Windsor Castle & Hampton Court Tour

Private Day Tour to Windsor Castle & Hampton Court Palace: A Journey Through Royal Majesty

Step into the world of British royalty with a private day tour to Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace. This exclusive experience takes you to two iconic royal residences, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. Begin with the grandeur of Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, and continue to the splendid Hampton Court Palace, the beloved Tudor home of Henry VIII. With luxury transport and an expert guide, immerse yourself in the captivating stories, art, and architecture of England’s royal heritage.

Departure from London
Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your London hotel or a central location. Relax in a luxury vehicle as your guide provides background on the day’s destinations, sharing anecdotes about the British monarchy and setting the stage for a day filled with royal intrigue and elegance.

Windsor Castle: The Queen’s Weekend Residence
Arrive at Windsor Castle, the official weekend residence of the British monarch. With origins dating back nearly 1,000 years, Windsor is an architectural marvel and an enduring symbol of the British Crown. Start your tour with a visit to the castle grounds and the State Apartments, richly adorned with royal treasures, tapestries, and art by renowned artists like Rembrandt and Rubens. Your guide will share stories about the monarchs who called Windsor home, from William the Conqueror to Queen Elizabeth II.

State Apartments and St George’s Chapel
Explore the lavishly decorated State Apartments, filled with opulent furnishings and priceless artwork. Walk through the Grand Reception Room, St. George’s Hall, and the Semi-State Rooms, learning about their historical and ceremonial significance. Then, head to St. George’s Chapel, a magnificent Gothic church and the final resting place of numerous royals, including Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth II. Your guide will highlight the chapel’s architectural beauty and share insights into the royal weddings and events that have taken place here.

The Changing of the Guard
If your visit aligns with the schedule, witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a vibrant and quintessentially British tradition. Watch as the guards, dressed in their iconic red uniforms and bearskin hats, march in formation to the sound of military music—a spectacle that adds to the grandeur of Windsor.

Hampton Court Palace: Tudor and Baroque Grandeur
After a morning at Windsor Castle, journey to Hampton Court Palace, the stunning riverside residence that was once the favored home of King Henry VIII. With its red-brick Tudor façade and grand Baroque additions, Hampton Court offers a unique blend of architectural styles. Start your exploration in the Tudor State Apartments, where you’ll see the Great Hall, adorned with medieval tapestries, and the Haunted Gallery, filled with legends of ghostly encounters.

Henry VIII’s Apartments and the Great Kitchens
Walk through the historic rooms where Henry VIII held court, entertained dignitaries, and lived out his tumultuous personal life. Your guide will share fascinating details about Henry’s six marriages and his quest for a male heir. Then, head to the vast Tudor kitchens, where lavish feasts were prepared for hundreds of courtiers. See the fireplaces, roasting spits, and storerooms that brought the palace’s grand banquets to life.

Baroque Apartments of William III and Mary II
Explore the palace’s Baroque wing, commissioned by William III and Mary II to rival the grandeur of Versailles. Marvel at the King’s Apartments, with their opulent decor, richly painted ceilings, and views of the formal gardens. Learn about the contrasting reigns of the Tudor and Stuart monarchs, as well as the architectural innovations that shaped Hampton Court’s Baroque transformation.

Gardens and the Famous Maze
Step outside to enjoy Hampton Court’s breathtaking gardens, which span over 60 acres. Stroll through the neatly manicured Privy Garden, restored to its original Baroque glory, or try to navigate the famous hedge maze, which has puzzled visitors for centuries. Your guide will highlight key features of the gardens, including the Fountain Court, the Great Vine, and the ornamental flowerbeds.

Lunch in the Palace Grounds
Take a break for lunch within the palace grounds, where you can enjoy classic British dishes in the Tiltyard Café or the Privy Kitchen Café. With options for seasonal fare and traditional meals, it’s a perfect spot to relax and refuel before your afternoon of exploration.

Return to London
After a day immersed in royal history, return to London in comfort. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or preferred location, offering recommendations for further exploring, dining, or evening entertainment.

This private tour of Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace offers an ideal mix of regal history, stunning architecture, and engaging storytelling—perfect for anyone eager to experience England’s rich royal heritage. With a knowledgeable guide, luxurious travel, and unmatched access to these iconic sites, enjoy a day of royal splendor and historic insight.

Tour Details

Meeting location

Private guide

Hours

9 hours

Service

Your hotel or other central London location

Transport

1-3 guests Luxury sedan 4-6 guests minivan

Entrance fees

Included

Tour Reservation

Complete our enquiry form and we will forward you a confirmed price and full itinerary.

Our tour guide was amazing! This is the best way to see London.

Alice M

We had David as our guide and if he didnt know something it was not worth knowing

John D

★★★★★

★★★★★