Private Guided Tour of Windsor Castle PLUS and History

A private guided tour of Windsor Castle offers a personalized, in-depth experience of one of the most iconic royal residences in England. Priced at $815.66 per group (up to six people), this tour provides a 7 to 8-hour journey that combines the grandeur of Windsor Castle with additional historical and scenic stops. The tour departs directly from your London accommodation, with a driver and guide ready to lead you through Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite home and beyond.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its private nature, allowing for a flexible pace and personalized attention. The experience is enhanced by air-conditioned transport, Wi-Fi and USB ports for staying connected, and complimentary umbrellas for unpredictable weather. While the Windsor Castle entrance fee is not included (ranging from £15 to £30), the tour’s value lies in the guided insights and the ability to explore at your own speed. It’s ideal for those interested in royal history, architecture, or simply enjoying a tailored day trip from London.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a dedicated guide and driver
• Includes transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi
• Flexible itinerary with options for extra stops, including Kensington Palace for an additional fee
• Extensive visit to Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world
• Additional scenic stops at Runnymede and Windsor town for sightseeing and history
• All stops are walkable, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos

Windsor Castle: The Heart of the Tour

The core of this private tour is Windsor Castle, the official residence of the British royal family for over 1,000 years. With a sprawling 13 acres, Windsor Castle is the largest inhabited castle globally, and it’s where Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II spent much of her time and called home. Visitors have the chance to see the impressive Round Tower and observe the Royal Standard flag flying—indicating the King Charles III is in residence during your visit.

The guide provides in-depth commentary on the castle’s history, architecture, and royal significance, making the visit more engaging. The tour allows about 3 hours at Windsor Castle itself, though the admission ticket is additional. This flexible timing means you can focus more on sections of particular interest or move at a relaxed pace.

Scenic Walk Along the River Thames at Windsor

After exploring the castle, the tour continues with a 20-minute walk alongside The River Thames at Windsor. This stretch offers views of boats, local wildlife including King’s Swans, and a chance to enjoy the peaceful riverside atmosphere. Crossing the bridge that separates Windsor from Eton, where Prince William attended school, adds a historical layer to the walk.

This segment is a light and scenic break from castle touring, offering opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting. It’s included in the tour, with admission to Thames Charters provided, emphasizing the scenic and leisurely feel of this part of the experience.

Exploring Windsor Town’s Charm

Leaving Windsor Castle behind, the tour takes about 30 minutes to stroll through the town of Windsor itself. This area features quaint streets, boutique shops, and the smallest street in the UK, perfect for quick photo stops. The guide sheds light on Windsor’s royal connections and local stories, making this a lively exploration.

Among the sights is a view of Frogmore, the former residence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. This adds a personal glimpse into royal life beyond the castle grounds. The town walk is relaxed, with enough time to soak in the historic ambiance and maybe pick up a souvenir.

Runnymede and Historic Memorials

One of the highlights outside Windsor is the visit to Runnymede National Trust, either en route to or returning from Windsor. Here, visitors see the JFK Memorial, an acre of land gifted to the US by the UK to honor John F. Kennedy, and the Magna Carta Monument, erected in 1957 to commemorate the 1215 signing of the Magna Carta by King John.

This stop offers a 20-minute moment to appreciate two landmarks symbolizing democracy and liberty. Both sites are free to visit and provide important context to the foundations of modern governance. The guide shares insights about these iconic memorials and their significance.

Optional Stop at Kensington Palace

For those interested in extending their exploration, the tour offers an optional drop-off at Kensington Palace for about 2 hours. Located in the royal Kensington Gardens, this palace has been home to Princess Diana and the residence of Prince William and Kate Middleton before their Windsor move.

Visitors can enjoy the beautiful gardens or explore the Palace and museum (tickets are not included). The driver can advise on good places for lunch nearby, making this extension a flexible way to combine sightseeing with relaxed dining.

Comfort and Convenience Features

This tour stands out with its attention to comfort and practical amenities. The vehicle is air-conditioned, with Wi-Fi and USB ports, allowing guests to stay connected and charge devices during the trip. Complimentary umbrellas are available if the weather turns rainy, ensuring the day remains comfortable regardless of the forecast.

Parking fees are included in the price, and the tour is designed to maximize flexibility, enabling you to spend more or less time at each stop according to your interests. The booking process is straightforward, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.

The Guide and Overall Experience

The success of this tour largely hinges on the guide’s knowledge and personality. Reviews consistently praise Barry, the guide and driver, for his engaging storytelling, professionalism, and flexibility. He often enters Windsor Castle with guests, explaining the details directly, and offers personalized recommendations throughout the day.

Guests appreciate how Barry keeps the tour informative yet relaxed, sharing insights about the royal family, architecture, and local history. His ability to keep young visitors entertained and manage the pace of the day is frequently noted as a highlight.

Practical Details and Booking

This private tour is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the booking lead time averaging 75 days. Participation is open to most travelers, with service animals allowed and near public transportation options for easy access.

The price of $815.66 per group includes parking fees, bottled water, and the use of umbrellas, with optional extras like Kensington Palace and the Windsor Castle entrance fee paying separately. Flexible cancellation policies ensure peace of mind for booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private guided experience suits visitors who value personalized attention, want to learn about royal history from an expert guide, and prefer exploring at their own pace. It’s perfect for families, history buffs, or small groups seeking a seamless day trip from London without the hassle of public transport or large tour groups.

While the cost may seem high, the customized experience, comfort, and ability to tailor stops provide good value for those looking for a quality, intimate day out.

Windsor Castle Private Guided Tour Summary

This tour offers an in-depth visit to Windsor Castle, combined with scenic walks, historic memorials, and optional visits. The expert guide, comfortable transport, and flexible itinerary make it a compelling choice for travelers who want a personalized and informative day.

While the admission fee to Windsor Castle is not included, the overall experience, guided insights, and additional stops create a rich, memorable trip. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history, architecture, and royal connections without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, parking fees, Wi-Fi and USB ports, umbrellas, and bottled water. Entrance to Windsor Castle and Kensington Palace are not included.

Can I add Kensington Palace at the end of the tour?
Yes, the tour offers an optional drop-off at Kensington Palace, which lasts about 2 hours. The additional fee for the Palace is from £10.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, depending on how much time is spent at each stop and whether the optional Kensington Palace visit is included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention that the guide keeps children entertained and manages the pace well, making it suitable for families.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 75 days in advance, but availability can be confirmed closer to the desired date.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility challenges?
While specific accommodations aren’t detailed, the tour involves walking around Windsor Castle and town, so mobility considerations should be reviewed before booking.

Will I learn about the royal family?
Absolutely. The guide’s commentary covers Windsor’s royal connections, including Queen Elizabeth II’s residence and Frogmore, as well as broader royal history.

How personalized is this tour?
As a private experience, it allows for customized pacing, stops, and questions, making it highly adaptable to your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking. An umbrella is provided, but bringing a jacket or layers is advisable depending on the weather.

Can I book this tour for a special occasion?
While not specified, the private nature makes it suitable for celebrations, anniversaries, or special visits. Contact the provider for tailored arrangements.

This private Windsor Castle tour combines expert guiding, flexible stops, and a comfortable journey, making it a well-rounded choice for small groups eager to explore royal history and scenic spots at their own pace.