Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour from London

An Authentic Royal Day Out: Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace Tour from London

If you’ve ever dreamed of getting a glimpse behind the velvet curtains of Britain’s monarchy, this full-day tour from London offers a practical way to do just that. Priced at around $182.42 per person, with a typical 8.5-hour schedule, it takes you from the heart of London to two of the most iconic royal residences: Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace. Whether you’re passionate about history, architecture, or simply want to see where the royal family lives and works, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience.

What we really appreciate is how smoothly the logistics are handled—round-trip transportation to Windsor makes the day less stressful, letting you focus on the sights. Plus, the opportunity to explore the St. George’s Chapel and State Apartments at Windsor, combined with an audio-guided tour of Buckingham Palace’s stunning State Rooms, provides a real sense of royal grandeur.

A potential consideration is the timing—some reviews mention that Windsor can feel rushed, especially if you’re keen to linger longer in the castle and town. It’s a fast-paced day, so if you prefer to soak everything in at a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit hurried.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of royal England without the hassle of arranging transport or guides themselves. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen to cover both Windsor and London’s most famous palace in one day, making it perfect for first-timers or those with tight schedules.

Key Points

• Visit two royal landmarks in one day — Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace.
• Learn about over 900 years of royal history at Windsor, including sights like Georges Chapel and the State Apartments.
• Enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation from central London, saving time and hassle.
• Explore Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms and see the Royal Collection with an audio guide.
• Some reviews mention the time spent waiting or feeling rushed, especially at Windsor.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, enhancing the experience.
• Access to the Palace’s special exhibition adds a unique touch, with the exhibit changing yearly.
• The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as there are walking and standing involved.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Victoria Coach Station and the Journey to Windsor

Your adventure begins early at Victoria Coach Station around 7:45 am. This central starting point is convenient for most London travelers, and the coach ride to Windsor is air-conditioned, making the roughly 45-minute drive comfortable. During the trip, your guide (if you’re lucky, someone like Lisa or Tom, according to reviews) shares tidbits about Windsor’s long history and the Royal Family’s ties to the castle.

The journey itself sets a relaxed tone, giving you a chance to review your plans and get excited. Expect to pass notable landmarks like Harrods, one of London’s most famous department stores, which might inspire some window shopping later.

Windsor Castle: The Oldest and Largest Occupied Castle

Arriving at Windsor Castle, you’ll immediately sense the scale and significance of this fortress. Built by William the Conqueror in 1070, Windsor is the oldest continually inhabited castle in the world. Our group spent about three hours exploring the grounds, State Apartments, and the stunning grounds.

Highlights include:

• The State Apartments, which are still used for official ceremonies. Travelers often remark on the lavish furnishings and priceless artworks—paintings by Canaletto and Van Dyck, and fine porcelain are on display.
• The St. George’s Chapel, a Gothic masterpiece and the final resting place for Queen Elizabeth II. This chapel gained fame as the site of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding in 2018, adding a modern touch to its deep historical roots.

From reviews, many appreciated how guided commentary added context to the sights, although some found that not being accompanied inside the State Apartments limited the experience. Still, walking through the halls and gardens gives a tangible sense of royal life.

Windsor Town: A Charming Detour

After the castle visit, you can stroll through the quaint town of Windsor, often described as a perfect blend of history and charm. Some reviewers suggest that two hours could suffice for a relaxed visit, while others wish for more time to explore shops and cafes. It’s a good opportunity to grab a quick bite or a traditional cream tea, though food isn’t included in the tour.

Return to London and Buckingham Palace

Back on the coach, you’ll head into central London, passing by Harrods again before arriving at Buckingham Palace. The entire journey from Windsor to London takes about an hour, depending on traffic—so plan accordingly.

Once at the Palace, you’ll have about two hours to explore the State Rooms and enjoy the special exhibition. The audio guide makes the experience more engaging, helping you understand the richly gilded rooms, historic treasures, and art collection that include works by Canaletto and Van Dyck. The State Rooms are still used by the royal family for official events, so it’s a living history lesson.

Many visitors enjoy the chance to see inside the palace—something that’s quite limited during the Queen’s actual reign, but accessible to the public during certain times of the year.

Final Touches: The Atmosphere and Access

The tour’s structure means most of the time is spent exploring independently, with guides providing background stories and logistical help. Some reviews highlight very knowledgeable guides who make the experience lively and informative, though others mention that guides don’t accompany you inside the Palace or Windsor, which can be a bit disappointing for those hoping for storytelling at every step.

Access to the special exhibition at Buckingham Palace adds an interesting layer, showcasing a different aspect of royal life with exhibits changing annually.

Practicalities and Tips

• Transport: The air-conditioned coach makes the journey comfortable, and round-trip service is included, removing the hassle of train tickets or navigating public transport.
• Timing: Be prepared for a fast-paced day, especially at Windsor. Some reviews suggest Windsor can be done in less than three hours if you’re pressed for time.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate walking and standing are involved, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Booking: The tour is popular, often booked 76 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures you get a spot.
• Children: Kids under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for family outings if everyone can handle the walking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive yet manageable visit to two of Britain’s most iconic royal sites, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview, especially those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a straightforward day plan. Those who prefer a slower pace or wish to explore more deeply might find the schedule a little rushed, particularly at Windsor.

Travelers who are comfortable with walking and standing will get the most out of it, and history buffs will enjoy the detailed stories shared during the trip. Overall, it’s a convenient way to see the best of royal England in one day without the hassle of separate tickets or transportation logistics.

The Sum Up

This Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle tour offers a practical, engaging way to explore two of Britain’s most beloved royal residences. It’s well-suited for travelers who want an organized, informative experience with the comfort of included transport. The guided insights, combined with time to explore independently, make it a solid value for those interested in monarchy, history, or architecture.

While it’s not perfect—some may find the pace a little quick or the internal tours a bit limited—the overall experience is rich, memorable, and very much worth considering. If you’re eager to see the royal residences in a single day, enjoy stories from friendly guides, and appreciate the convenience of transport, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at Victoria Coach Station, so you’ll need to make your way there.

How long is the coach ride?
The drive to Windsor takes around 45 minutes. The total day lasts about 8.5 hours, including visits and travel.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included unless specified, so plan for a packed lunch or snacks.

Can I take photos inside Windsor Castle or Buckingham Palace?
No, photography is not allowed inside the State Apartments or Georges Chapel, which is standard for security reasons.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult and should be comfortable walking and standing for periods.

What does the tour include?
Admission tickets to Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms, a local guide, and air-conditioned transportation.

What if I want more time at Windsor?
The schedule is quite packed, so if you prefer a leisurely visit, consider exploring Windsor town on your own afterward.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking and layers, as indoor palace temperatures can vary.

Whether you’re a history lover, a royal enthusiast, or just want a hassle-free way to see the highlights, this tour provides a well-rounded snapshot of Britain’s monarchy—all in one appealing package.