How long is the journey from London to Windsor?

The estimated travel time from London to Windsor by train is about 1 hour and 25 minutes each way.

What is the entry cost for Windsor Castle?

Entry to Windsor Castle is estimated at $25–$35 per person, with free admission for children under 5. Confirm current pricing when booking your tickets.

Is the Thames Riverside Walk suitable for strollers?

Yes, the Thames Riverside Walk near Windsor Bridge is described as a gentle, stroller-friendly path.

What time should we leave London for this itinerary?

You should plan to leave London by 9:00 AM to arrive in Windsor around 10:25 AM.

Where is the recommended lunch spot in Windsor?

Lunch is recommended at Gibson's Brasserie, which is close to Windsor Castle and offers family-friendly dining options. Consider making a reservation for a guaranteed table.

The Long Walk leading up to Windsor Castle

Photo: Margaret Riseley / Unsplash

Day plan

Windsor Day Trip from London

Enjoy a perfect day out, soaking in royal history and picturesque riverside charm, all within easy reach of London.

Leave: 9:00 AM
Back by: 6:00 PM
Travel: About 1 h 25 min each way
Travelers: Families

Drive times estimated from distance · Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Windsor from London: about 1 h 25 min each way by train · best for 2 adults and 2 kids (6–9) · hours checked for Saturday.

$100–$140

The total covers getting around and tickets and tours for the whole party, plus food, gas and parking estimated in the breakdown below.

Things to do

Windsor Castle · State Apartments & grounds (Day 1)
Changing the Guard viewing · Windsor Castle forecourt (Day 1)
Thames Riverside Walk · Windsor Bridge (Day 1)
Back in London (Day 1)

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Why this plan works

A relaxed, family-paced day that centres on Windsor Castle, a guarded-ceremony viewing and an easy riverside stroll with a late family lunch in town.

Open this day in Google Maps

9:00 AM
Head out · London → Windsor
9:00 AM
About 1 h 25 min (estimated travel time). Leave London by 9:00 AM, arrive around 10:25 AM.
10:40 AM
Windsor Castle · State Apartments & grounds
10:40 AM
This is Windsor’s main history hub and sets the context for the guard ceremony and the rest of your day.
Book ahead · Timed-entry tickets usually release a month or two ahead; confirm with the venue
Start your visit at the main ticket desk and follow the family-friendly route through the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel and castle precincts at an easy pace.
12:50 PM
Changing the Guard viewing · Windsor Castle forecourt
12:50 PM
A classic piece of pageantry that families enjoy and that complements the castle visit.
Watch the guard ceremony from the castle forecourt or nearby public viewing points—check the ceremony schedule before you leave for timing.
1:30 PM
Lunch · Gibson's Brasserie
1:30 PM
Close to the castle with a menu and space suited to families with children aged 6–9.
Family-friendly brasserie near the castle serving classic British dishes and kids’ options; reserve if you want a guaranteed table for four.
2:45 PM
Thames Riverside Walk · Windsor Bridge
2:45 PM
An easy, scenic wander that satisfies the family’s wish to wander without using the closed Great Park.
A gentle, stroller-friendly riverside walk along the Thames with views back to the castle and boats passing beneath Windsor Bridge.
3:55 PM
Snack & farewell treat · Windsor Chocolate Shop (or similar)
3:55 PM
A quick, kid-pleasing stop within a short walk of Windsor central station before your return train.
Grab a family treat and drinks near the station so everyone has something for the journey back to London.
4:15 PM
Head back · Windsor → London
4:15 PM
About 1 h 25 min (estimated travel time).
5:40 PM
Back in London
5:40 PM
20 min to spare before 6:00 PM.

If you fall behind

What to cut if you fall behind: Thames Riverside Walk · Windsor Bridge

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Bookings & costs

$100–$140

0 of 1 bookable items booked

Food not included: about $100, listed below

0 of 1 bookable items booked

Locked in

paid or reserved

Still to book

$120

est. $100–$140 · 1 items

Gas & parking

est. $0

Booked prices are exact. Everything else is an estimate.

Know before you go

Practical notes for this trip — the things worth sorting before you leave.

Getting around & driving

Book advance tickets on the train from Paddington or Waterloo for the 9:00 departure and check National Rail for platform changes on the morning of travel.
Time-sensitive

Booking windows & timing

Buy Windsor Castle tickets in advance where possible and confirm entry times for your date to avoid queues at the ticket office.
Time-sensitiveWindsor Castle

Crowds & timing

Confirm the Changing the Guard schedule the morning you travel (it runs on a set schedule that can change) and plan to arrive at Windsor Castle early if you'd like a good view.
Time-sensitiveWindsor Castle

Weather & packing

April in Windsor can be cool and showery; pack a lightweight waterproof layer and a small foldable umbrella for the riverside stroll and castle courtyards.

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Questions about this plan

How long is the journey from London to Windsor?: The estimated travel time from London to Windsor by train is about 1 hour and 25 minutes each way.
What is the entry cost for Windsor Castle?: Entry to Windsor Castle is estimated at $25–$35 per person, with free admission for children under 5. Confirm current pricing when booking your tickets.
Is the Thames Riverside Walk suitable for strollers?: Yes, the Thames Riverside Walk near Windsor Bridge is described as a gentle, stroller-friendly path.
What time should we leave London for this itinerary?: You should plan to leave London by 9:00 AM to arrive in Windsor around 10:25 AM.
Where is the recommended lunch spot in Windsor?: Lunch is recommended at Gibson's Brasserie, which is close to Windsor Castle and offers family-friendly dining options. Consider making a reservation for a guaranteed table.