Windsor Castle and Tower of London Tour with Entry Tickets

Windsor Castle and Tower of London Tour with Entry Tickets: An Honest Review

If you’re planning a day trip from London to explore the UK’s royal landmarks, this tour offers a way to see two of the most iconic sites—the Windsor Castle and the Tower of London—without the hassle of organizing tickets yourself. From the outside, it sounds like a perfect way to tick off historic sites in one go, but as with many group tours, the experience can vary quite a bit depending on execution.

What we especially like about this tour is the inclusion of entry tickets to both attractions, which in many cases can save you hours of waiting in line. The professional guide, provided by Anderson Tours, is also a highlight—knowledgeable commentary can turn these historic sites into stories you’ll remember.

However, a key consideration is that the tour has received mixed reviews, with some travelers reporting issues like last-minute communication about ticket availability and limited access to certain parts of the attractions. So, if you’re a history buff or a royal enthusiast, this might be a good fit, but do keep in mind the potential for logistical hiccups.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers who want a structured, guided visit with logistical support, especially those new to London or pressed for time. If you’re looking to see the highlights of Windsor Castle and the Tower of London without the stress of planning, it can be a practical choice. But if you’re after a more flexible or in-depth exploration, you might prefer visiting independently or choosing a private guide.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from central London simplifies logistics.
• Skip-the-line tickets are included, though some reviews mention issues with ticket availability.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of the sites’ histories—though experiences may vary.
• Limited access to certain areas like St. George’s Chapel or the State Apartments on specific days can affect the visit.
• Time flexibility is limited; the tour lasts between 5-8 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Authentic sites like Windsor Castle and the Tower of London are central to British royal history, making this a worthwhile experience for first-timers.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at Earls Court, a well-connected central London location. Meeting at London Bus Stop C opposite Warwick Road Underground Station makes it accessible, especially if you’re staying nearby. The coach is air-conditioned, which is a relief during warmer days, and provides a comfortable ride to Windsor and the Tower. Expect a fairly punctual start—most guides are professional and aim to keep things on schedule.

Windsor Castle: The Oldest and Largest Occupied Castle
Once you arrive at Windsor, the highlight is immediately clear: Windsor Castle is imposing, and its age (over 1,000 years) lends a sense of grandeur. You’re taken inside the State Apartments, which are beautifully decorated and give visitors a glimpse into royal living. The St. George’s Chapel is usually included in the visit, a significant site for royal weddings and burials, including Queen Elizabeth II’s. However, note that the chapel is closed on Sundays, which might affect your plans if you visit then.

What to Expect Inside
The tour typically offers a guided walkthrough, with the guide explaining the significance of rooms, artworks, and royal artifacts. The Crown Jewels are also part of the main attraction, with a designated viewing area. Be prepared for queues—waiting times can vary, but the tour often includes a skip-the-line pass, which is a real time-saver.

Potential Drawbacks
Some reviewers, like Stacey, pointed out a major drawback: the tour company failed to secure tickets for the Tower of London for their booked date, leading to frustration and a delayed refund. This highlights the importance of buying tickets independently if possible or confirming in advance. Plus, access to certain areas like the State Apartments might be limited on some days, and the crowd levels can be unpredictable.

The Tower of London: The Fortress with Dark Tales
Next stop is the Tower of London, a site synonymous with medieval history, executions, and the Crown Jewels. Here you’ll meet the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters)—their commentary is often a highlight, adding color and humor to the history. You’ll see the Crown Jewels, a dazzling collection of regalia that symbolizes the monarchy’s authority.

Walking the Tower Green
The tour includes a walk along the Legendary Tower Green, where some of England’s most famous prisoners and executions took place. The guide might share stories of intrigue, treachery, and royal drama—though, again, access to certain parts can be affected by the day’s schedule.

Free Time and Personal Exploration
After the guided part, you’re given some free time to explore independently. This is a good chance to revisit favorite exhibits, take photos, or just soak in the atmosphere of this historic fortress. Keep in mind that the queue for the Crown Jewels can be long, so plan accordingly if you want a closer look.

Practical Details and Value

Duration and Pace
The tour lasts between 5 to 8 hours, depending on traffic, crowd levels, and how long you wish to spend inside each site. It’s a moderate walking tour—comfortable shoes are a must, as both sites involve a fair amount of walking and stairs.

Cost and What’s Included
For the price, you get entry to both Windsor Castle and the Tower of London, plus transportation and a professional guide. This can be a good deal considering the cost of individual tickets and transportation fees if you were to visit independently. However, the review from Stacey warns that last-minute issues with ticket procurement can undermine the value—so, it’s wise to buy your tickets ahead of time if possible.

What’s Not Included
Food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks or plan to purchase at the sites. Remember, food and drinks aren’t allowed inside the attractions, so be sure to eat beforehand or during your free time.

Accessibility and Other Considerations
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, which is typical for sites with uneven surfaces and stairs. Also, security checks are standard, and photography restrictions apply in some areas.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This guided tour offers an efficient way to see two of Britain’s most famous royal sites in one day, complete with skip-the-line tickets and expert commentary. The experience is best suited for travelers who value convenience and guided insights but are prepared for some variability in access and timing.

While the included sites are undeniably impressive—the majestic Windsor Castle and the historic Tower of London—be aware that some travelers have faced issues with ticket procurement and limited access on certain days. Knowledgeable guides can make the difference, but their quality may vary depending on the day.

You’ll love the views, the stories, and the sense of stepping into history, but keep expectations realistic, especially regarding potential queues or site restrictions. If you’re comfortable with a scheduled, group-based experience and don’t mind some unpredictability, this tour can be a good value and an enjoyable way to tick off these iconic landmarks.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation from central London?
Yes, the tour departs from Earls Court, opposite Warwick Road Underground Station, with transport by air-conditioned coach to Windsor and the Tower.

Are tickets to Windsor Castle and the Tower of London included?
They are included in the price, but some reviews warn that the tour operator may not always secure tickets in advance, so it’s wise to verify or consider buying tickets separately.

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 5 to 8 hours, depending on traffic, crowd levels, and how much time you spend inside each site.

Can I visit the sites independently after the guided tour?
Yes, the tour provides free time to explore on your own after the guided portion.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s primarily designed for able-bodied adults, and isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to site layouts and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella or rain gear, a camera, and water. Be aware that photography isn’t allowed everywhere, and backpacks are prohibited inside the attractions.

To sum it up, this day trip offers a practical way to see two of Britain’s most storied royal sites with the convenience of guided commentary and included tickets. While some logistical issues have been reported, particularly regarding ticket availability, the experience can be rewarding for those who appreciate historic grandeur and structured tours. Just plan ahead, keep a flexible mindset, and enjoy stepping into the pages of royal history.