The inclusion of round-trip train tickets, a guide, and castle entry makes it a good value, especially considering how busy and popular Windsor is. Plus, the small group size (limited to 8) promises a more intimate experience, allowing for questions and personalized insights.

What’s particularly appealing is the balance of structured sightseeing and free time — you’re not stuck on a rigid schedule, yet you get enough time at key sites to appreciate them. The guide’s role in enhancing the experience, according to reviews, is significant; “Vincent very informative,” one reviewer noted, suggests that the storytelling aspect makes the day more engaging.

Things to consider

While the day is well-organized, it’s still a packed itinerary. If you prefer to spend more time inside the castle or explore Windsor and Eton at your own pace, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, since food and drinks aren’t included, you’ll want to budget accordingly for meals.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early to secure a spot, especially in peak season.
• Arrive a bit early at Paddington to find your guide comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking quite a bit.
• Bring a camera — Windsor Castle’s architecture and surroundings are photogenic.
• Check the schedule for changing of the guard if you’re eager to see it, as it may depend on the day.
• If you want to maximize your visit, plan for a sit-down lunch or snacks beforehand, since this isn’t included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a guided, hassle-free day exploring Windsor’s royal residence and charming surroundings. It’s ideal for those who enjoy historical sites, scenic train journeys, and small-group settings. If you’re pressed for time but want to see the highlights of Windsor and Eton, this tour makes it easy without sacrificing depth.

However, if you have specific interests in exploring every nook of Windsor Castle or prefer a more flexible schedule, you might find some constraints. Also, for families with very young children, consider whether the pace and walking involved match your needs.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip train tickets from London to Windsor are included, making logistical planning much simpler.

What time does the tour start and end?
It typically starts around 10:00 am from Paddington Station and ends around 5:00 pm back in London, but check availability for exact starting times.

Are entrance tickets to Windsor Castle included?
Absolutely. You get a ticket included in the price, so you can skip lines and head straight in.

Is there a guide with the group?
Yes, a live guide provides commentary throughout the day, making the experience more informative and engaging.

How big is the group?
This tour is limited to a small group of up to 8 participants, which enhances the personal touch.

Can I visit Eton College during this tour?
You visit the town of Eton, explore its streets and historic architecture. If you’re interested in Eton College itself, check if the tour includes a visit inside.

What about food and drinks?
Lunch and drinks are not included, so plan to bring some snacks or plan for a meal in Windsor.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, it can work for older children interested in history, but keep in mind the walking and pace.

Do I need to bring my own tickets?
No, all tickets and transportation are handled, and you’ll have your guide to assist you.

What’s the price of this tour?
It costs $290.00 per person, which covers train tickets, guide, and castle entry.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a seamless way to explore Windsor Castle and the historic town of Windsor from London, this guided tour hits many good points. It offers a manageable, well-organized day that combines the convenience of train travel with the depth of a guided experience. With a small group and included tickets, you’ll enjoy a more personalized visit that’s both educational and fun.

This tour is ideal for those who want to get a sense of British royal heritage without the fuss of planning every detail. It suits travelers who appreciate storytelling, scenic routes, and a balance of guided insight and free time. Just be prepared for a full day, and remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity along.

Whether you’re a royal enthusiast or just looking to see a quintessential part of the English countryside and history, this trip offers a solid, enjoyable way to spend a day outside London.

Happy travels, and I hope you get to enjoy Windsor as much as I think you will.

You can check availability for your dates here: