Windsor

Just west of London and still on the River Thames, Windsor’s history and connection to the British Royal Family makes it a must-see day trip while in London. It is by far one of the easiest trips to make on our list for any KCL student. Windsor Castle, the pinnacle of any trip to Windsor, is a favorite residence of Queen Elizabeth II. The castle, however, was originally built by William the Conqueror in the years following 1066 C.E. after his capture of London.

How to get to Windsor:

By Train: The journey time takes roughly 30 minutes to an hour.

• London Paddington to Eton Central

  • There are roughly 1 to 3 trains every hour from London. Although this is not a direct route, it is usually the quickest. The train from London Paddington to Slough can take as little as 15 minutes. Once you change at Slough, the train will take you directly to Windsor within 6 minutes. This route only takes around 30 minutes to 45 depending on the first train to Slough.

• London Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Riverside

  • The train from London Waterloo to Windsor and Eton Riverside runs directly and doesn’t require any changes, but it does take around 55 minutes so it takes slightly longer than traveling from Paddington.

By Bus: a bus trip can usually take up from 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, however, the price is slightly cheaper at £6.50

• The Green Line 702 bus service to Windsor takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes and prices start at £10 for an adult return ticket. Buses run hourly from London Victoria. You can get off in Central Windsor, right by Windsor Castle. Buses run throughout the day, 7 days a week. Download the Green Line 702 app to track your bus and please visit www.greenline702.co.uk for times and fares. 

Activities in Windsor:

• Windsor Castle

  • By far the biggest attraction in Windsor is of course Windsor Castle. It is a by far a must see since it is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the entire world! Built in 1070 AD by William the Conquerer, it has gone through many changes including its most recent renovation after a fire in 1992. Inside, you can tour the State Apartments containing the Queen’s Gallery.

    • Windsor Castle Ticket Prices (BOOK Online)
      Adult £22.50 per ticket
      Adult (during closure of State Apartments) £12.40 per ticket
      Senior/Student £20.30 per ticket

• St. George’s Chapel

  • Many people will know St. George’s Chapel because it is where Harry and Meghan said their vows in May 2018. This makes it a must see for any royal fanatic or someone who loves history.

  •  See Evensong at St. George’s Chapel: If you can, plan your trip so that you can visit during Evensong at St. George’s Chapel. Evensong is free and lasts about 45-min

    • the choral Evensong is a tradition that dates back nearly 500 years and is suppose to give the listeners a time for restful contemplation.

    • All you have to do is line up around 3o minutes before it starts and you will be able to sit where many of the most distinguished guests at Harry and Meghan’s wedding sat!