Windsor Castle was a favourite royal residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen spent most of her private weekends at Windsor Castle and took up official residence for a month in the spring for Easter Court, and for a week each June, when she attended Royal Ascot and the service of the Order of the Garter.
In the summer of 2022, Prince William and Kate Middleton moved their family from Kensington Palace in London into the castle in Windsor, more specifically Adelaide Cottage – a four-bedroom house on the grounds of Windsor Castle once tipped for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
The castle is used regularly for ceremonial and state occasions, including state visits from overseas monarchs and presidents. Some of the greatest treasures in the Royal Collection can be seen in the Castle's magnificent State Apartments.
Where is Windsor Castle?
The royal residence can found in Windsor, in the English county of Berkshire. Specifically, Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1NJ. The nearest train stations are Windsor & Eton Central or Windsor & Eton Riverside.
When was Windsor Castle built?
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world and has been the family home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years. The castle was established by William the Conqueror (r.1066-1087) who began building at Windsor around 1070. It took 16 years to complete. It was the official residence of the late Queen Elizabeth II and is still very much a working royal palace today, home to around 150 people.
The East Terrace GardenGetty Images
Can you visit Windsor Castle?
Yes, you can. Windsor Castle is open to tourists throughout the year, apart from Tuesdays and Wednesdays, when the castle is shut to visitors. The castle tour includes the State Apartmentsthat are used today by the royal family,the historical rooms that were built for Charles II and private apartments created for George IV. The East Terrace gardens opened to the public for the first time in decades a few years ago. The large formal garden features clipped yews, over 3,500 rose bushes and a lotus flower fountain, overlooking the Eastern facade of the castle. Designed for George IV by the architect Sir Jeffry Wyatville between 1824 and 1826, the East Terrace garden's purpose was to provide a pleasant view from the King’s new suite of royal apartments. Visitors can book to visit on weekends in August and September.
The Royal Archives, the Royal Photograph Collection, the Print Room, and the Royal Library are all based here. Windsor Castle is also home to St George's Chapel, the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter - the oldest order of chivalry in the world, founded by Edward III in 1348.
The entire castle complex (Lower Ward, Middle Ward with Round Tower and Upper Ward) covers 13 acres, so give yourself plenty of time for wandering.
