Windsor Castle Tour from London with Lunch or London Eye Upgrade

Planning a day trip from London that lets you step into royal history without the fuss of train schedules? This tour offers a full experience: a comfortable ride to Windsor, a chance to explore Windsor Castle at your own pace, and options to enjoy a hearty pub lunch or panoramic views from the London Eye. At around $133, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to combine culture, history, and a bit of leisure in one day.

We appreciate how this tour simplifies logistics—no train lines or long waits, just a coach ride and your own time inside the castle. The highlights of the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel are well worth the visit, especially since the latter is the resting place of 10 monarchs including Henry VIII. Plus, the free time to wander Windsor town allows for a relaxed stroll along the Thames, browsing local shops and soaking in the small-town charm. The optional lunch at a cozy pub like Jugged Hare or a London Eye upgrade adds a dash of variety, depending on what kind of experience you’re craving.

One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention that the lunch location is in London rather than around Windsor Castle, which might feel a bit disconnected if you expected to dine near the castle grounds. Also, as with many group tours, there’s a chance of feeling rushed or encountering minor organizational hiccups, but overall, this trip strikes a good balance of guided convenience and authentic exploration. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with flexible options for a memorable finish.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation means no train worries, just a comfortable coach ride.
• Independent exploration inside Windsor Castle offers flexibility and time to appreciate the highlights.
• Flexible options include a traditional pub lunch or a panoramic view from the London Eye.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides who share stories and history.
• Well-paced itinerary balances castle touring, free time, and leisure.
• Authentic local flavor with a hearty English lunch at a classic pub.

A Close Look at the Windsor Castle Experience

When we think about Windsor Castle, we picture a fortress that’s been standing for over a thousand years—originally built by William the Conqueror and still used today by the monarchy for state ceremonies and weekend stays. This tour makes it easy to get there from London, with the ease of a modern coach and a guide sharing stories along the way.

The Journey and Arrival

Starting early from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 am, you’ll board an air-conditioned coach that whisks you westward through London’s outskirts and into the lush landscape of Windsor. The journey lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to soak in some background on the castle’s history and its role as the world’s oldest occupied royal residence. As one reviewer noted, their guide, Leon, and driver Ricardo, made the trip enjoyable and informative, even if they encountered minor logistical issues.

Inside Windsor Castle

Once at Windsor, your ticket grants independent access to the castle, which is a real highlight. We loved the opportunity to explore at our own pace—there’s no rushing through the rooms, which can sometimes be a problem with large group tours. The State Apartments are breathtaking, filled with Rembrandt and Canaletto paintings, and the rooms are decorated with royal history and opulence.

The St. George’s Chapel is a Gothic masterpiece, with a serene atmosphere that invites quiet reflection. It’s also the final resting place of 10 English monarchs, including Henry VIII, making it a site of deep historical significance. A reviewer shared that they appreciated the chance to pay respects to the Queen at St. George’s, which added a personal touch to their visit.

Windsor Town and Free Time

After touring the castle, you’ll have free time to wander Windsor itself—an adorable town on the Thames. Here, you can browse local shops, visit the house associated with Shakespeare’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” or just enjoy the riverside views. Several reviews mentioned that the time inside Windsor felt just right—enough to soak in the atmosphere without feeling hurried.

Returning to London and the Optional Meal

Back in London, the tour concludes at Victoria with an optional British pub lunch at Jugged Hare—famous for its fish and chips. If you choose the London Eye upgrade, you’ll get a 30-minute ride offering sweeping views of the city, a fantastic way to cap off the day.

A notable point from reviews is that the lunch is often in London, not Windsor, so if you hoped to dine near the castle, this might be a disappointment. Still, the pub is praised for its traditional fare and cozy atmosphere.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Windsor Castle (3 hours):
This is the heart of the tour. For many, exploring the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel is the main attraction. The rooms are filled with historic art, and the atmosphere is regal but accessible. Some reviews mentioned that not all rooms are open when the castle is closed, but even then, the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House or the Dolls’ House can be visited instead.

Windsor Town:
The remaining free time allows you to enjoy a stroll along the Thames, browse shops, or take photos of the charming streets. Several travelers appreciated this relaxed period, describing it as a chance to absorb local life and find souvenirs.

Return to London:
The coach ride back is about an hour, giving you a chance to review the day or listen to more stories from your guide. Some reviewers appreciated guides like Magnus, who provided entertaining historical insights during the drive.

London Eye or Pub Lunch:
Once back in central London, the optional upgrade lets you choose between a hearty pub meal or the London Eye experience. The pub, just a short walk from Victoria, serves classic fish and chips—a perfect British ending.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 4.0/5 shows that most travelers found this trip enjoyable, especially praising guides like Magnus for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer pointed out that their guide made it possible to skip long lines and get a closer look at the changing of the guard—adding a bit of VIP treatment.

Several comments reflected on the value for money. Many felt that the timing inside Windsor Castle was sufficient but could be tight if you want to see everything, like Princess Mary’s Dolls’ House or additional exhibits. Others mentioned minor disorganization, particularly during the bus boarding or meeting point confusion, but nothing that spoiled the experience overall.

Food reviews for the pub lunch are mostly positive, praising the quality of fish and chips. However, some felt that the lunch location in London rather than Windsor was a bit inconvenient, especially if you hoped for a more integrated experience.

Practical Considerations

Transportation and Timing:
The air-conditioned coach offers a comfortable ride—important for early starts. The 6.5-hour duration balances guided sightseeing and free exploration, but it’s still a full day. Be prepared for some walking, as the castle involves stairs and uneven surfaces—a note for those with moderate physical activity levels.

Group Size:
With a maximum of 50 travelers, this isn’t a small-group tour, but reviews suggest the group is generally manageable, and guides do their best to keep everyone engaged.

Cost and Value:
At $133, including entry tickets and guide services, the price is reasonable for a comprehensive day trip to Windsor. The optional extras like lunch or London Eye add cost but can enhance your experience.

Booking in Advance:
Most travelers book about two months ahead, indicating its popularity. If you’re considering this tour, securing your spot early is advisable.

The Sum Up

This Windsor Castle day trip from London offers a well-organized, informative, and relaxed way to see one of Britain’s most iconic sights without the hassle of train travel. You’ll appreciate the independent exploration inside Windsor Castle, the chance to wander in charming Windsor town, and the optional lunch or panoramic views to tailor the experience.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a combination of guided insight and personal discovery. The tour’s flexibility, combined with knowledgeable guides and good value, makes it a solid choice—especially if you’re interested in royal history and authentic local atmosphere.

While some may find the timing tight or prefer more seamless dining options, most agree it’s a worthy investment for a memorable day outside London. Whether you’re a history buff, a royal enthusiast, or simply seeking a scenic escape, this tour delivers a balanced and enjoyable experience.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, castle exploration, and free time in Windsor.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers entry to Windsor Castle, visits to St. George’s Chapel, and, if chosen, a pub lunch or London Eye ride. It also includes transportation and the services of a professional guide.

Are there options for food and drinks?
Yes, you can opt for a traditional English pub lunch featuring fish and chips or a vegetarian option. Drinks are available at additional cost. The pub is located a 5-7 minute walk from the drop-off point in London.

Can I visit Windsor Castle if it’s closed?
If Windsor Castle is closed on your visit day, you might be able to see Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House instead, ensuring you still get a meaningful experience.

How much free time do I get at Windsor?
Most reviews suggest you’ll have enough time to explore the castle’s main highlights and enjoy a leisurely stroll around Windsor town, typically about 1 to 1.5 hours after the castle tour.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
The tour involves some walking and stairs, so it’s best for those with moderate physical activity. Travelers should be prepared for some uneven surfaces inside the castle.

What if I’m late or miss the bus?
Arriving more than 3 minutes late may result in missing the coach, as some reviews have noted. It’s best to arrive on time to avoid issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, this tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the London Eye upgrade worth it?
If you enjoy panoramic city views, the London Eye offers a spectacular perspective of London’s skyline. It’s a popular add-on for those wanting a memorable finish to their day.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Windsor Castle tour is the right fit for your London adventure. Whether you’re after history, scenery, or a touch of royal glamour, it offers a practical and enjoyable way to see the best of Windsor in a day.