Conquering Windsor Castle: Your Quest for the Royal Stamp (Without Getting Lost in the Moat)
So, you've decided to ditch the Buckingham Palace crowds and delve into the grandeur of Windsor Castle. Wise choice! But fear not, intrepid explorer, for this guide will be your trusty steed on your quest to witness the changing of the guard (or at least score that perfect Instagram pic).
Train Time or Thames Time? Choosing Your Chariot
There are two main ways to reach Windsor Castle from London, each with their own quirks and charms.
Train: The trusty train is your knight in shining armor (well, maybe a slightly smelly knight, but that's half the fun of public transport, right?). Both Paddington and Waterloo stations offer frequent services to Windsor, whizzing you there in under an hour.
Top Tip: If you choose Paddington, beware! A sneaky little change at Slough awaits. Don't panic, though, even a confused tourist can manage that. Waterloo, on the other hand, offers a direct shot, perfect for those prone to travel tunnel-vision.
Bus: For the budget adventurer, the bus is your loyal steed. It takes a little longer (think one Harry Potter audiobook), but the price tag is much kinder to your wallet. Plus, you get to enjoy the scenery (or catch some winks, no judgement here).
Car: For the independent spirit, there's always the car. Just be prepared for a bit of traffic and the age-old question: "Sat Nav or my terrible sense of direction?"
Important Note: Parking near Windsor Castle can be a bit of a royal nightmare, so plan accordingly.
Arriving in Style (or Not So Much)
Train: Both Windsor & Eton Riverside and Windsor & Eton Central stations will get you close to the castle. Just be prepared for a short walk (with a slight hill at Riverside, just to keep things interesting).
Bus: The bus will drop you off near the castle, so you can waltz right in (or shuffle, depending on how tired your feet are).
Car: Finding parking will be your first challenge. But hey, once you've conquered that, you're practically royalty!
How to Not Get Eaten by a Royal Guard (They Frown Upon That Sort of Thing)
- Opening Times: Check the opening times before you go. Nobody likes a disappointed tourist (except maybe the ravens... those guys are shady).
- Dress Code: There's no strict dress code, but dressing respectfully is always a good idea.
Top Tip: If you see a particularly grumpy-looking guard, it's probably best not to ask for directions while simultaneously attempting a selfie with their helmet.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Aspiring Royal Tourist
How to save money on your trip?
- Consider a travel card for unlimited travel on public transport in London.
- Pack a picnic lunch to avoid the tourist traps (just don't feed the ravens... they're fiesty little beggars).
How long does it take to get to Windsor Castle?
- Train: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the station and any sneaky changes.
- Bus: Around 1.5 hours.
How do I get tickets to Windsor Castle?
- Book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment (and queues).
How to get around Windsor itself?
- The town is quite walkable, but there are also buses available if your feet need a rest.
Is Windsor Castle haunted?
- That's a question for the ravens, and they're not known for spilling royal secrets.
