Windsor day trip from London
Windsor works best with the castle as your anchor and the town and river around it. Check castle opening arrangements before choosing your travel day, then reserve a visit that leaves room for the Long Walk and a short crossing into Eton. Both Windsor stations are close to the center, so you can make the outing on foot once you arrive.
At a glance
- Getting there
- Train via Slough, About 45 to 60 minutes from Paddington
- Book ahead
- Windsor Castle admission
- Tours
- Day trips on Viator
How to get to Windsor from London
Train via Slough, About 45 to 60 minutes from Paddington
Take a Great Western train or the Elizabeth line from Paddington to Slough, then change for Windsor and Eton Central. Check connection times when choosing your departure. From the station, walk through the shopping area toward the castle entrance.
Direct train, About an hour from Waterloo
Take a direct train from Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Riverside. Walk uphill through the town toward the castle. This route avoids a change at Slough and is convenient if your London accommodation is near Waterloo.
What to see in Windsor
Windsor Castle
Make the castle your first substantial stop and check which interiors are accessible on your chosen day. Security and the walk through the grounds mean you should avoid arranging another timed activity immediately afterwards.
St George's Chapel
Check the chapel's visitor arrangements separately from the castle's opening information. It remains a working place of worship, so services can affect access and the atmosphere calls for a quiet visit.
The Long Walk
Walk from the town toward the castle end of the Long Walk for the long, straight view into Windsor Great Park. A short out-and-back section gives you the perspective without committing to a lengthy walk.
Eton High Street
Cross Windsor Bridge on foot and follow Eton High Street away from the river. The change from Windsor's castle approach to a narrower high street makes a useful final stroll before returning to your station.
Go on your own, or take a tour?
Go independently if you want several hours at the castle and freedom to walk by the river afterwards. The two rail routes make this straightforward. A tour can suit travelers who prefer organized transport, but check how much time it allows in Windsor and whether castle admission is included.
Tips for the day
- Check the Royal Collection Trust site before buying transport, as castle and chapel access can differ.
- Keep your return station in mind when finishing in Eton, since Riverside and Central sit on different sides of the town center.
Windsor day trip from London
Can I visit Windsor without entering the castle?
Yes. The town, river crossing to Eton and a section of the Long Walk make an outdoor outing, although the castle interiors are the main reason many visitors travel.
Which Windsor station should I use?
Choose Central for the route via Slough or Riverside for direct trains from Waterloo. Both are walkable from the castle, so your London starting point usually decides.
Can I visit the chapel whenever the castle opens?
Do not assume the same access applies. Check the chapel's specific visitor information and service arrangements before building your day around an interior visit.