Private Guide (Walking Tour of Windsor & Eton)

A private walking tour of Windsor and Eton offers a fantastic way to explore two quintessentially British towns packed with history, royal connections, and charming streets. Priced at around £10+ per person for tips, this 2-hour guided experience takes you from the impressive Windsor Castle to the historic Eton College and beyond, giving you a taste of royal heritage and local stories. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide — often described as friendly and passionate — who keeps the conversation lively and informative.

What we love most is how this tour balances major sights like Windsor Castle and Eton College with the little details that make the area special, like the Crooked House and Nell Gwynn’s House. The fact that the guide makes an effort to tailor the experience to what the group is interested in adds a personal feel that’s often missing from larger, more commercial experiences. Also, the opportunity to walk along the Long Walk and enjoy views of the castle from afar really highlights Windsor’s scenic setting.

A small draw is that entrance to Windsor Castle and Eton College is not included, which means you’ll need extra time to explore these sites on your own if you choose. This setup lends itself well to travelers who prefer a guided overview but want the flexibility to go inside the attractions afterward. This tour suits those interested in a compact, well-informed introduction rather than a deep-dive into British royalty or architecture.

Key Points

• In-Depth local insights from a friendly, passionate guide.
• Balanced itinerary: iconic Windsor Castle, Eton College, and charming local sights.
• Flexible timing: scheduled on Sundays with options to explore more afterward.
• Affordable price point with tips, emphasizing good value.
• Includes scenic highlights like the Long Walk and views of Windsor Castle.
• Limited access to inside Windsor Castle and Eton College, but plenty of stories and history shared.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Windsor and Eton: A Practical Guide

If you’re visiting Berkshire and want to get a true feel for Windsor and Eton in a short amount of time, this private walking tour is a solid choice. Let’s walk through what makes it special and what you should keep in mind as you decide if it’s right for you.

Starting at Windsor: Castle and Its Surroundings

The tour begins at Castle Hill, outside the famous Windsor Castle — a site that practically oozes royal tradition. Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Windsor Castle has hosted a total of 39 monarchs, making it the longest-occupied royal residence in Europe. While the tour does not include entry to the castle, standing outside gives you a sense of its sprawling grandeur, and the guide will share stories about its history, architecture, and how it functions today as a working royal residence.

One of the highlights here is the Crooked House, a curious little building dating back to 1592. Its leaning wall and charming exterior make it a favorite photo spot and a reminder of Windsor’s quirky character. The guide often points out other architectural details and stories behind these historic structures, ensuring you feel connected to the town’s long-standing heritage.

Next, you’ll visit the Guildhall, designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1689. This elegant building features a classic red brick façade and is known for hosting royal ceremonies and important events over the centuries. Here, the guide might share anecdotes about Windsor’s role in British royal life, making the history come alive.

Nell Gwynn’s House and the Long Walk

A short walk from the Guildhall brings us to Nell Gwynn’s House, linked to the famous 17th-century actress and mistress of King Charles II. It’s a charming reminder of Windsor’s connections beyond purely royal history, adding a touch of romance and intrigue.

The tour then takes a leisurely stride along the Long Walk, a tree-lined avenue stretching over two and a half miles from Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse statue of King George III. This spot offers sweeping views of the castle’s towers and battlements across the manicured lawns. It’s an ideal place for photos and to appreciate Windsor’s parkland setting.

Crossing into Eton: The Town and Its College

Crossing the River Thames leads us into Eton, a small town renowned worldwide for Eton College, founded in 1440 by King Henry VI. This school has educated many Britain’s Prime Ministers and prominent figures, making it a symbol of British elite education.

The guide will share stories about the school’s traditions, and despite limited access due to it being a private working school, you’ll get plenty of context about its historic Gothic architecture and the 15th-century wall paintings in the Chapel. While you can’t go inside, the exterior views and stories about the school’s influence are quite compelling.

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Authentic, Informative, and Personal

What makes this tour stand out is the personal touch from the guide, who seems genuinely excited to share Windsor’s stories. According to reviews, guides like Kip are knowledgeable, approachable, and attentive to the group’s interests — even in bad weather, they keep the experience engaging.

The 2-hour duration keeps things manageable, but it’s enough to cover the main sights with insightful commentary. Visitors should note that entrance fees for Windsor Castle or Eton College are not included, so plan to allocate extra time if you want to visit these sites in-depth afterward.

The Experience’s Value and Practicalities

This tour is particularly good for travelers who want a cost-effective, guided overview of Windsor and Eton. The tip-based system allows flexibility in how much you choose to reward the guide, with around £10 per person suggested, which tends to be reasonable given the quality of storytelling and local knowledge.

Because it runs only on Sundays, you’ll want to check availability ahead of time. The meeting point outside the Ivy Restaurant with the Black Hat is easy to find, and the tour ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for further exploration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a short, insightful introduction to Windsor and Eton, this tour will serve you well. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate local stories, scenic walks, and historical anecdotes rather than inside-the-museum experiences. The focus on royal sites and charming townscapes makes it particularly appealing for those interested in British monarchy and architecture.

It’s also a great option for families or groups who want a personalized experience without the large crowds. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge help bring Windsor’s history to life, making it a memorable part of your trip.

The Sum Up

This private walking tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local color. The fact that it’s led by a guide who’s passionate about Windsor’s stories and architecture makes the experience more engaging than a self-guided walk. While entrance to Windsor Castle and Eton College requires additional planning, the tour provides a well-rounded overview that’s perfect for a quick introduction or a gentle exploration for those with limited time.

Its affordability, flexibility, and emphasis on storytelling make it a good value for anyone looking to understand Windsor and Eton beyond just sightseeing. It will especially suit visitors who enjoy authentic, small-group experiences and want the inside scoop from someone who truly knows the area.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible and engaging for most ages, especially those interested in history and British royalty.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, especially since the tour runs only on Sundays and spots are limited.

How much does the guide charge in tips?
Guides usually appreciate tips around £10 per person, but it’s entirely up to you based on your satisfaction.

Can I visit Windsor Castle or Eton College after the tour?
Absolutely. The tour does not include entry to the sites, so you can plan to explore inside at your leisure afterward.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I wear?
Since UK weather can be unpredictable, dressing in layers and bringing an umbrella or raincoat is wise.

How long is the walk?
The entire tour lasts about 2 hours, covering significant sights but still manageable for most walkers.

This Windsor and Eton walking tour offers a practical, friendly way to connect with these historic towns’ stories and scenery. Whether you’re a history buff, a royal enthusiast, or just seeking a charming stroll, you’ll find this experience rewarding and a fine addition to your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: