No trip to Windsor is complete without touring Windsor Castle, the world’s largest and oldest occupied castle. Since William the Conqueror founded it in the 11th century, Windsor Castle has been home to 40 monarchs and now is the official residence of King Charles.
It is open to travellers and tourists from Thursday to Monday throughout the year. For Windsor Castle tours, we recommend 2-3 hours so you can see everything, including the following:
- Gold
Well, without gold, Windsor Castle wouldn’t be a residence for the royal family. The ceremonial rooms that Queen Elizabeth II used to entertain her guests are more luxurious, and the Grand Reception Room is the most striking space. It is decorated with chandeliers and real gold, and the royal family once used it as the main ballroom.
The large urn that Queen Tsar Nicholas I presented to Queen Victoria in 1839 is one of the most striking pieces on display in the castle.
- Spectacular Interiors
A castle suitable for a king looks beautiful, and Windsor Castle will always live up to its name for being the oldest and largest castle globally with spectacular interiors.
There is a royal experience inside the castle when exploring lavishly decorated rooms, like the State Apartments that the royal family used, the private rooms of George V, and historical rooms designed for Charles 11.
- Fine Art
Windsor Castle is full of many amazing artworks. You will be wowed by Ruben’s and Rembrandt’s paintings. You will also see changing selections from the Drawings Gallery, including major works that Raphael, Michelangelo, Holbein, and Leonardo did.
- Queen Mary’s Doll House
It will be worth it to visit Queen Mary’s Doll House, which was constructed in the 1920s. According to those who have visited it before, it is one of the most magical residences, filled with many tiny objects that the artists and designers of the time designed.
The doll house is a small replica of an aristocratic home endowed with a garden, wine cellar, flushing lavatories, evening working lifts, and a tiny library. Its highlights include two major French dolls that Vuitton and Cartier designed and presented to King George VI by the French Govt.
- Windsor Great Park
The castle doesn’t need any introduction. However, the parkland surrounding the residence made for the royal family holds secret designs, which must be discovered. Spending a day at Windsor Great Park will be amazing as a couple or a family with a few kids.
There is a lot to see in Windsor Great Park. The Long Walk that leads down to the castle’s turrets is lined with chestnut trees and ancient oaks.
You will also find the most outstanding gardens worth exploring at south of the castle. For instance, the Valley Garden are a true feast for your eyes. With horticultural collections, this undulating valley of colours and shapes changes with the seasons – meaning the garden is never the same.
There is a lot to see and do in Windsor Castle, whether as a family or a solo traveller. From Windsor Great Park and Queen Mary’s Doll House to fine art, spectacular interiors, and beautiful gold pieces, you have solid reasons to visit Windsor Castle.