Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Self-Guided Tour with Coach

Experience the Majesty of Britain’s Royal Residences in a Convenient Day Tour

This self-guided tour offers a practical way to explore two of Britain’s most iconic royal sites — Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle — without the constraints of a guided group. Priced at $137.56 per person, it combines round-trip transportation from central London with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. With a duration of approximately 10.5 hours, this tour is ideal for those who enjoy independent sightseeing but still want the comfort of transportation and pre-booked tickets.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the chance to see the interior of Buckingham Palace, which is only open to the public for eight weeks a year. The self-guided approach lets you linger in the State Rooms, marvel at the ballroom, and walk through the South Garden without feeling rushed. The included audio guides at Windsor Castle enhance the visit, making the history and stories come alive at your own pace. Plus, the coach transfer means you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport.

One thing to keep in mind is the limited access on Sundays — St. George’s Chapel is closed on those days, so plan your visit accordingly. Also, the crowd levels can be quite high, especially during peak times, which might slow your sightseeing somewhat, but the group entry helps minimize waiting times. This tour suits independent travelers who appreciate flexibility, enjoy self-paced exploration, and are comfortable with a packed schedule.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Self-guided tours allow you to explore at your own pace.
• Comfortable Transportation: Round-trip coach transfers from London are included.
• Exclusive Access: See the interior of Buckingham Palace during its rare open period.
• Historical Highlights: Windsor Castle and St. George’s Chapel provide deep dives into monarchy history.
• Limited Sundays: Chapel closure on Sundays requires planning.
• Crowds and Timing: Expect large crowds; group entry helps reduce wait times.

Exploring the Day in Detail

Starting Point and First Stop: Buckingham Palace

The day begins in Victoria, London, where you’ll meet your tour representative. From there, it’s just about a 10-minute walk to the gates of Buckingham Palace. Here, you’ll have a special timed entry into the State Rooms, a rare opportunity since they’re open only for eight weeks annually. We loved the chance to peer into the royal ballroom and throne room — rooms that are typically closed to the public — and walk through the South Garden with its neatly trimmed hedges and flower beds.

The self-guided format means you can linger on your own schedule, taking in the opulence of the decor, the priceless artworks, and the grand architecture. The audio guides available at Windsor Castle are similarly helpful, offering insights in multiple languages. One reviewer, “Harry_S,” noted that fewer crowds than at other major sites like the Vatican made the self-guided experience more enjoyable and less stressful.

Transition to Windsor Castle

By 1:30 pm, you’ll make your way back to the original meeting point in Victoria at your own pace to catch the coach to Windsor. The coach ride itself is a relaxing way to enjoy the countryside, especially if you prefer not to navigate public transit. The air-conditioned bus provides comfortable seating, which is a plus on busy days or in warm weather.

Windsor Castle: A Towering Landmark

Arriving at Windsor Castle, you’ll have about two hours to explore. The castle’s location on a lush wooded hill gives it a commanding presence, and its tall turreted walls are instantly recognizable. This is the Queen’s favorite weekend residence, which makes it a significant site for royal watchers.

Inside, you’ll find the State Apartments, decorated with masterpieces by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci — a true highlight for art lovers. The audio guide helps you understand the significance of each room and the stories behind the art. The St. George’s Chapel is a striking example of Gothic architecture, and those interested can visit Queen Mary’s Dolls House, which is surprisingly detailed — complete with working lifts, running water, and miniature wines bottles.

Note: Windsor Castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and if your visit falls on these days, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of Windsor town instead, which can be charming in its own right.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Timing: The tour starts at 9:45 am, so be punctual. The entire experience runs on a tight schedule but offers ample time at each site.
• Mobility: For those with mobility issues, advance booking is recommended for Buckingham Palace access, and check-in procedures are straightforward.
• Crowds: Be prepared for large crowds, especially at peak times, but group entry helps minimize waiting.
• Photography: Inside the Palace, photography is not permitted, but in the gardens and outside areas, you’re free to snap away.
• Food: The tour fee doesn’t include meals, so plan to bring snacks or lunch to enjoy during breaks.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Reviews reveal a range of experiences — some praising the stunning views and efficient entry process, others noting areas for improvement. “Rosemerryso” commented that the drop point for the tour could be more convenient, suggesting it would be better if the bus returned closer to the station they departed from. This highlights that while the transportation is included, it might not always be perfectly aligned with your plans.

Another reviewer, “Harry_S,” appreciated the self-guided format for its flexibility but noted the large crowds, which seem unavoidable at these popular sites. The group entry helps save time but doesn’t eliminate the crowds entirely, so patience and a relaxed attitude are helpful.

The Value Proposition

Considering the cost of $137.56, this tour offers reasonable value for the chance to visit two iconic sites without the hassle of independent planning or waiting in line. The tickets included mean no extra expense, and the coach transfer provides a stress-free way to travel between sites. If you love exploring at your own pace but dislike the tedious logistics of transportation and tickets, this tour hits a sweet spot.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers might prefer guided tours for richer commentary or more personalized insights, especially if they seek in-depth historical context. Still, for those who want flexibility, this is a solid option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for independent travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration but want the convenience of pre-arranged tickets and transportation. It’s ideal if you value stunning views of the castles, wish to avoid the hassle of booking tickets separately, and are comfortable navigating large crowds. Those on a tight schedule will appreciate the structured timing, but expect to move briskly between sites.

If your priority is immersive, guided commentary, or visiting during off-peak times, you might want to look for other options. But if you’re after a balanced mix of flexibility and convenience, this tour offers a reliable way to see some of Britain’s most noble landmarks.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers from central London to Windsor are included in the price, making it easy and comfortable to travel between sites.

Can I explore Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle at my own pace?
Absolutely. Since the tour is self-guided, you can spend as much time as you like inside the State Rooms and Windsor Castle within the allotted hours.

What should I know about visiting St. George’s Chapel?
St. George’s Chapel is included in the visit, but note that it is closed on Sundays for public visits due to church services, though worshippers are welcome to attend the services.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, photography is not permitted inside Buckingham Palace, and pushchairs are not allowed in the State Rooms — they must be checked in at the entrance.

What are the main benefits of this tour?
You’ll enjoy beautiful views, skip the line with group entry, and have the freedom to explore at your own pace, all while traveling comfortably on an air-conditioned coach.

Does this tour work for travelers with mobility issues?
Travelers with mobility needs should contact Buckingham Palace directly to ensure accessibility. The tour itself is designed for most travelers, but some restrictions may apply at the palace.

To sum it up, this self-guided Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle tour strikes a fine balance for those who value independent exploration combined with convenient transport. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want to avoid guided commentary but still appreciate the ease of pre-arranged tickets and transfers. Expect to see stunning interiors, iconic views, and a flexible schedule — making it a worthwhile choice for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike who want an authentic, relaxed royal experience.