Windsor Castle was famously Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite residence, serving as her main home for most of her life, including where she chose to spend her final years. So it’s clear this historical building holds a special place in British history, and now you can experience it in a way that’s even more magical than ever before.
From 27 November 2025 to 5 January 2026, you can visit the castle while revelling in the festive makeover it’s undergone.
A royal Christmas at one of the most historic castles in the world
The largest room in the castle, St George’s Hallwhich has hosted state visits and banquets dating back to the 14th century, will house a 20-foot Nordmann fir tree. The tree itself has been grown in Windsor Great Park and will be decorated from head to toe in three thousand sparkling lights, as well as green and gold ornaments (quintessential for any good Christmas tree if you ask me).
Other highlights include getting access to the Crimson Drawing Room, which is only open to the public during the winter months. The red silk walks make the perfect location for another Christmas tree.
As if two trees wasn’t enough, you can find a teeny tiny 45cm tree hidden away Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House. This minature tree will be bedazzled by repurposed beads from vintage necklaces, and tiny candles made with real candle wax.
If, after all your festive exploring, you feel peckish, you can grab something from the seasonal menu at the Undercroft Café, which you’ll find in the oldest part of the building.
There will also be activities inspired by Victorian traditions happening on the grounds, including festive crafts and local choirs singing carols on select days.
Tickets and getting to Windsor Castle
Getting to Windsor fro London is fairly easy. You can either catch a train to Windsor and Eton Riverside from Waterloo or catch a train to Windsor and Eton Central from Paddington, changing at Slough. Both stations are a short walk to the castle.
Advance tickets cost £31 and can be purchased from the Royal Collections Trust website. However, for the first time ever any visitors receiving Universal Credit will be able to purchase tickets for just £1.
