Rainy Day Activities in Windsor
By Editorial Team · Last updated 16/08/2026
- Best season
- April to September
- How to get there
- 35-50 minutes by train from London Paddington/Waterloo
- Avg. visit duration
- half-day to 1 day
Windsor, like much of England, can be prone to showers, and we’ve all experienced the sudden downpour that transforms a pleasant outing into something a little less so. But don't let a bit of rain dampen your spirits – there are plenty of fantastic ways to spend a rainy day in this historic town. Based on the range of tours available, certain options prove particularly well-suited when the skies open up, and we’ve picked out some recommendations for you.
Let’s start with what works best when the weather isn't cooperating: our historical tours are undoubtedly your strongest bet. With sixteen different options ranging in price from £6 to a substantial £324, there’s something to suit almost every budget and interest. The top-rated “Private Tour of Windsor Town with Skip-the-Line Castle Tickets” at 5.0/5 is especially noteworthy – its focus on the town itself means that much of the experience takes place under cover, whether it's exploring the historic streets or enjoying a guided visit. These tours are consistently highly rated and provide a fantastic way to delve into Windsor’s rich past without being significantly impacted by the elements. The price range makes them accessible, too; you could easily find an option within your budget.
Bus tours also offer a reliable solution for rainy days. There are twelve different bus tour options available, ranging from £20 up to £3,000 – a wide spectrum that allows you to choose a route and experience level that aligns with your preferences. The “Private Royal Borough Scenic Tour with Windsor Castle Views” is the top-rated bus tour at 5.0/5, providing sheltered views of the area while you’re transported around. Given the nature of a bus tour, you'll be largely protected from the rain, and it allows for comfortable observation of the town’s landmarks. The higher end of this price range might feel like an investment, but the comfort and guaranteed views make it worthwhile in less-than-ideal conditions.
When it comes to walking tours, while we have two options available – ranging from £79 to £365 – they tend to be more vulnerable when the weather turns wet. The “Windsor Castle & Eton Town: Private Full-Day Walking Tour,” currently enjoying a 5.0/5 rating, is undeniably fantastic, but much of it involves outdoor exploration within the castle grounds and along the streets. A heavy downpour will inevitably impact your enjoyment, particularly if you're trying to take in all the sights. The higher price point reflects this more intensive experience, so consider that when weighing up the options with a rainy day forecast.
It’s important to note that we currently don’t have any adventure tours or private adventure tours available, which wouldn’t be ideal for wet weather.
Considering these options, it's clear that historical and bus-based tours provide the most consistent experience regardless of the weather. The ability to spend your day learning about Windsor’s past or enjoying a comfortable scenic route is significantly enhanced when the rain falls.
Of course, even with careful planning, unexpected delays can happen. We strongly recommend having a backup plan in case the weather proves persistently poor. Many pubs and cafes around Windsor offer cozy interiors where you can enjoy a drink, a meal, or simply relax while watching the rain fall. Booking a historical tour allows you to reschedule if needed, and many of our tours have flexible booking policies. Alternatively, consider purchasing a guidebook or exploring at your own pace – there's always something interesting to discover in this beautiful town, even on a grey day.