Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Self-Guided Tour with Coach

Planning a trip to London and want a flexible way to see some of its most iconic royal residences? This self-guided tour offers a balanced mix of independence and convenience, taking you inside Buckingham Palace’s rarely-open State Rooms and the historic Windsor Castle, all with round-trip transportation included. We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and what to expect so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your royal itinerary.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is the self-guided format. It allows you to explore at your own pace, taking in the grandeur of the palaces without the pressure of a guided group. Plus, the fact that transportation is handled for you makes it more practical—especially if you’re unfamiliar with navigating London or Windsor on your own.

However, a potential consideration is the crowds, which many travelers noted. Queueing and waiting are part of the experience at popular sites like Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, especially in peak seasons. Also, since the tour is entirely self-guided, there’s no official guide with live commentary, which might be a drawback for those seeking a deeper historical narrative.

This tour suits independent travelers, first-timers, or anyone keen on seeing these royal landmarks without the heavy price tag of guided tours. If you prefer a flexible schedule and don’t mind a bit of crowd, it’s a good value choice. Now, let’s explore what’s really involved and whether this tour matches your travel style.

Key Points

• Flexible exploration: Self-guided tours give you control over timing and pacing.
• Exclusive access: See the interior of Buckingham Palace, open only for eight weeks a year.
• Historic sites: Visit Windsor Castle, home to the King, and St. George’s Chapel, where royal ancestors are laid to rest.
• Round-trip transportation: Travel comfortably on a modern, air-conditioned coach from central London.
• Limited guide interaction: No live guide; multimedia guides available.
• Crowd considerations: Expect large crowds, especially at peak times, which can lead to long waits.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point in London and the Visit to Buckingham Palace

Your day begins in Victoria, where you’ll meet your tour representative. From there, it’s just a ten-minute walk to Buckingham Palace. While it’s a short stroll, having someone to guide you in the beginning helps set the tone. Your entry to the Palace’s State Rooms is timed, meaning you won’t have to wait in long lines—an advantage many travelers appreciate, especially during busy seasons.

Once inside, you’ll see the magnificent Ballroom and Throne Room, which are used on official occasions. The rooms are decked out with priceless artworks, and their decor offers a glimpse into British regal splendor. The South Garden provides a stunning backdrop for photos, with views that highlight the royal residence’s elegant exterior and manicured grounds.

A reviewer noted that the viewing experience is breathtaking and that the interior is “not to be missed,” especially considering the limited days it’s open each year. Remember, photography inside the palace isn’t permitted, so be prepared to store your camera or phone during the tour.

Transition to Windsor Castle

After about 1 hour 30 minutes at Buckingham Palace, you’re free to make your way back to the designated meeting point. The tour then continues with a coach transfer to Windsor Castle. The drive is smooth, comfortable, and air-conditioned, which makes the journey pleasant, especially on warmer days.

Windsor Castle Exploration

Arriving at Windsor, you’ll have around 2 hours to explore. The castle is perched on a lush, wooded hill, overlooking the River Thames, and you’ll get to see the elegant State Apartments—home to priceless artworks by artists like Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci. Many visitors find this part of the experience particularly special because it’s a rare opportunity to see the insides of a working royal residence.

Audio guides, available in multiple languages, help you navigate the castle at your own pace. You’ll also visit St. George’s Chapel, a significant site as the burial place of some past monarchs and the venue for royal weddings. Keep in mind that St. George’s Chapel is closed on Sundays, as services are held throughout the day—something to consider when planning your visit.

What Reviewers Say About Windsor Castle

Travelers appreciated the vast, sweeping gardens and the impressive architecture. One reviewer mentioned the “huge crowds” at each site, suggesting that group entry helped save time. Another pointed out that the castle’s history visible in every turret and corridor makes it well worth the visit despite queues.

Additional Tips for Visitors

• Mobility: Pushchairs aren’t permitted inside Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms but can be checked in. Baby-carriers are available if needed.
• Timing: Since the tour is strictly scheduled, arriving on time is crucial to avoid missing your entry window.
• Crowd management: If you’re sensitive to crowds, consider visiting during shoulder seasons or early in the day.
• Attire: Dress comfortably with layers, as you’ll be walking and exploring for several hours.
• No guide, but multimedia guides enhance the experience, providing context and historical insights.

Transportation and Practical Aspects

The round-trip coach is a key feature, offering convenience and comfort. The modern vehicle is kept very clean, and even during peak periods, the transportation runs smoothly. The duration of the entire day is around 10.5 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

The tour starts at 9:45 am, and you’ll return to the meeting point after your visits. This schedule allows ample time at each site, but note that the order may change, depending on operational considerations.

Pricing at $137.56 per person offers good value, considering the cost of individual tickets for Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. The inclusion of multimedia guides and transportation enhances the overall experience, especially for those who prefer exploring independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration and want the flexibility to spend more time at either site if desired. It’s ideal if you prefer to avoid guided tours’ rigid schedules but still want the convenience of transportation included.

First-time visitors to London who want a comprehensive view of royal landmarks will find this a practical option. However, if you’re after a more in-depth, guided history lesson, this might feel a bit lacking.

The tour’s cost-effectiveness makes it a good pick for budget-conscious travelers, especially since it combines two major sites and transport without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

This Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle self-guided tour strikes a careful balance between independence and convenience. You’ll get inside access to some of the UK’s most iconic royal residences without the added expense of a guided tour, all while traveling comfortably in a modern coach.

If you’re looking for a day that combines flexibility, impressive sights, and straightforward organization, this experience offers considerable value. Expect crowds and some long waits, but for many, the stunning interiors and scenic Windsor views outweigh these minor drawbacks.

It’s a solid choice for independent travelers, history buffs, or first-timers craving a taste of royal London with minimal fuss. Just remember to plan your timing around site closures and peak hours, and you’ll enjoy a memorable day exploring Britain’s regal treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers from central London to Windsor are included on a comfortable, air-conditioned coach.

Can I explore Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace at my own pace?
Absolutely. The tour is self-guided, so you control how long you spend at each site.

Are audio guides available at Windsor Castle?
Yes, audio guides are available in multiple languages to help you navigate Windsor Castle.

What should I know about the timing of the tour?
The tour starts at 9:45 am, and you’ll meet the guide outside King’s Gallery. You’ll visit Buckingham Palace first, then travel to Windsor.

Is there a guide with live commentary?
No, the tour does not include a live guide, but multimedia guides are provided at Windsor Castle.

Are there any restrictions for accessibility?
Yes, Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms require prior arrangement for mobility access, and pushchairs are not permitted inside the palace.

Does the tour operate on Sundays?
St. George’s Chapel is closed for visitors on Sundays, though services are held there.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
Approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, including travel and exploration time.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. After that, full payment is non-refundable.

Is photography allowed inside Buckingham Palace?
No, photography is prohibited inside the State Rooms. You can take photos in the gardens.

This tour provides a practical, well-organized way to see some of Britain’s most iconic royal sites with the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a royal enthusiast, it offers a taste of regal splendor without the fuss of guided tours.