Royal Windsor and Eton Riverside Private Tour from London

Discover the Royal Heritage of Windsor and Eton Riverside with a Private Tour from London

This 6-hour private tour from London offers an intimate glimpse into the historic heart of Windsor, with visits to the world’s oldest still-occupied castle, Windsor Castle, and the charming Eton Riverside. Priced at $832.39 per person, the tour provides private transportation, guided commentary, and entrance tickets to Windsor Castle, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a personalized experience with flexible timing.

The tour begins with a pickup from central London zones and features photo opportunities at iconic landmarks in Windsor and Eton. While lunch is not included, travelers appreciate the small group setting, which allows for a more relaxed and tailored visit. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making this tour well-suited for history enthusiasts, photo lovers, and anyone interested in royal sights.

Key Points

• Private, fully guided tour with exclusive focus on your group
• Includes entrance tickets to Windsor Castle, avoiding long lines
• Popular stops at Windsor Castle and Eton Riverside, with ample photo opportunities
• Approximate 6-hour experience, with flexible timing for sightseeing and lunch
• Pickup from London Zones 1-3 ensures convenient start and end points
• Good for those comfortable with moderate physical activity, as walking and sightseeing are involved

How the Tour Starts: Pickup and Transportation from London

The tour departs at 11:00 am with a private vehicle pickup from your London accommodation or designated meeting point within Zones 1-3. The journey to Windsor typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic, providing a comfortable start to the day. Travelers find the private transportation arrangement convenient and stress-free, allowing them to relax and enjoy the scenery en route.

The chauffeur is also a knowledgeable driver-guide, prepared to share interesting tidbits about the area and ensure smooth transfers. The entire group remains together, and the private setup guarantees dedicated attention from the guide throughout the day.

Exploring Windsor Castle: The Oldest Still-Occupied Royal Fortress

Windsor Castle opens its doors at 11:00 am, and your admission ticket grants access to the State Apartments and the grounds. The visit lasts approximately 4 hours, during which the guide brings the castle’s fascinating history to life—highlighting its origins from William the Conqueror in the 11th century.

You will see the Castle Walls, the Queen Mary’s Doll House, and possibly the Changing of the Guard ceremony, depending on the schedule. The castle has served as a royal residence, a home to 39 monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth II, and has been used for official entertaining and royal court functions. It has withstood sieges, made history, and remains a working royal palace—though some areas may be temporarily closed at short notice.

The entrance fee is included, saving you from long lines, and the guided commentary helps you understand the significance of each site within the 13-acre estate. The highlight is walking through this iconic symbol of monarchy, all while snapping photos of the impressive Gothic architecture and scenic surroundings.

Strolling Through Eton: The Historic Riverside Town

After the castle, the tour continues with a 30-minute drive across the River Thames to Eton, a town famous for its prestigious college and well-preserved High Street. The visit here lasts around 90 minutes, with the opportunity to explore Eton College, founded by King Henry VI in 1440. It is the oldest public school in England, second only to Winchester, and has educated many notable figures.

As part of the experience, you will walk along the quaint streets, admire the half-timbered buildings believed to date from 1420, and see the Eton Riverside area with its scenic views of the Thames. The town’s shops and antique stores are a treat for those interested in browsing unique finds and soaking in the historic ambiance.

While entry to Eton College is free, access may be limited depending on the schedule, but the guides provide plenty of interesting stories about the college’s long-standing tradition and alumni. This stop offers a perfect balance of historic architecture and local charm.

Photo Opportunities and Scenic Views in Windsor and Eton Riverside

Throughout the tour, numerous photo stops will highlight landmarks like the Castle, the Eton Bridge, and the Riverside with panoramic views of the Thames. The guides emphasize the best vantage points for capturing memorable shots of Windsor’s castle silhouette and the quaint Eton townscape.

These photo opportunities are an appreciated part of the experience, especially for visitors keen to document their visit. The scenic Riverside setting provides a peaceful backdrop to the historic sites, making it a favorite part of the tour for many.

Flexibility and Personalization in a Private Setting

One of the key strengths of this tour is its private format, which allows for customized pacing and personal interaction with the guide. Unlike large group tours, this experience offers more opportunities to ask questions and focus on specific interests related to Windsor’s royal history and Eton’s charming town.

The guides are known for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The separate tour guide and chauffeur option provides an extra layer of professionalism and attentiveness, ensuring that your day is tailored to your preferences.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a comprehensive visit, it’s important to note that lunch is not included, so travelers should plan for their own meal break during the 30-minute allotted time.

Since Windsor Castle is a working royal residence, some sections, such as the State Apartments, may be closed unexpectedly, which could limit access to certain areas. Travelers should also be prepared for moderate physical activity, including walking around the castle and town, and should have comfortable footwear.

The price point of over $800 per person reflects the private nature, guided service, and entrance fees, making it a premium option suited for those wanting an exclusive experience.

Wrapping Up: Is This Private Windsor and Eton Riverside Tour Right for You?

This 6-hour private guided tour from London offers a personalized and comprehensive way to explore Windsor Castle and the historic town of Eton. Its inclusion of entrance tickets and dedicated guide ensures a smooth, insightful visit without the hassle of large groups or long queues.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, royal fans, and photographers, the tour balances educational commentary with scenic sightseeing. The flexibility of a private arrangement makes it a good fit for those seeking a more relaxed, tailored day.

However, the higher price and the possibility of partial access to Windsor Castle at times should be considered. Travelers comfortable with walking and planning their own lunch will find this tour offers excellent value for a premium, personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers private transportation, admission tickets to Windsor Castle, a professional guided tour, and photo opportunities in Windsor and Eton Riverside.

How long is the visit to Windsor Castle?
The Windsor Castle stop lasts approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time to explore the State Apartments, grounds, and enjoy the scenic views.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, and travelers should plan to bring their own or purchase food during the 30-minute break.

What are the main highlights of Eton Riverside?
Eton Riverside features the historic town, Eton College (free entry), antique shops, and the scenic views of the Thames, all within a 90-minute stop.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the provider, Evan Evans Tours, with confirmation received at the time of booking. The tour is non-refundable.

What is the physical requirement for this tour?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as some walking and sightseeing are involved around the castle and town.

Can I customize the experience?
Being a private tour, it allows some customization in pacing and focus areas, guided by your knowledgeable driver-guide.

What if Windsor Castle is temporarily closed?
Since Windsor Castle is a working royal residence, some areas may be closed at short notice, which could affect access but does not typically impact the overall experience.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, especially for those interested in royalty, history, and architecture.

How early should I arrive for pickup?
The tour starts promptly at 11:00 am, so arriving a few minutes early for pickup is recommended to ensure a smooth start.