The historic towns of Windsor and Eton pack a powerful one-two punch for travelers seeking authentic British experiences. The most rewarding way to explore these royal neighbors is through guided tours, each offering distinct advantages. Walking tours excel at revealing hidden corners around Windsor Castle and Eton College, while bike tours let you cover more ground along the scenic Thames Valley paths. For efficiency, the hop-on hop-off buses connect all major sights with minimum fuss. I’m especially fond of the walking tours – they’re intimate, informative, and get you close to the medieval architecture that makes these towns special. Private guides are worth the splurge if you want to dig deeper into the royal connections and local lore. Let’s look at our favorite tours that showcase the best of Windsor and Eton.
Good To Know
- For a scenic bike tour of the English countryside, the Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour offers an easy 9-mile journey with personalized experiences.
- The Windsor Castle & St George’s Chapel: Half-Day Walking Tour provides a private exploration of the 1,000-year history of Windsor Castle with a knowledgeable guide.
- The Windsor Castle Private Walking Tour offers a detailed 3-hour tour led by an accredited expert, including access to the State Apartments and St. George’s Chapel.
- The Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour allows flexible sightseeing of Windsor’s historical and modern aspects with audio guides available in multiple languages.
- Comprehensive tours like the Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace Private Tour and the Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour From London provide all-inclusive experiences with transportation and skip-the-line access.
Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour
Although the Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour takes cyclists on a scenic journey through the English countryside, it’s not just about the beautiful landscapes. With its 55 reviews and 98% recommendation from travelers, this small-group tour offers a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Covering around 9 miles of easy terrain, the tour showcases key landmarks like Windsor Castle, Eton College, and Dorney Court. Riders can also enjoy scenic views of the Thames Valley and gain insights into the area’s rich history. The tour’s badge of excellence further affirms its quality.
Priced from $37.37 per person, the tour includes a professional guide, bicycle, and helmet. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, it’s a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Windsor and Eton.
Whether you’re confident on a bike or simply want to soak in the countryside, this tour caters to a range of ages and abilities, making it a must-do activity for visitors to the region.
Read our full review: Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour
The Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour offers visitors a flexible and convenient way to explore the historic town of Windsor and its surrounding areas. The 24-hour ticket allows passengers to hop on and off at their leisure, taking in the sights at their own pace. The tour covers both historical and modern aspects of Windsor, providing an overview of the town’s rich heritage.
The buses are modern, comfortable, and undergo daily deep cleaning for passenger safety. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, German, and Chinese. While refreshments aren’t provided, they can be purchased on board.
Travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and moderate physical fitness is required. Infants must sit on laps, and no food is allowed on the buses.
Read our full review: Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Windsor Castle & St Georges Chapel: Half-Day Walking Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive yet personalized exploration of Windsor Castle and St. George’s Chapel, the “Windsor Castle & St Georges Chapel: Half-Day Walking Tour” offers an exceptional experience.
This private walking tour allows travelers to discover the 1,000-year history of the iconic royal residence at their own pace, with a knowledgeable English-speaking guide leading the way. Highlights include the State Apartments and the stunning St. George’s Chapel, where guests can enjoy the rich heritage of the site.
With ample time for photos, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for visitors of various mobility levels. Boasting a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides excellent value, with admission tickets included and a lowest price guarantee.
Whether you’re interested in the architectural grandeur or the captivating stories, this private experience promises a deeper, more personalized exploration of Windsor Castle and St. George’s Chapel.
Read our full review: Windsor Castle & St Georges Chapel: Half-Day Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace Private Tour – Windsor & Eton
Offering a comprehensive experience, the “Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace Private Tour – Windsor & Eton” takes travelers on a captivating journey through two of England’s most iconic royal residences.
Priced at $1,058.94 per group of up to 7 people, the private tour includes transportation, admission costs, and lunch. Guests can look forward to a visit to Windsor Castle, as well as a photo stop at Eton College.
While the tour is generally accessible, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness.
With an overall rating of 3.0 based on one review, the tour has received praise for the guide’s adaptability in the face of a closure at Hampton Court Palace. However, the reviewer suggests confirming site openings prior to booking.
The host acknowledges this challenge, noting that ticket prices aren’t included and should be booked separately. Despite this, the tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for those seeking to explore the rich history and grandeur of these iconic royal sites.
Read our full review: Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace Private Tour – Windsor & Eton Review
Book now: Check availability
Windsor Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK
Although the Windsor Tour App, Hidden Gems Game, and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) provide visitors with a flexible and independent way to explore Windsor, the overall customer experience has received a mixed reception.
The app offers self-guided access to a one-day pass, allowing groups and families to share a single ticket and explore at their own pace. However, according to customer feedback, the navigation through the app was disappointing, with one reviewer, Amanda_J, ultimately turning it off.
The host acknowledged the feedback, explaining the app’s design encourages self-discovery rather than providing formal guidance. They suggested a private guide or audio guide may have been a better fit.
Despite the host’s offer of a full refund for unsatisfied customers, the overall rating for this tour is a low 1.0 based on a single review. Travelers should consider their preferences for guidance and navigation when deciding whether the Windsor Tour App is the right choice for their Windsor exploration.
Read our full review: Windsor Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK Review
Book now: Check availability
Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour From London With Entry Tickets
This comprehensive tour combines visits to the iconic Stonehenge and the historic Windsor Castle, providing travelers with a unique opportunity to explore two of England’s most renowned landmarks.
Guests can skip the lines at Windsor Castle, allowing ample time to discover its highlights, including St George’s Chapel and Queen Mary’s Dolls House. The complimentary audio guide at Stonehenge enhances the experience, as travelers enjoy the ancient site’s rich history.
The tour is designed for both locals and visitors, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle ensuring a pleasant journey.
While most travelers praised the excellent tour guides and sufficient time at each location, some noted challenges with organization and logistics, such as communication issues and mechanical bus problems.
Recommendations include dressing warmly, downloading audio guides in advance, and considering the balance of time at each site.
Read our full review: Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour From London With Entry Tickets Review
Book now: Check availability
Windsor Castle & Eton Town: Private Full-Day Walking Tour
A private guided walking tour of Windsor Castle and Eton Town provides travelers with a comprehensive exploration of these two iconic British destinations.
The tour includes access to the grounds, chapel, and interior of the 1,000-year-old castle, allowing visitors to witness significant events like royal marriages and funerals. An audio-tour guide leads guests through the State Apartments, offering personalized attention for those interested in British history and monarchs.
The tour’s inclusions are extensive, with a friendly, professional English-speaking guide, admission tickets, ample time for photos, and optional hotel pickup and drop-off.
The meeting point is conveniently located at the entrance to the Royal Station and Mall, and the tour concludes at the Sir Christopher Wren Hotel, with guide assistance for the journey.
The private tour ensures a tailored experience, catering to the group’s interests. Despite the moderate physical fitness required, the wheelchair-accessible tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive exploration of Windsor Castle and Eton Town.
Read our full review: Windsor Castle & Eton Town: Private Full-Day Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Windsor Walking Tour
While the Windsor Castle & Eton Town: Private Full-Day Walking Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of these iconic British destinations, the Private Windsor Walking Tour provides travelers with a more focused experience.
Priced at $155.73 for up to 6 people, this private tour led by a knowledgeable local guide offers an intimate glimpse into the historic town of Windsor.
During the tour, guests will meet at the Windsor Guildhall, where they’ll be greeted by a guide wearing an orange jacket. The walking tour doesn’t include entry to Windsor Castle, but it does cover the town’s rich history and highlights, such as the charming High Street and the picturesque Eton.
Travelers can expect to learn about local landmarks, interact with friendly residents, and potentially discover hidden gems like the renowned George Inn and its delectable Eton Mess dessert.
With a 5-star rating based on glowing reviews, the Private Windsor Walking Tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized and immersive experience in this quintessential English town.
Read our full review: Private Windsor Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Windsor Castle and Town, Private Walking Tour
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Windsor’s renowned landmarks, the Windsor Castle and Town, Private Walking Tour grants travelers an immersive experience in this quintessential English destination.
Guided by a professional Blue Badge Guide, the 6-hour tour provides private transportation and includes entrance tickets, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience. The tour is accessible to those with strollers, though moderate physical fitness is required.
Priced at $1,239.58 per group of up to 2 people, the tour offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior. Confirmation is provided at booking, and the tour operates from January 3, 2025, to February 28, 2025, and again from January 3, 2026, to February 28, 2026.
Whether you’re seeking to learn about Windsor’s rich history or simply experience the town’s charming ambiance, this private walking tour is a must-consider option for your visit.
Read our full review: Windsor Castle and Town, Private Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Windsor Castle Private Walking Tour With Accredited Expert Guide
For travelers seeking a more intimate exploration of Windsor Castle, the Windsor Castle Private Walking Tour with Accredited Expert Guide offers an immersive experience.
Led by an accredited expert, this 3-hour private tour takes visitors through the iconic 11th-century castle, providing in-depth insights into its rich history and architectural wonders.
The tour starts at the Castle Hill House, where you will meet their guide before embarking on a journey through the castle’s highlights, including the State Apartments and the stunning St. George’s Chapel.
With a maximum group size of 4, the tour ensures a personalized experience, allowing guests to ask questions and engage with the guide at their own pace.
Priced at $259.13 per group, the tour provides excellent value, especially considering the included admission fees to Windsor Castle.
Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as the option to meet at the railway station, make this tour suitable for a wide range of travelers.
With a 5-star rating and positive reviews, the Windsor Castle Private Walking Tour is an exceptional way to explore this iconic British landmark.
Read our full review: Windsor Castle Private Walking Tour With Accredited Expert Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Windsor and Eton offer a diverse range of tours that allow visitors to explore the region’s rich history, architecture, and natural beauty. From guided walking tours of Windsor Castle and Eton to bike tours along the Thames Valley, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in learning about the royal heritage or discovering hidden gems, these tours provide a comprehensive and engaging experience.