Highlights Explore Windsor Castle, Englands most famous castle and one of the official residences of the Queen, and represents 900 years of British history. Enjoy a self-guided tour and wonder around over 10.5 hectares and visit the magnificent State Apartments, furnished with some of the finest treasures from the royal collection. Take in the magnificent St George’s Chapel an active centre of worship, where Prince Edward was married and Henry VIII was laid to rest. Ticket Features: Instant ticket delivery Includes access to The State Apartments Includes access to Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House Includes access to St George’s Chapel Includes access to The Semi-State Rooms (September – March only) Audio guide in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, and Mandarin How big is Windsor Castle? Windsor Castle is the biggest house in the world, comprising more than 1,000 rooms, 13 acres of land, and more than 45,000 square metres of floor space. The castle was built by William the Conqueror following the Battle of Normandy and was originally made out of wood in a traditional motte-and-bailey style. In 1100, the castle became home to Henry VII, who set about extending the castle, replacing the wood with stone and turning it into a palace fit for a king. Which monarchs have lived in the castle? The castle has been home to some of England’s most famous monarchs, including Henry VIII and his father, Henry VII, both of whom were buried in the castle’s Lady Chapel. In total, 39 English royals have officially lived at the palace. Windsor was the favourite residence of Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert. Following Albert’s death, Victoria took to wearing only black and was often referred to as the Widow of Windsor. Today, the castle is home to Queen Elizabeth II and is occupied by the Queen and her husband, Prince Philip, every year during the Easter period. The castle is also the Queen’s residence of choice during her private weekends, along with Holyrood Palace. Visiting Windsor Castle The castle is open to visitors throughout the year, opening at 09:30 and closing at 17:15. In the winter months (March to October), the castle opens slightly later at 09:45 and closes at 17:15. The Changing of the Guard happens every morning between 11:00 and 11:30. Tours of the castle are extremely popular, particularly in the summer time, and usually take around 2-3 hours to complete. The Royal Wedding In May 2018, Windsor Castle hosted the royal wedding of Prince Harry and his bride, Meghan Markle. The wedding was officiated in St George’s Chapel, the castle’s official place of worship. Located in the Lower Ward, the Chapel was originally built in the 14th century by Edward VIII, before being significantly extended in the 15th century. The Church is now able to hold more than 800 guests and has been the location of many royal weddings, christenings and funerals, including the wedding of Prince Charles of Wales and Camilla Parker Bowles, as well as the christening of Prince Harry. In autumn 2018, the chapel will also play host to the wedding of Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank. Parking at Windsor Castle Working out where to park can be daunting, but there are plenty of car parks in Windsor’s town centre, as well as a park-and-ride service offering lifts to key attractions in the area. Bear in mind when driving into the town that traffic is temporarily stopped every morning while the guards make their way between the barracks. Please note: Windsor Castile will be open Easter Sunday, from 13:00. Why not also take a Windsor Sightseeing River Cruise or Dining Cruise?