Explore the grandeur of Britain’s royal heritage on this comprehensive full-day tour. Explore the splendor of Windsor Castle, home to the British monarchs for over 900 years, and marvel at the stunning St. George’s Chapel and lavish state apartments. Then, uncover the ceremonial functions of the British monarchy at Buckingham Palace, the former official residence of Queen Elizabeth II. With skip-the-ticket-line access and an expert guide, this tour provides an unparalleled look at the beauty and history that have captivated visitors for centuries. But the story doesn’t end there – as you’ll soon discover, there’s much more to this royal experience than meets the eye.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Tours In Buckingham Palace.
Key Points
• This full-day tour explores over 900 years of royal history, with visits to Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace.
• The tour provides skip-the-ticket-line access and a live tour guide, offering an in-depth look at Britain’s rich royal heritage.
• At Windsor Castle, visitors can marvel at the splendor of St. George’s Chapel and the sumptuous state apartments.
• At Buckingham Palace, visitors can explore the iconic State Rooms used for official functions and walk along the Royal Garden.
• The tour departs from Victoria Coach Station, with check-in starting at 7:30 AM, and lasts 7.5 hours.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour explores over 900 years of royal history, taking visitors to the iconic Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, two of the most famous royal residences in the United Kingdom.
At Windsor Castle, travelers will marvel at the splendor of St. George’s Chapel and the sumptuous state apartments. They’ll also have the opportunity to wander the picturesque town of Windsor.
The tour then moves on to Buckingham Palace, the former official residence of Queen Elizabeth II, where guests can explore the State Rooms used for official functions and walk along the south side of the Royal Garden.
With skip-the-ticket-line access and a live tour guide, this comprehensive experience provides an in-depth look at Britain’s rich royal heritage.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Buckingham Palace.
Visiting Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle stands as the largest continuously occupied castle in the world, boasting over 900 years of rich royal history. Visitors can marvel at the splendor of St. George’s Chapel, a prime example of Gothic architecture, and explore the sumptuous state apartments that showcase the castle’s lavish interiors.
Visitors can discover the intricate details and craftsmanship of the state apartments, once used for official functions. They can also wander the picturesque town of Windsor, located just a short distance from the castle.
Visitors can glimpse the iconic Round Tower, a prominent feature of the castle’s impressive skyline. They can also learn about the castle’s role in British royal history and its significance as a living monument to the monarchy.
Highlights of Windsor Castle
Visitors to Windsor Castle are greeted by the impressive Round Tower, a prominent feature of the castle’s iconic skyline that has stood as a testament to the site’s long royal history.
The state apartments within the castle showcase the lavish interiors once used for official functions, inviting guests to discover the intricate details and craftsmanship that have defined this living monument to the British monarchy.
The highlight for many is the awe-inspiring St. George’s Chapel, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that has served as the site of royal weddings and burials for centuries.
Wandering the castle’s grounds, visitors can soak in the picturesque town of Windsor, seeing the rich tapestry of British history.
Exploring Buckingham Palace
Typically, guests explore Buckingham Palace, the former official residence of Queen Elizabeth II, which houses the iconic State Rooms used for official functions and ceremonies. Visitors can wander through these grand rooms, admiring the lavish decor and artwork that adorns the walls.
Walk along the south side of the Royal Garden, taking in the stunning views.
See the royal guards stationed outside the palace, a quintessential British experience.
Imagine the grand events and ceremonies that have taken place within these historic walls.
Gain insight into the daily workings of the British monarchy and its role in modern society.
More Great Tours NearbyDiscovering the State Rooms
Adorned with ornate furnishings and priceless artworks, the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace offer a glimpse into the grandeur and ceremonial functions of the British monarchy.
Visitors can wander through these lavishly decorated chambers, where royal receptions and official state events have taken place for centuries.
The opulent Throne Room, with its gilded chairs and majestic fireplace, is a highlight, as is the magnificent Picture Gallery, home to an impressive collection of paintings by renowned artists.
The State Dining Room, used for formal banquets, and the elegant White Drawing Room, where the royal family gathers before events, also impress with their sheer scale and attention to detail.
Exploring these iconic State Rooms is a true highlight of any visit to Buckingham Palace.
Walking the Royal Garden
After exploring the lavish interiors of Buckingham Palace, visitors can now wander along the south side of the Royal Garden, where they’ll find lush greenery, winding paths, and stunning views of the palace itself.
The garden boasts:
- Meticulously manicured lawns and flowerbeds
- A variety of trees and shrubs, including centuries-old plane trees
- Ornamental lakes and fountains
- Opportunities to spot wildlife, such as waterfowl and butterflies
As visitors stroll through the garden, they’ll gain a greater appreciation for the private spaces enjoyed by the royal family and the scale of Buckingham Palace’s impressive grounds.
Tour Duration and Access
The Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace Full-Day Tour lasts 7.5 hours, providing ample time for visitors to explore the rich history and grandeur of these iconic royal residences.
With skip-the-ticket-line access, guests can breeze through the crowds and maximize their time at both sites.
The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide, ensuring an informative and engaging experience.
For added convenience, the tour departs from Victoria Coach Station, with check-in starting at 7:30 AM.
Visitors have the flexibility to cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance, making the tour a hassle-free option for experiencing the best of London’s royal heritage.
Meeting Point and Check-in
The Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace Full-Day Tour departs at 7:45 AM from Victoria Coach Station, Gate 18-20.
Visitors should arrive for check-in starting at 7:30 AM, allowing ample time for guests to board the coach and begin their royal exploration.
The meeting point for this tour offers several advantages:
- Centrally located in London, making it easily accessible for visitors
- Close proximity to public transportation options
- Dedicated check-in area for a smooth and organized start to the day
- Friendly staff on hand to assist with any questions or concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photographs Inside the Royal Residences?
Generally, visitors are permitted to take photographs inside the royal residences, but there may be restrictions in certain areas. It’s advisable to check with staff on-site for the latest policies before taking photos.
Are There Any Dining Options on the Tour Route?
The tour route includes several dining options. Visitors can enjoy refreshments and meals at cafes and restaurants located within Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace. Dining selections feature a range of traditional British fare and light bites.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Location?
The tour allocates approximately 2.5 hours at Windsor Castle and 2 hours at Buckingham Palace, allowing guests ample time to explore the royal residences and their historic attractions. The remaining time is for transportation and breaks.
Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for individuals with significant mobility issues, as it involves extensive walking and navigating uneven terrain at both Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace. Those with mobility concerns should consult with the tour operator.
Can I Extend My Stay at Either Location After the Tour?
Yes, visitors can typically extend their stay at Windsor Castle or Buckingham Palace after the tour. However, they’d need to purchase separate admission tickets and arrange their own transportation to remain at either location beyond the tour’s scheduled duration.
Recap
This comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled look at Britain’s royal heritage.
Visitors will marvel at the splendor of Windsor Castle, including the stunning St. George’s Chapel and lavish state apartments.
The tour then moves to Buckingham Palace, where they can explore the opulent State Rooms and wander the picturesque Royal Garden.
With skip-the-line access and a live guide, this 7.5-hour experience provides an in-depth exploration of the grandeur and ceremonial functions of the British monarchy.
You can check availability for your dates here: