Windsor Castle & St. Georges Chapel
Recommendation added: 26/02/2006 14:41
By: desirable (YSUK rating +16)desirable has been thanked 2 times for this contribution
"You should allow at least 2 hours for your visit around the Castle (and its grounds in the summer), The prices are quiet expensive so It's best as a one off, but its gorgeous to view, and ok so its not exciting for children, but if you have a child who wants to be a solider then they would definitely enjoy this experience. The castle is open all year round, although opening arrangements may be subject to change at short notice. Particular care should be taken to check opening arrangements in June, as there are regular annual official engagements that take place. Also changing of the guards happens at 10-11am everyday so they close of the roads. Parking is quite expensive in Windsor town center, but there is a park and ride nearby.
Windsor Castle is one of three official residences of The Queen and has been home to the Sovereign for over 900 years. The Castle is the largest inhabited castle in the world and the oldest in continuous occupation. The imposing towers and battlements of the Castle loom large from every approach to the town, creating one of the world's most spectacular skylines. No other royal residence has played such an important role in the nation's history.
Until 2 April 2006, the semi-state rooms will be open to the public. George IV created these in the 1820s as part of a new series of Royal Apartments for his personal occupation. They continue in use by The Queen for official entertaining. Damaged in the 1992 fire, they have been restored to their original appearance and contain furniture and works of art chosen by George IV. The semi-state rooms include The Green Drawing Room, The Crimson Drawing Room, The State Dining Room and The Octagon Dining Room.
When the Queen is in residence the Royal Standard flies from the Round Tower. At all other times you will see the Union Flag.
You also get access to St George's Chapel by gaining access to the Castle, and I'm sure you've seen St. George's Chapel on the TV a few times. You should allow 30 minutes -1 hour just to look round the chapel, especially if you are attending one of its services. It is one of the most beautiful ecclesiastical buildings in England. The building was started in 1475 by Edward IV and took fifty years to construct. It is the Chapel of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, Britain's highest order of chivalry founded by Edward III in 1348. Members are selected by The Sovereign and include foreign monarchs and previous Prime Ministers. Ten monarchs are buried in the Chapel, including Edward IV, Henry VIII with his favourite wife Jane Seymour, Charles I, George V and Queen Mary and George VI. Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother is also buried here, along with her younger daughter Princess Margaret. Beyond St George's Chapel is the entrance to the Albert Memorial Chapel, converted by Queen Victoria as a memorial to her husband Prince Albert who died in 1861. The Chapel is closed to visitors on Sundays, although worshippers are welcome to attend the services at 8.30am (Holy Communion), 10.45am (Mattins and Sermon), 11.45am (Sung Eucharist) and 5.15pm (Evensong).
Prices:
Adult £13.50, Child £7.50, Concession (Senior/Student) £12, Family tickets* £34.50.
You get in free if you live in the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead (you will need an advantage card)
During closure of the State Apartments Adult £7, Child £4, Concession (Senior/Student) £6, Family tickets* £18.
Admission charge includes a FREE audio guide.
*A family ticket permits admission of two adults and up to 3 children."
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