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- London To Windsor Castle Tours
- St George's Chapel
- History
- Architecture
- Inside
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Contents
How to buy St George's Chapel tickets?
St George's Chapel | Quick facts
- Official name: St George's Chapel
- Address: Windsor Castle, 2 The Cloisters, Windsor SL4 1NJ, United Kingdom
- Year of opening: 1511
- Timings: 10am - 4pm
- Function: Place of worship
Why visit St George's Chapel
- Architectural eye candy: This chapel is straight out of a fairytale. St George's Chapel's stunning architecture is a sight to behold, showcasing intricate Perpendicular Gothic design and impressive craftsmanship.
- Royal burials: The chapel is also steeped in history, being the burial place of many monarchs, including Henry VIII, Charles I, and the late Queen Elizabeth II, adding a sense of regal grandeur to your visit.
- Wedding bells for royals: If you love a good royal wedding, this chapel has seen its fair share. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot here in 2018, which drew worldwide attention.
- Service at a royal chapel: St George's Chapel is still an active place of worship, hosting regular services and events. Experiencing a service within its hallowed walls can be a deeply moving and spiritual experience.
St George's Chapel highlights
Gothic architecture
This chapel is a total stunner! Marvel at the stunning Perpendicular Gothic architecture of the chapel, characterized by its high ceilings with fancy arches, walls covered in detailed carvings, and stained glass windows that look like works of art. The architecture itself is a testament to the skill and artistry of medieval craftsmen.
Quire
Admire the beautifully carved wooden seats in the choir section, where the Knights of the Garter sit during the annual Garter Service. These aren't your average pews – they're like works of art! They're carved with tons of detail and even have the knights' coats of arms on them.
Stained glass windows
Don't miss the giant stained-glass windows! They are colorful storyboards showing scenes from the Bible, important saints, and other religious motifs. The colorful glasswork adds to the spiritual atmosphere of the chapel and provides a glimpse into medieval religious art.
Chapter House
Right next to the chapel is the octagonal room called the Chapter House. This is the meeting room for the Knights of the Garter. This room features a high, arched ceiling decorated with the knights' symbols and a big pillar in the center. It's where the Garter have their ceremonies, gatherings, and important discussions!
Nave
Walk down the main aisle of the chapel called the Nave. As you make your way towards the altar, keep an eye out for all the memorials, plaques, and artwork on the walls. These commemorate past kings, queens, and other notable people connected to the chapel's history.
Organ
This chapel isn't just about the pretty windows and fancy carvings! They've also got a massive organ, renowned for its powerful sound and exquisite craftsmanship. The organ is often used during services, concerts, royal weddings, and funerals, including Prince Philip’s funeral, adding a musical dimension to the overall experience.
Choir screen
Check out the intricate screen that separates the choir area from the main aisle. It's ornate, with all sorts of carvings and delicate details. It serves as a visual barrier while allowing the sounds of the choir to resonate throughout the chapel during services.
Cloisters
Tucked around the chapel, you'll find these peaceful walkways called cloisters. They're like little courtyards with pretty arches and beautiful architectural details. It's a perfect spot to relax after exploring the chapel and enjoy some quiet time with a view of the Windsor Castle grounds.
Plan your visit to St George's Chapel
Opening hours
Location
Accessibility
Timings: 10am to 4pm
Sunday: Only open for worship
Closed: Tuesday and Wednesday
Best time to visit: If you prefer a more peaceful visit, aim for a visit between October and February. Be warned that it can get a bit brisk out there! May to September is when the weather shines (literally and figuratively) but expect more company.
Best time to visitAddress: 2 The Cloisters, Windsor SL4 1NJ, UK
St George's Chapel is tucked in the Lower Ward of Windsor Castle. The castle itself sits on a high spot overlooking the River Thames, about 21 miles west of central London.
Getting to St George's Chapel
- The chapel is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and lifts available to facilitate entry for visitors with mobility challenges. Wheelchairs are also available for loan on-site, although availability may vary.
- Designated accessible parking spaces are available near the entrance to Windsor Castle for visitors with disabilities. These spaces are conveniently located to minimize the distance required to reach the chapel.
- Accessible restroom facilities equipped with grab bars and other accessibility features are available within Windsor Castle, ensuring visitors with disabilities can access necessary amenities.
- Service animals, such as guide dogs, are welcome inside St George's Chapel and throughout Windsor Castle.
- The chapel offers assistive listening devices for visitors with hearing impairments, allowing them to better hear guided tours, audio presentations, or services held within the chapel.
- The staff at Windsor Castle are trained to assist visitors with disabilities and can provide guidance and support as needed. Don't hesitate to reach out to staff members if you require assistance.
History of St George's Chapel
During the reign of Edward IV, the monarch commissioned the construction of St George's Chapel within the grounds of Windsor Castle. The construction of St George's Chapel began in 1475 and spanned several decades. The chapel embodies the craftsmanship of the late Gothic style, boasting intricate stonework, soaring vaulted ceilings, and magnificent stained glass windows. A baroque gold service was added to the chapel during the reign of Charles I.
Detailed historyArchitecture and design of St George's Chapel
St George's Chapel was built between the late 1400s and early 1500s in the Perpendicular Gothic style. Inside, there are ornately carved wooden choir stalls from the 1400s. They even got fixed up and expanded in the 1700s by Henry Emlyn. The chapel has a mix of old and new. There's a grand Victorian door and staircase on the west side for ceremonies. The east window is also Victorian with stained glass, but another oriel window on the north side is even older. Historians claim this chapel is one of England's best examples of Gothic architecture.
More about architectureFrequently Asked Questions about St George's Chapel
Can I visit St George's Chapel with Windsor Castle tickets?
Yes, a standard Windsor Castle ticket provides entry to St George's Chapel. The ticket also provides access to the State Apartments, the Semi-State Rooms, the Round Tower, the China Museum, and Queen Mary's Doll's House.
Can I attend a service at St George’s Chapel?
Yes, you can attend a service at the chapel for free. You do not need to buy a ticket. Arrive at the King Henry VIII Gate (the visitor exit) 15 minutes before the service begins.
Is there music at all the services?
The Chapel Choir normally sings 6 days a week and does not sing on Wednesdays.
Is photography allowed at St George's Chapel?
No, photography or recording of any kind is not allowed inside St George's Chapel or the State Apartments. However, you are free to take photographs outside the castle premises.
Is there a cafe at St George’s Chapel?
No, there is no cafe. However, feel free to visit the Undercroft Cafe at Windsor Castle near the State Apartments during opening hours.
Is St George's Chapel wheelchair accessible?
Yes, St George's Chapel is wheelchair accessible, provided they are compatible with lifts. You can also reach out to the staff at Windsor Castle for any assistance as they are trained to help visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair entry to the chapel is through the North Door, and ramps are available.
Is there a dress code for visiting St George's Chapel?
No, there is no mandatory dress code to be followed inside St George's Chapel. However, since this is a place of worship, it is expected to wear modest clothes and avoid wearing flip-flops, shorts, or tank tops.
Are there any restrooms available at St George’s Chapel?
There are no restrooms in the chapel. However, you can make use of the facilities in the Windsor Castle North Terrace and cafe during the castle opening hours.
Can I get married at St George's Chapel?
No. Only knights, Windsor Castle residents, College of St George residents, and members of the royal family can get married at St George’s Chapel, with the King’s permission.
