In addition to state funerals, Windsor Castle has also been home to royal weddings. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married there on May 19, 2018, attracting up to 423,000 well-wishers to Windsor (according to estimations made by a lecturer-and-student team at the Manchester Metropolitan University). Among those in attendance were Oprah Winfrey, Elton John, and Serena Williams. Those who tuned in via live television remember the scenes of royalists cheering as the future Duchess of Sussex made her way along the Long Walk in a Rolls-Royce Phantom IV motorcar.
Windsor Castle holds endless bounds of modern and ancient history. If you’re looking to plan a visit for yourself, keep reading. Our FAQ is here to make your experience as seamless as possible.
FAQs
Who lives at Windsor Castle now?
King Charles III, who inherited Windsor Castle when Queen Elizabeth II died, splits his time between Clarence House, Windsor, Balmoral, and his other estates.
In addition to the royal family, Windsor has plenty of other occupants. According to the official website of the royal family, those who live at Windsor include: the titular head of the castle community, the constable and governor of Windsor Castle, and the dean of Windsor. You’ll also find the military knights of Windsor, the superintendent of Windsor Castle and his staff, the housekeeper and her staff, and soldiers who mount a permanent military guard in the castle.
Which is bigger, Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle?
Buckingham Palace is over 828,000-square-feet large, making it larger than Windsor Castle.
How far apart are Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle?
Windsor Castle is a little over 20 miles away from Buckingham Palace. It’s about a 40-minute drive or a one-hour train ride.
Which is older? Windsor Castle or Buckingham Palace?
Construction of Windsor Castle began in 1070, making it more than 600 years older than Buckingham Palace, which opened its doors as Buckingham House in the early 18th century.
Where is Windsor Castle?
Windsor Castle is located in its namesake town of Windsor, England. It’s in the Royal County of Berkshire, just south of the River Thames. Across the river you’ll find Eton and the famous Eton College, a boys boarding school founded by King Henry VI in 1440. Both Prince William and Prince Harry are alumni.
What time is the changing of the guard?
Guard change at Windsor Castle takes place at 11 a.m. on certain days of the week.
Can you visit the state apartments at Windsor Castle?
The state apartments are open when the castle is open, with a few exceptions throughout the year when official state events are taking place, according to the Royal Collection Trust. “The state rooms are those where the sovereign carries out official duties. They are used today for ceremonies such as investitures or formal banquets”, Booth-Farmer tells AD.
Can you visit Windsor Castle?
The castle is open to visitors Thursday to Monday. Standard admission ranges from 15 to 30 British pounds. You can also take private guided tours of Windsor Castle and behind-the-ropes tours of Queen Mary’s dollhouse.