Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour

Planning a day that combines royal grandeur with historical intrigue? This 9-hour guided tour from London offers a genuine glimpse into Britain’s regal past and present, visiting two of the most iconic royal residences: Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. For those eager to experience the splendor of the monarchy without the hassle of planning, this tour promises a well-organized and memorable outing.

One of the standout features is the special timed entry to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms — a rare opportunity since they’re only open to the public for about 8 weeks a year. The visit is complemented by Windsor Castle, the Queen’s favorite weekend retreat, with its impressive architecture, priceless artworks, and a chance to see Queen Mary’s Dolls House.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour is unescorted after the initial entry, meaning you’ll be exploring these grand sites independently. This setup works best for travelers who enjoy a bit of freedom but might not suit those seeking a guided, narrated experience throughout.

If you appreciate historic sites, stunning architecture, and a taste of royal life, this tour is perfect for history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting an efficient overview of England’s crown jewels — literally and figuratively.

Key Points

• Two iconic residences: Visit both Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle in one day.
• Exclusive access: Enjoy a special timed entry into Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms.
• Rich experiences: See priceless artworks, the Queen’s Dolls House, and the historic Chapel.
• Comfortable transport: Travel by air-conditioned coach for ease and convenience.
• Flexible exploration: After entry, the sites are mostly self-guided, allowing personal pace.
• Value for money: For $135, the tour provides transport, entry tickets, and multimedia guides, making it a cost-effective way to see royal highlights.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Meeting Point & Morning Start

The day begins outside the King’s Gallery in Victoria, where a Golden Tours representative will meet you around 9:45 am. From there, a short 5-minute walk takes you to Buckingham Palace’s front entrance. This initial check-in is a smooth process, and the small group size (or individual bookings) helps keep things organized.

Buckingham Palace: A Glimpse into Royal Life

Once inside, you will encounter the special timed entry that ensures a more exclusive experience. The State Rooms, open only during certain times of the year, are truly the highlight. We loved the way the multimedia guide added context, highlighting the history behind each room as you wandered through the magnificent Ballroom and Throne Room.

Reviewers have noted that the rooms are breathtaking and that the audio guides are available in multiple languages, making it accessible for international visitors. One reviewer mentioned, “The rooms are even more stunning than I expected, with beautiful artwork and luxurious decor.”

A note for visitors: photography inside Buckingham Palace is not permitted, so you’ll want to soak in the opulence and take mental snapshots instead. The South Garden walk offers a peaceful end to the visit, where you can enjoy the outdoor scenery and imagine the scenes of royal entertaining.

Transition to Windsor Castle

Around 12:45 pm, you’ll make your way to Bulleid Way in Victoria to meet the coach departing at 1 pm. The drive to Windsor Castle takes about an hour, including scenic views along the way. The coach ride is comfortable, and some reviews mentioned that the timing was well-managed, giving ample opportunity for photos or a quick rest.

Windsor Castle: A Fortress of Royalty

Upon arrival, you’ll find audio guides available in various languages, enhancing your exploration of this historic stronghold. Windsor Castle, dating back to Norman times, is a stunning example of medieval architecture and royal living.

The State Apartments are described as lavish, containing artworks by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci. Reviewers appreciated the chance to see priceless artworks up close, along with the turreted Round Tower and landscaped gardens.

A standout feature is Queen Mary’s Dolls House, a miniature marvel with working lifts, running water, and electricity—something that surprises many visitors. One reviewer remarked, “The Dolls House is incredible, and it really shows how detailed and playful the royal family can be.”

You’ll also visit St. Georges Chapel, the final resting place of monarchs like Henry VIII, which adds a somber, reflective note to the visit. Note that the Chapel is closed on Sundays when services are held, so plan your visit accordingly.

Returning and Tour The Sum Up

The tour is scheduled to end around 5:30 pm in Kensington, giving you a full, immersive day without feeling rushed. The unescorted aspect allows you to explore some sites at your own pace, although it requires a bit of independence and navigation skills.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Special Entry to Buckingham Palace

This isn’t just any palace visit—being granted special timed access means you get to avoid the usual crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. Many visitors mentioned that seeing the magnificent rooms and royal artifacts felt very exclusive, especially with multimedia guides providing rich background stories.

Windsor Castle’s Authentic Charm

Windsor is more than just a castle; it’s a living piece of history. Its landscaped gardens and historic chapel make it a must-see for history lovers. Reviewers appreciate the length of the visit, which allows ample time to explore without feeling hurried.

The Value Proposition

For $135, the tour covers transport, entry tickets, and multimedia guides, making it a practical choice for travelers who want to see two major sites without the hassle of planning separate visits or tickets. The convenience of transportation and the ability to skip long queues at the entrance are significant advantages.

The Flexibility & Independence

Many reviewers highlighted that once inside the sites, the self-guided exploration is a plus, giving you the chance to linger in your favorite rooms or move quickly through areas less interesting to you. The multimedia guides are especially praised for their clarity and depth.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Start early: The tour begins around 9:45 am, so arrive promptly to maximize your time.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Both sites involve walking on uneven surfaces and plenty of standing.
• Photography restrictions: Remember, no photos are allowed inside Buckingham Palace, so focus on enjoying the surroundings.
• Mobility needs: If you require accessibility accommodations, it’s best to contact Buckingham Palace directly 14 days in advance.
• Weather: Outdoor parts at Buckingham Palace and Windsor can be enjoyed more on a sunny day, so dress accordingly.
• Timing: Keep an eye on the schedule, especially the departure from Victoria to ensure you don’t miss your coach.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a comprehensive royal experience in one day without the stress of booking multiple tickets or navigating public transport. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors to London, or anyone eager to see two of Britain’s most iconic royal residences efficiently.

If you prefer guided narrations throughout, the self-guided nature might be a drawback; however, the multimedia guides more than make up for it. It’s also well-suited for those who value comfort and convenience, thanks to air-conditioned coaches and well-organized timings.

The Sum Up

This Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to experience two of Britain’s most famous royal landmarks. The special access to Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms is a real highlight, providing a rare glimpse into the monarchy’s luxurious side. Windsor Castle’s historic charm and stunning views add depth to the day, making it especially appealing for those interested in history, architecture, and royal traditions.

While the unescorted format means you need to explore independently, the multimedia guides and structured schedule keep the experience smooth and engaging. The convenience of transport, combined with the access to insider sights, makes this tour a sensible choice for those looking for a memorable, hassle-free day out.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic look into royal life combined with comfortable logistics, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing with minimal planning and enjoy the stunning views and historic grandeur these sites have to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to meet the representative outside the King’s Gallery in Victoria.

What time does the tour start?
Meetings begin around 9:45 am, with the tour departing shortly after. Be punctual to ensure you don’t miss the schedule.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, tickets for Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle are included in the ticket price, but you should reserve your spot ahead of time to secure availability.

Can I take photos inside Buckingham Palace?
No, photography is not permitted inside Buckingham Palace’s State Rooms to preserve the integrity of the furnishings and artworks.

How long is the time spent at each location?
The schedule allows for roughly 3 hours at Buckingham Palace (including entry and exploration) and about 3 hours at Windsor Castle, with some free time for independent exploration.

Is there an opportunity to see Queen Mary’s Dolls House?
Yes, Queen Mary’s Dolls House is included in the Windsor Castle visit, and many visitors find it a delightful miniature world with working features.

What language are the guides available in?
Multimedia guides are available in several languages, making it accessible for international guests.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Mobility accommodations can be arranged if booked 14 days in advance directly with Buckingham Palace.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking on uneven surfaces and outdoor areas.

Can I end the tour anywhere else in London?
The scheduled end point is in Kensington around 5:30 pm; transport to other areas is not provided, so plan accordingly.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced blend of convenience, exclusivity, and historical richness. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the regal sights with a flexible, self-guided approach and appreciate the stunning interiors and landscapes of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.