Windsor Castle Private Walking Tour with Accredited Expert Guide

Exploring Windsor Castle with a private guide offers a personalized and detailed experience of one of the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castles. For $300.28 per group (up to 4 people), this 2 to 3-hour tour delivers an intimate look at the royal residence, home to King Charles III. Led by Sarah Slater, an accredited Blue Badge Tourist Guide, visitors gain expert insights into the castle’s history, architecture, and royal stories, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a deep dive into British royal heritage.

This tour boasts a perfect rating of 5.0 from 12 reviews, with 100% recommending it. Its popularity is reflected in booking times—most groups reserve around 93 days in advance, highlighting how well-regarded this guided experience is. The tour includes access to the castle’s most significant sights, with a focus on the State Rooms, St George’s Chapel, and key outdoor areas, all while providing the flexibility of a mobile ticket. However, guests should note that admission tickets are not included in the price, and they should purchase their Windsor Castle tickets (£30 for adults) in advance.

Key Points

• Private guided tour with an accredited Blue Badge guide for a personalized experience.
• Tour duration of 2 to 3 hours, covering the castle exterior, State Rooms, and St George’s Chapel.
• Includes expert commentary on the history, architecture, and stories of Windsor Castle.
• Access to the State Rooms, including the Waterloo Chamber and Grand Reception Room, with some restrictions on group guiding.
• Tour starts at Castle Hill, outside the Henry VIII Gate, and ends back at the same point.
• Admission tickets to Windsor Castle are not included but should be purchased in advance.

Windsor Castle: The Largest and Oldest Inhabited Castle in the World

This private tour begins at Castle Hill House, just outside the Henry VIII Gate, where Sarah Slater greets guests. Her role as a Blue Badge Tourist Guide guarantees a knowledgeable narration, as she shares insights into the castle’s construction, history, and the monarchs who have resided within these walls, including King Charles III.

Walking within the castle walls, visitors explore the Middle Ward, passing the famous Round Tower. The guide explains the significance of the Royal Standard flying from the top, indicating the monarch’s presence. Guests can enjoy views across to Eton College, adding to the outdoor experience. The outdoor section provides a taste of the castle’s impressive architecture and strategic position.

Inside the Castle Wards: From the Queen’s Dolls House to the Upper Walkway

The tour proceeds into the Castle Wards, where visitors are led into the State Apartments. The first highlight is the Queen Mary’s Dolls House, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. The guide shares stories about the craftsmanship and history behind this miniature masterpiece.

Next, the guide escorts guests through the King’s and Queen’s State Rooms, including the Waterloo Chamber, St George’s Hall, and the Grand Reception Room. Here, visitors see furniture, paintings, tapestries, and artwork from the royal collection. Though large group guiding isn’t permitted inside these rooms, the guide remains with visitors to provide commentary and answer questions, ensuring a rich understanding of what is seen.

Visiting St. George’s Chapel: The Oldest Chivalric Order’s Home

The final stop on the tour is St. George’s Chapel, a 15th-century masterpiece and the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter. Entrance to the chapel is included in the castle entry fee, with no additional charge. Visitors walk past the George VI Chapel, where Queen Elizabeth II is laid to rest, alongside her father, husband, mother, and sister.

As a working chapel, photography is not permitted inside, and the chapel is not open on Sundays. Despite these restrictions, the guide provides comprehensive narration about the chapel’s history, architecture, and its importance within the British monarchy.

Logistics and Practical Details for Visitors

The tour starts at Castle Hill House and finishes back at the same point, making it easy to plan connections to nearby attractions or transportation options. It is a private activity, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the intimacy and personalization of the experience.

Guests should be prepared to purchase Windsor Castle admission tickets (£30 per adult) in advance, as these are not included in the tour price. The tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed. Since the tour duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours, it suits those with moderate stamina and interest in history and architecture.

The Expertise of Guide Sarah Slater

Guests praise Sarah Slater for her exquisite knowledge and engaging storytelling style. Many reviews highlight her as a “walking historian,” who combines informative commentary with a friendly manner. Her training as a Blue Badge Tourist Guide and her Windsor & Eton endorsement ensure you receive a top-quality guided experience, with impeccable timing and a personal touch.

She remains with guests throughout the tour, providing answers to questions and ensuring that the experience is both educational and enjoyable. Reviewers describe her as fun, sweet, and highly knowledgeable, making the tour memorable and worthwhile.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This private Windsor Castle tour offers a more personalized experience than group visits, with in-depth commentary not just on the architecture but the stories of the monarchs and royal history. The inclusion of St. George’s Chapel offers a spiritual and historical dimension often missed on standard visits.

The expert guide interaction makes a significant difference, especially since large group guiding is not permitted inside the State Rooms. The ability for the guide to accompany visitors and answer questions ensures an engaging tour that covers both the visual highlights and the stories behind them.

Final Thoughts on the Windsor Castle Private Walking Tour

This private guided experience provides a detailed and personal look at Windsor Castle, perfect for history enthusiasts and those wanting to avoid crowds. The expert narration by Sarah Slater enhances the visit, offering insights that go beyond standard audio guides.

The cost per group is reasonable considering the personalized attention, especially for groups of up to 4 people. The tour’s timing and pacing suit those interested in a thorough but manageable exploration of Windsor’s highlights.

The main consideration is the additional cost of entry tickets, which should be purchased in advance to ensure smooth access. This tour stands out as an informative, engaging, and well-organized way to experience Windsor Castle with a knowledgeable guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance tickets to Windsor Castle included in the tour?
No, tickets are not included; guests must purchase them separately in advance.

How long does the tour last?
The total tour duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; however, the tour involves walking and standing, so plan accordingly.

Can I take photos inside the State Rooms?
No, photography is not permitted inside the State Rooms and Chapel.

When does the tour start?
The tour begins at Castle Hill House, outside the Henry VIII Gate.

Is this a group or private experience?
It is a private tour, with only your group participating.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most groups book around 93 days in advance, and tickets should be purchased ahead of time.

What makes this tour different from self-guided visits?
The personalized guidance from an accredited expert offers deep insights and stories that cannot be experienced alone.

Can the guide accompany me inside the State Rooms?
While group guiding isn’t permitted inside, the guide accompanies and converses with you to maximize your experience.

Is there parking nearby?
The tour starts at a location near public transportation, making access convenient.

This thorough, well-structured private Windsor Castle tour offers a rich, personalized experience that appeals to those eager for detailed historical insights and a comfortable, intimate viewing of this iconic royal residence.