Few places capture the majesty of British history like Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle. A favorite residence of the British Royal Family and the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II, it’s a must-see destination for visitors to the UK. Fortunately, getting to Windsor Castle from London is easy and you’ve got multiple options depending on your budget, travel style, and timing.
In this guide, we’ll break down each transportation option in detail, including travel times, approximate costs, and what to expect whether you’re commuting from Central London, a nearby city like Slough, or even London Heathrow.
Where Is Windsor Castle?
Windsor Castle is located in the historic town of Windsor, roughly 25 miles west of Central London. Despite its regal status, the castle is open to the public and accessible via train, coach, car, or taxi. Most visitors travel from London, either for a day trip or as part of a wider tour of royal and historical landmarks.
1. By Train — Fastest and Most Convenient
If you’re looking for speed and efficiency, the train is often the best way to get to Windsor Castle from London.
There are two primary train routes to Windsor:
- From London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central (via Slough)
- Duration: ~35–45 minutes
- Transfer: You’ll change at Slough
- Operator: Great Western Railway
- Duration: ~35–45 minutes
- From London Waterloo to Windsor & Eton Riverside
- Duration: ~55–70 minutes
- Direct service: No need to change trains
- Operator: South Western Railway
- Duration: ~55–70 minutes
Both stations in Windsor are within a 5–10 minute walk to the castle gates.
Ticket Price: One-way fares typically range from £10 to £15, depending on the time of day and how early you book.
Why choose the train?
- Quicker than driving during peak hours
- Direct access to the heart of Windsor
- Regular services throughout the day
2. By Coach Budget-Friendly but Slower
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a coach from London Victoria Coach Station is a reliable option.
- Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic
- Operator: National Express or other private coach services
- Fare: As low as £6–£10 if booked in advance
You’ll likely need to walk a bit further from the coach drop-off point to Windsor Castle compared to the train stations. But if you’re not in a rush and want to save, it’s a viable route.
Why choose the coach?
- Affordable fares
- Easy for group travel
- Scenic countryside views
3. By Car Flexible and Private
Driving offers maximum flexibility, especially if you’re planning to explore nearby destinations like Eton, Slough, or Ascot.
- Route: Take the M4 motorway from London, exit at Junction 6 for Windsor
- Travel Time: 45–60 minutes depending on traffic
- Parking: There are several public car parks near the castle, including:
- Alma Road Car Park (SL4 3HY)
- River Street Car Park (SL4 1QT)
- Windsor Dials Car Park (SL4 1RS)
- Alma Road Car Park (SL4 3HY)
However, keep in mind that parking can be limited during busy tourist seasons or royal events.
Why drive?
- Ideal for families or group trips
- Flexible schedule
- Easy access to nearby attractions
4. Taxi or Private Hire Most Comfortable
If comfort, convenience, and a door-to-door experience matter most, then taking a taxi from London to Windsor Castle might be the best option.
Estimated Taxi Fare:
- £70–£90 (one way) depending on pickup location and time of day
Travel Time:
- 45–60 minutes, subject to traffic conditions
Taxi Services Available in London
London offers a wide range of taxi services catering to every kind of traveler—from tourists to business executives. Some of the popular options include:
- Black Cabs – The iconic metered taxis of London
- Uber – App-based, widely available, and convenient
- Bolt – Affordable ride-hailing alternative
- Addison Lee – Premium taxi and chauffeur service
- Green Tomato Cars – Eco-conscious travel choice
- My London Transfer – Fixed-rate, pre-booked airport and city transfers with professional drivers
Why choose My London Transfer?
Unlike typical ride-hailing apps, this service provides reliable, door-to-door transport with fixed rates and no surge pricing making it an ideal choice for London City Airport taxi services, business travel, long-distance journeys, and special occasions.
Windsor and Slough Taxi Options
Traveling to or from Windsor or Slough? Here are a few known local options:
- Royal Windsor Cars
- Windsor Cars
- Five Star Cars
- Windsor Radio Cars
- My London Transfer – Covering all routes from London to Windsor, Slough, and nearby towns with reliable, on-time service
Why Go With a Taxi?
- Direct pickup and drop-off at your location
- No need to change trains or deal with transfers
- Ideal for tourists, families, or business travelers with luggage
- Flexible schedules and peace of mind
Whether it’s Heathrow to Windsor or Central London to Gatwick, My London Transfer ensures a seamless and stress-free ride every time.
City Context: Nearby Hubs and Landmarks
Slough is only 5 miles away from Windsor and serves as a major transport interchange. If you’re coming from the west or southwest of England, you might find better train or bus connectivity to Slough Station, then transfer by taxi or local train.
London Heathrow Airport, the UK’s busiest international airport, is just 20 minutes away from Windsor by car. It’s common for tourists to visit Windsor Castle right after landing or before departing the UK thanks to its close proximity.
Travel Tips for Visiting Windsor Castle
- Visit early: Windsor Castle opens at 10 AM. Get there early to avoid the long queues, especially during summer.
- Book in advance: Tickets can sell out quickly during holidays and royal events.
- Combine experiences: Add a boat ride on the River Thames or explore Eton College nearby.
- Check for closures: Parts of the castle may be closed for private Royal Family events — always check the Royal Collection Trust website before your visit.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re traveling by train, car, or taxi, getting to Windsor Castle from London is straightforward and every option has its pros. If you want speed and simplicity, the train is a solid choice. For more comfort, a taxi offers a relaxed door-to-door ride. And if you’re planning a scenic or extended trip, consider driving or hopping on a coach.
No matter how you choose to get there, Windsor Castle offers a journey through centuries of royal history and the journey itself can be part of the adventure.
Meta Title:
How to Get to Windsor Castle from London | Complete Travel Guide 2025
Meta Description:
Planning a visit to Windsor Castle? Discover the best ways to travel from London by train, taxi, car, or coach. Find tips, timings, prices & FAQs in this complete guide.
FAQs
Can I take a taxi from Heathrow to Windsor Castle?
Yes, absolutely. It’s one of the quickest routes to Windsor. A taxi from Heathrow typically takes 15–20 minutes and costs around £25–£35, depending on the terminal and time of day.
Is the train faster than driving?
Yes, especially during peak traffic hours. The train from London Paddington to Windsor via Slough often takes under 40 minutes, while driving can take up to an hour or more.
Do taxis wait at Windsor station?
Yes. Both Windsor & Eton Riverside and Windsor & Eton Central stations have taxi stands nearby. You can also book in advance via local providers like Windsor Cars.
