Side-by-side verdict, prices and tips. We pick a winner — but both have a place if you have time.
If you only have time for one, pick Hampton Court Palace. Yes, it's arguably the best-value royal day out in London: a genuine Tudor palace, 60 acres of gardens and the famous maze for £28. Allow at least half a day plus the 35-minute train from Waterloo. Windsor Castle is still worth it, just rank it below.
From £28 · 4–5 hours
Yes, it's arguably the best-value royal day out in London: a genuine Tudor palace, 60 acres of gardens and the famous maze for £28. Allow at least half a day plus the 35-minute train from Waterloo.
From £31 · 3–4 hours (+1 hour travel each way)
Yes, Windsor Castle is the best royal day out from London. Book the 10am entry, head straight for St George's Chapel before the coach groups arrive, and remember the castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
| Spec | Hampton Court Palace | Windsor Castle |
|---|---|---|
| TripScore | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Verdict | Must-do | Worth it |
| From | £28 | £31 |
| Value (score per £) | 0.30 | 0.27 |
| Time required | 4–5 hours | 3–4 hours (+1 hour travel each way) |
| Setting | Indoor | Indoor |
| Best time today | 10am opening, spring | 10am opening, Thu–Mon |
| Value for money | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| Experience | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 |
| Crowds & wait | 8.3/10 | 6.6/10 |
