Windsor Castle Rules

Important rules and regulations for visiting Windsor Castle to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Windsor Castle is the official residence of the British monarch and shares the strict security rules in place across all royal palaces. The two surprises for first-time visitors are a total ban on photography inside the State Apartments and St George's Chapel, and a strict bag-size policy. See our visitors guide and accessibility page for related info.

Key rules to know

A short list — the rest is normal palace etiquette

No photography indoors

Photography and filming are not permitted inside the State Apartments or St George's Chapel — this includes phone cameras, smart watches and any wearable device. Outside in the precincts photography is encouraged. Drones are banned everywhere at Windsor.

Bag size limit

Large bags cannot enter the State Apartments — they must be checked at the free cloakroom in the China Museum just inside the entrance. Bring as little as possible to speed up security. No suitcases at all.

Airport-style security

All visitors pass through metal detectors and bag X-ray at the entrance. Allow 10–15 extra minutes during peak hours and on school half-term Saturdays. Sharp objects, including pen-knives, are not permitted.

No food or drink indoors

Eating and drinking are not allowed in the State Apartments or St George's Chapel. The Undercroft Café in the Lower Ward and the outdoor refreshment kiosk are available, and bringing a picnic to eat on a bench outside is welcome on dry days.

Rules & Regulations FAQ

Common questions about what's allowed

Why is photography forbidden inside?
The State Apartments and St George's Chapel are working royal interiors, and the Royal Collection includes paintings, tapestries and furnishings that belong to the monarch personally. The blanket photo ban protects sensitive pigments from flash, manages crowd flow and respects the residential character of the palace.
Are sketchbooks allowed?
Yes — pencil sketching is welcome and is a long tradition at royal palaces. No pens, paint or ink in the State Apartments. Bring your sketchbook through security but expect it to be inspected.
What size bag is allowed inside?
Small day bags can come into the State Apartments. Anything larger (rucksacks, large totes, shopping bags) must be checked at the China Museum cloakroom. Suitcases of any size are not accepted at all — store them at Windsor & Eton Central left luggage or at your hotel.
Are tripods, drones or selfie sticks permitted?
No to all three. Drones are banned anywhere within Windsor Castle and the surrounding restricted airspace. Tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed inside the precincts at all.
Can I bring a baby carrier or pushchair?
Baby carriers are welcome throughout. Pushchairs are permitted in the outdoor precincts but must be folded and carried up the Grand Staircase and inside the State Apartments — staff can store them at the cloakroom while you visit.
Is the castle quiet inside?
Voices are kept low in the State Apartments and silence is requested inside St George's Chapel out of respect for the burial place of the monarchs. Phone calls are not permitted indoors.
Can I bring food?
No food or drink in the State Apartments or St George's Chapel. The Undercroft Café is open daily, and Windsor town centre has dozens of options 3 minutes downhill. Picnics on the benches outside are fine on a dry day.
Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code — wear comfortable shoes (the cobbled paths are steep) and a layer for windy days on the Round Tower slope. For Choral Evensong at St George's Chapel, smart-casual is appreciated as a courtesy.
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