Windsor Castle and Tower of London Tour with Entry Tickets

Discover Windsor Castle and the Tower of London in a Day

This day trip from London offers an opportunity to visit two of the UK’s most iconic royal sites: Windsor Castle and the Tower of London. At 5 to 8 hours, the tour combines guided commentary, entry tickets, and free time at each location, making it ideal for history buffs and royal enthusiasts alike.

Starting from Earls Court, the tour transports visitors by air-conditioned coach to Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle, and the residence of King Charles III. After exploring Windsor, the journey continues to the UNESCO-listed Tower of London, renowned for its Crown Jewels, Yeoman Warders, and dark past.

A notable point is the inclusion of skip-the-line access, which saves time at both major landmarks, though it’s worth being aware of some logistical issues noted in reviews. This tour is especially suitable for those who appreciate guided insights and a structured schedule, but it may be less ideal for travelers with strict mobility needs due to the walking involved.

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Key Points

• Visit two major royal sites: Windsor Castle and the Tower of London, both with included entry tickets.
• Includes professional guide providing commentary in English.
• Departs from Earls Court with air-conditioned transport.
• Tour duration varies between 5 and 8 hours, depending on availability.
• Skip-the-line access at the Tower of London helps reduce wait times.
• Not suitable for mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Starting Point at Earls Court for Easy Access

The tour begins at Earls Court, Warwick Road, directly opposite the Warwick Road exit of the Earls Court Underground Station. The designated meeting point is at London Bus Stop C, making it straightforward for travelers to join the group. The tour ends back at the same point, providing a convenient location for onward travel or accommodation.

Visiting Windsor Castle: The Oldest and Largest Occupied Castle

Windsor Castle stands as the main highlight of the trip, celebrated for being the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle. It serves as the official residence of King Charles III and offers an inside look at St. Georges Chapel, where royal weddings and burials of 11 monarchs—including Queen Elizabeth II and Henry VIII—take place.

The State Apartments showcase impressive royal interiors, though they are not available on certain days. Visitors have free time at Windsor to explore the grounds further, shop for souvenirs, or admire the castle’s architecture and scenic surroundings.

Exploring the Tower of London’s Historic Fortress and Crown Jewels

The Tower of London, a UNESCO-listed fortress, promises a mix of history, legend, and dazzling treasures. The Crown Jewels are a major draw, with the opportunity to view the sparkling collection up close.

Yeoman Warders, also known as Beefeaters, lead guided tours that share stories of the fortress’s dark past involving torture, executions, and royal intrigue. Visitors can walk on the legendary Tower Green and enjoy free time to wander the courtyard and explore the exhibitions.

However, a review indicates a significant issue: the tour provider, Anderson Tours, failed to secure tickets for the Tower of London in advance. This resulted in wait times and refunds being delayed, suggesting that booking tickets separately online may be a safer option.

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Transport and Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

The tour includes transport by air-conditioned coach, ensuring comfort during the travel between London and the attractions. The meet-up and end points are at the same location, simplifying logistics for participants.

Since the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for possible rain with umbrellas or rain gear. The guided commentary is delivered via personal audio headsets, ensuring everyone can hear the guide clearly throughout the day.

What Is Included and What Is Not

The tour price covers entry tickets to Windsor Castle and the Tower of London, transport, and a professional guide. However, food, drinks, and gratuities are not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase meals during the day.

It’s important to note restrictions: smoking, flash photography, and backpacks are not allowed inside the attractions. St. Georges Chapel is closed on Sundays, and the State Apartments may be closed on certain days, so checking availability beforehand is advised.

Important Tips for the Day Trip

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, water, camera, and rain gear, especially considering potential weather changes. Security checks are part of the entry process, and queues for the Crown Jewels may form, so patience is recommended.

Since the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, those with specific accessibility needs should consider other options.

The Risks of Booking Through Anderson Tours

A notable downside is reflected in a review highlighting ticketing issues. Anderson Tours did not secure tickets for the Tower of London in advance, delaying the group and requiring last-minute arrangements. Travelers are advised to purchase tickets online separately to avoid such problems and ensure smooth entry.

Final Thoughts on the Windsor and Tower of London Tour

This full-day tour offers a comprehensive look at two of the UK’s most historic royal sites, with guided commentary and skip-the-line access. The easy logistics and professional guiding make it appealing for those wanting a structured visit.

However, potential booking issues with tickets, as highlighted by the review, suggest that pre-booking your tickets independently might provide greater peace of mind. The limitation for travelers with mobility challenges and the weather dependence are important considerations.

This tour is suited for history enthusiasts who value guided insights and ease of access, but travelers should be prepared for some constraints on flexibility and ticketing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include the Crown Jewels?
Yes, the Crown Jewels are part of the Tower of London experience, with included entry.

Is transportation provided between London and the attractions?
Yes, air-conditioned coach transport is included, departing from and returning to Earls Court.

Can I skip the lines at Windsor Castle and the Tower of London?
The tour offers skip-the-line entry at both sites, saving time during busy periods.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, rain gear, water, and a camera; food and drinks are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking requirements.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby