Windsor - London Heathrow Airport Layover

London Heathrow handles more international passengers than any other airport on the planet, and as a result of it being a major hub between North America, Africa and Asia, there is the possibility of layovers.

Rather than stay at the airport all day, why not use the time to take a trip to beautiful Windsor?

You could visit Windsor Castle, the ancestral home of the Royal Family; enjoy an open-top bus tour; take a boat trip along the River Thames; or dine at one of the many restaurants, cafes or hotels in the heart of Windsor.

Please do make sure you allow time for border control at the airport!

And please note there are no left-luggage facilities in Windsor town centre; please use the left-luggage facilities at Heathrow.

Long Layover

With a long layover, you can turn a wasted day’s worth of travel into an extra day’s break. Stop by the Royal Windsor Information Centre where our friendly information assistants can suggest things to see and do, sell you tickets and let you have a free town centre map.

Windsor is most famous for Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of His Majesty The King. Tours are conducted by audio guides, included in the admission price, and so you can tailor their length to your requirements (average 2 hours).

On the day of your visit you might be lucky enough to experience Changing the Guard at 11am, up close and personal.

Then why not stop for a spot of lunch or afternoon tea at one of the many restaurants or hotels within a few minutes walk of the Castle?

Depending on time, you could enjoy a 40-minute boat trip from Windsor Promenade or explore the historic town centre of Windsor, the Long Walk, or across the river to Eton, home of the renowned Eton College, just a 20-minute walk from the Castle.

Enjoy the shopping in Windsor and Eton where high street retailers, designer labels, antique shops and department stores sit alongside quaint souvenir shops.

Short Layover

With a short layover, why not escape the humdrum of the airport for a few hours to stretch your legs, and enjoy a quality bite to eat?

For a small slice of pomp and circumstance, watch Changing the Guard, and wander around the ancient streets set in the shadow of the imposing walls of the Castle.

Stop for lunch in a lovely restaurant, or indulge in a wonderful afternoon tea.

Walk down by the river and feed the King’s swans, see the sights, before heading back to the airport.