Windsor Castle Accessibility

Everything you need to know about accessibility at Windsor Castle.

Windsor Castle is the official residence of the British monarch, set on a hill with cobbled paths between three wards — so accessibility takes more planning here than at a modern attraction. Inside the State Apartments, lifts and ramps make the indoor route step-free. Outside, the gradients are real. See our free & reduced tickets page for the Access Companion policy and visitors guide for general practical info.

Facilities and services in detail

Mobility

The State Apartments are reached by a lift measuring 137 cm deep × 100 cm wide with a 630 kg weight limit. Manual wheelchairs are loaned free at the cloakroom, first-come first-served (call ahead in summer to reserve). Motorised wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome in the precincts and inside the castle provided they fit the lift dimensions. Outside areas include steep cobbled paths between the wards which are challenging for manual wheelchairs; the most accessible alternative routes are signposted. Accessible toilets are available in the Lower Ward and the State Apartments. Priority access is via the main entrance — speak to a warden on arrival.

Sight

The free multimedia guide includes detailed audio descriptions of the State Apartments. Large-print guides are available at the entrance, and the Royal Collection Trust runs occasional touch tours for blind and partially sighted visitors — book in advance through the accessibility department on rct.uk. Assistance dogs are welcome.

Hearing

A British Sign Language version of the multimedia guide is provided on the same handheld device. Induction loops are available at the ticket desks and information points. BSL-led tours can be arranged on request through the Royal Collection Trust accessibility team with advance notice.

Cognitive

A family-friendly multimedia guide simplifies the route for younger visitors and those who prefer a slower pace. Quiet rooms are not formally designated, but staff can suggest the calmest sections of the route during busy days. The Royal Collection Trust occasionally runs Relaxed Openings outside normal hours for visitors with autism or sensory sensitivities.

Support offered

Services to make your visit comfortable

Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs and rollators with seat loaned free at the cloakroom, first-come basis. Motorised wheelchairs and scooters welcome — call ahead to confirm lift compatibility (max 137×100 cm, 630 kg).

Access Companion

One Access Companion of a disabled visitor enters free of charge — book the free companion ticket alongside the disabled visitor's reduced-rate ticket. See our free & reduced tickets page.

Audio & BSL guides

Free multimedia guide with audio descriptions in 8 spoken languages, plus a British Sign Language version on the same device. Large-print guides at the entrance.

Assistance dogs

Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the castle precincts, the State Apartments and St George's Chapel — no advance notice required.

Accessibility FAQ

Common questions about access at the castle

Is Windsor Castle fully wheelchair accessible?
The State Apartments are reached by lift and the indoor route is step-free. Outdoor sections between the wards are cobbled with real gradients — challenging for manual wheelchairs without a strong companion, manageable for motorised wheelchairs and scooters. The Royal Collection Trust provides a detailed access guide on rct.uk.
Can I reserve a wheelchair?
The loan is free but on a first-come, first-served basis. Call Royal Collection Trust on +44 303 123 7300 a few days ahead to confirm availability — they'll usually flag your visit and reserve one when possible.
Are Access Companions admitted free?
Yes — one Access Companion of a disabled visitor is admitted free of charge. Book the free companion ticket online alongside the disabled visitor's reduced-rate £16 ticket.
Are there sensory-friendly hours?
Royal Collection Trust runs occasional Relaxed Openings outside normal hours for visitors with autism or sensory sensitivities. Check the rct.uk events calendar; advance booking is required.
Are guide dogs allowed?
Yes. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the precincts, the State Apartments and St George's Chapel. No advance notice needed.
Is parking available for blue-badge holders?
Yes — designated Blue Badge spaces are available at the King Edward VII Avenue car park, the closest public car park to the castle. Walking distance to the entrance is around 5 minutes, mostly on level ground.
Can the cobbled paths be avoided?
Partially — some sections have signed alternative routes with smoother surfaces, but the main spine of the castle is unavoidably cobbled and sloped. Speak to a warden on arrival and they'll suggest the easiest route for your needs.
How do I book a touch tour?
Touch tours run occasionally for blind and partially sighted visitors. Book directly through the Royal Collection Trust accessibility department on rct.uk, ideally a month ahead.
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