A full-day private tour from London takes you to Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace, two of the most iconic royal residences in England. Priced at $938.52 per group (up to 5 people), this 8-hour experience offers a personalized visit with door-to-door transport, making it a convenient choice for those wanting a comprehensive day of royal history without the hassle of crowds. The tour departs at 10:00 am and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, along with a private driver and guide.

While the guide’s commentary aims to deepen your understanding of British monarchy and architecture, some reviews suggest that guide quality can vary. The tour is ideal for history buffs eager to see Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace efficiently, but travelers should be aware that admission fees are not included, and the comfort of the vehicle has drawn mixed opinions.

Key Points

Visit two major royal sites in one day: Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace
Private tour offers undivided attention from your driver and guide
Door-to-door transport simplifies logistics and saves time
Guide commentary provides stories about Henry VIII and notable artwork
Admission tickets are not included, so budget accordingly
Tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness who value personalized attention

Windsor Castle: The Queen’s Weekend Retreat

The tour begins with a visit to Windsor Castle, which lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Known as Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite weekend home, Windsor Castle is famous for its stately architecture and historic significance. Visitors can admire the State Apartments—which house rare artwork by Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt—though admission tickets are not included in the tour fee. The walk through the castle grounds offers a glimpse into royal life, with the opportunity to see the Garter Throne and St George’s Chapel.

This stop is well-paced, giving enough time to explore the exterior and key sights. However, it’s important to plan for additional expenses if you want to go inside, and be prepared for moderate walking, which is manageable for most visitors.

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in London

Hampton Court Palace: Henry VIII’s Grand Residence

Next, the itinerary takes you to Hampton Court Palace, where you spend about 2 hours exploring. This palace is famed for its Tudor architecture and a fascinating history linked to Henry VIII. Your guide shares entertaining stories about the king’s life and the palace’s royal court. The State Apartments showcase remarkable artwork by masters like Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci, adding richness to the experience.

Since admission fees are not included, visitors may choose to explore specific rooms or exhibitions on their own. The sprawling grounds and historic kitchens offer plenty to see, but the pace is designed to cover highlights rather than an exhaustive tour.

Transportation and Group Size: Comfort and Privacy

This tour’s strength lies in its private vehicle, which transports your group directly between sites. The vehicle size has attracted some criticism, as reviews mention it being less comfortable and smelling of cigarette smoke—a potential issue for sensitive noses. The door-to-door pickup and drop-off help make the experience smooth, especially for those unfamiliar with London traffic or public transit.

With a maximum of 5 people, the tour provides a personalized experience, allowing the guide to tailor commentary and focus on your interests. However, the small vehicle can be a drawback if you’re used to more spacious transport.

Guide and Commentary: Varied Experiences

The guide’s storytelling covers key historical figures like Henry VIII and features artwork highlights. Some reviews note that the guide’s English may be not as fluent as expected, and attentiveness can vary. This might impact the overall enjoyment for visitors seeking a highly engaging or detailed narrative.

Despite this, the personalized nature of the tour ensures that questions can be asked directly, and the guide can focus on your interests—if attentiveness is sufficient.

Pricing and Booking: What You Need to Know

At $938.52 per group, this tour is priced to include private transport and personalized service. Since admission fees are not included, travelers should budget for entry tickets to the castles separately. Booking about two weeks in advance is typical, ensuring availability for your preferred date.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, providing some flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

While in London, here are other experiences we've covered

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as both sites involve some walking and standing. While the vehicle offers convenient transportation, accessibility details beyond this are not specified, so travelers with specific needs should inquire directly.

Comparing to Other London Day Trips

This private tour offers a more intimate and flexible experience compared to group excursions. However, the cost may be a consideration, especially given additional entrance fees. For those seeking a personalized, door-to-door visit of two major royal palaces, this tour provides a rundown, but the guide quality and vehicle comfort are aspects to weigh.

Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace: Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts eager to see royal residences without the hassle of individual planning. The personalized service suits visitors who value direct interaction with their guide and prefer door-to-door convenience.

However, those who prioritize guide expertise or seek luxurious transport might find the vehicle comfort and guide quality variable, based on reviews.

Ready to Book?

Private Full Day tour of Windsor castle and Hampton court palace from London

3.5

“The two venues were spectacular but the guide was not. His English was poor and he was not attentive to his audience.The car was way too small for …”

— Arthur H, Jul 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The private transportation, guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Entrance fees for Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace are not included.

How long is the visit to each site?
You spend approximately 1 hour 30 minutes at Windsor Castle and 2 hours at Hampton Court Palace.

Are entrance tickets purchased separately?
Yes, travelers need to buy admission tickets separately for each site.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness; walking and standing are involved. Accessibility details are not specified, so inquire beforehand if needed.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 5 people per booking, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Henry VIII?
Yes, the guide shares stories about Henry VIII and the history of the palaces, though some reviews question the English fluency.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, water, and extra funds for entrance fees and food or drinks if desired.

How do I confirm my booking?
Booking confirmation is received at the time of reservation. Contact details like phone (+447738267426) or email ([email protected]) are available for inquiries.

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to London?
Yes, it offers a convenient way to see two major royal sites with private transport, making it suitable for those new to London.

This private full-day tour provides a personalized, efficient way to explore Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace, perfect for those wanting a guided, hassle-free experience. While some aspects like vehicle comfort and guide fluency vary, the overall package offers a solid introduction to England’s royal history for history lovers willing to manage extra expenses for admissions.