A Royal Day Out: Windsor and Stonehenge

Our guests enjoying a perfect day exploring Windsor and Stonehenge.

Guests enjoying a perfect day exploring the delights to both Windsor and Stonehenge

Combining Windsor and Stonehenge in a single day is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the best of England beyond the capital. These two world-famous landmarks offer history, culture and breathtaking scenery, making them the perfect combination for a full-day adventure.

But what makes these two locations so special? Let’s take a closer look:

Discover the Living History of Royal Windsor

Your day starts in the charming town of Windsor, home to Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Our Private Windsor Tours let guests step right into centuries of royal history. With your expert guide, there is so much to discover at a comfortable and relaxed pace.

 

The magnificent Windsor Castle, home to centuries of royal tradition.

Magnificent Windsor Castle, home to centuries of royal tradition.

One of the biggest advantages of travelling with London Magical Tours is the seamless experience from the moment you arrive. Your chauffeur drops you right at the Castle, avoiding long walks and parking challenges, while your personal guide brings the stories of this royal residence to life.

Uncover the Timeless Landscape of Stonehenge

After Windsor, your private vehicle heads into the English countryside for a scenic drive to one of the most iconic sites in the world. Our Private Stonehenge Tours give you the time and space to explore this ancient monument with expert insight and clear explanations, that add so much needed depth to the visit.

 

The iconic stones of Stonehenge.

The iconic stones at Stonehenge – a true world wonder

Want to hear more?

Take a look at what recent guests from the United States had to say about their day out: praising their driver and guide for creating a smooth, insightful and perfectly timed experience – even enjoying beautiful weather at both landmarks – which cannot always be guaranteed!

 

Visiting Windsor and Stonehenge with London Magical Tours?

If you join us on tour, feel free to share your photos and stories by tagging @londonmagicaltours and using #londonmagicaltours. We love seeing how guests experience these landmarks from their own perspective.


A Royal Christmas at Windsor

The majestic Christmas tree at St George's Hall, Windsor Castle

The majestic Christmas tree at St George’s Hall, Windsor Castle

A Christmas visit to Windsor always feels special — and thanks to Queen Victoria’s own writings, we get a wonderful glimpse into how the royal family celebrated the festive season more than 170 years ago. Her 1850 diary entries reveal a warm and intimate Christmas filled with family traditions, gift-giving – and timeless royal charm.

 

A sweeping view of Windsor Castle’s grand exterior, a timeless symbol of the British monarchy.

Windsor Castle: A timeless symbol of the British monarchy.

Christmas Eve at Windsor Castle

On 24 December 1850, Queen Victoria describes a quiet, wintry morning at Windsor as she walked with her children, while Prince Albert went shooting. Much of the day was spent preparing and giving presents — to Lady Lyttelton, their personal staff and members of the household.

Her highlight was seeing the Christmas tree and table, lovingly prepared by Prince Albert:

“My beloved Albert took me to my tree & table, covered by such numberless gifts, really too much, too magnificent.”

Among her treasures were watercolours, oil paintings and a bracelet designed by Albert himself, holding a miniature of Princess Louise — a gift she called “of infinite value.” The children “jumped & shouted with joy” over their toys, filling the castle with festive excitement.

 

Christmas Day at the Castle

On 25 December, Victoria reflected with gratitude on “the return of this blessed season.” She enjoyed a mild winter’s walk with her children, attended Christmas service, and revisited her gifts throughout the day. The castle glowed once again in the evening as the trees were lit and the children played happily around them.

 

Queen Victoria would have 9 children with Prince Albert and many wonderful Christmases together - before his young passing led to her dressing in black

Queen Victoria would have 9 children with Prince Albert and many wonderful Christmases together – before his young passing led to her dressing in black

The royal household gathered for Christmas dinner, with the young princes and princesses appearing throughout the meal — a lovely reminder that even royal celebrations revolved around family.

Boxing Day continued the festivities with charades, poetry recitations and performances by the children, including young Bertie (later King Edward VII), who recited Shakespeare’s Seven Agesremarkably well.” Despite the dull weather, Windsor remained bustling with warmth and cheer.

These diary glimpses offer a touching look into a Victorian royal Christmas — a magic that still lingers today when exploring Windsor Castle on a Private Windsor Tour.

 

Visiting Windsor with London Magical Tours?

Share your magical moments with us by tagging @londonmagicaltours and using #londonmagicaltours. Whether it’s royal landmarks, countryside strolls or hidden gems, we’d love to see how you’re celebrating this holiday season.


The Magic of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws millions of visitors each year.

The Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws millions of visitors each year.

A symbol of absolute monarchy and architectural grandeur, the Palace of Versailles remains one of France’s most iconic and visited landmarks.

From the breathtaking Hall of Mirrors, to the manicured gardens stretching across almost 2,000 acres, Versailles offers an unforgettable journey into the past.

What can you expect to discover on Paris Magical Tours Private Versailles Tours? Let’s take a closer look:

1. The Gardens of Versailles

The stunning Gardens of Versailles are a living work of art spanning 1,980 acres, with over 210,000 flowers planted every year.

These world-famous gardens are filled with intricate fountains, geometrically precise landscapes and elegant statues that reflect the might and majesty of King Louis XIV’s vision. Guests on Paris Magical Tours’ guided tours are able to discover hidden details most visitors miss, as well as be at the perfect spot to enjoy the musical fountain shows that take place at certain times of the year. Just breathtaking!

A soft breeze will surround you with the fragrance of blossoms.

The Gardens at Versailles – a royal marvel!

2. Step Inside the Château: The Castle where Kings and Queens Once Lived

After a serene guided walk through the gardens, it’s time to step into the Château de Versailles itself. This immense royal palace is home to some of the most iconic spaces in France:

  • The Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed
  • The Royal Chapel, a masterpiece of sacred art and architecture
  • The King’s and Queen’s State Apartments, the opulently decorated rooms where Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette once held court
Just one look and get ready to be transported back to 1682.

The Great Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles

3. Visit the Museum of the History of France

The Palace of Versailles Museum, officially part of the palace complex, is one of the largest and most significant history museums in France. Created by King Louis-Philippe in 1837, it is dedicated to “all the glories of France” and offers a deep dive into the nation’s royal, political and military past.

Home to over 6,000 paintings and 3,000 sculptures, it's one of Europe's largest fine art collections.

The Museum of the History of France – Home to over 6,000 paintings and 3,000 sculptures

From the grandeur of the gardens to the opulence of the royal apartments, Versailles is much more than a day trip — it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of French history.

If you’re looking for something extra space, the Versailles VIP Tours offer an unrivalled way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site in the most comfortable, informative and luxurious way possible. Pick up and return is included to your central Paris accommodation in a chauffeur driven vehicle, with your own Versailles Palace expert to take you on a journey of discovery through the Palace and its gardens.

For more details, visit http://www.parismagicaltours.com


The Magic of Windsor

Windsor is the perfect day trip out to the English countryside

Windsor is the perfect day trip out to the English countryside

Looking for a day trip from London?

Windsor offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the biggest metropolis in Western Europe – a quintessentially British experience filled with royal history, stunning countryside and timeless charm.

But what makes a visit to Windsor so special? Lets take a closer look:

 

1. Almost 1000 years of History at Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world — and one of the official residences of the British monarch. From the moment you approach the grand entrance, you’re transported into a world of kings, queens, and centuries-old traditions.

Whether you’re a history lover or a casual traveler, witnessing the grandeur of Windsor Castle in person is a bucket-list-worthy moment. For a truly special way of discovering the Castle, Private Windsor Tours offer a unique a personal journey with your own professional tour guide plus chauffeur.

 

Imagine walking in this magical pathway #ExperiencemagicwithLondonMagicalTours

The world famous St George’s Hall inside Windsor Castle. Share your photos with the hashtag #LondonMagicalTours

 

2. St George’s Chapel: Where Kings and Queens Rest

St George’s Chapel is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the UK. It’s the spiritual heart of Windsor Castle and the final resting place of many monarchs, including the late Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Phillip, as well as legendary monarchs like Charles I and Henry VIII. It also served as the romantic setting for Prince Harry and Meghan’s royal wedding back in 2018.

Whether you’re drawn by its architectural beauty or its historical significance, St George’s Chapel is a moving and memorable stop and well worth exploring on a private Windsor Castle tour.

 

A beautiful architecture full of history and amazing stories.

St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle

3. Windsor Great Park: Stunning Countryside and Serenity

Windsor is however much more than just the Castle. Alongside the charming historic town and the River Thames, a visit to Windsor cannot be complete without a drive through the Great Park, offering a moment of tranquility amidst your sightseeing.

Once the private hunting ground of royalty, this sprawling parkland now welcomes visitors with miles of walking trails, ancient oak trees, deer herds and sweeping views of the castle from The Long Walk — an iconic avenue leading directly to the castle gates.

 

Feel the fresh breeze of the air brought by the nature

Windsor Great Park, the former hunting ground of the British Monarchy

Visiting Windsor with London Magical Tours?

Share your magical moments with us by tagging @londonmagicaltours in your photos and using the hashtag #londonmagicaltours. Whether it’s royal landmarks, countryside strolls or hidden gems, show us how you’re making the most of the season—we can’t wait to welcome you.


A Traditional Royal Christmas

royal chritmas card

A Very Merry Christmas Card from the Royal Family

All families have their own Christmas traditions. Whether it’s baking gingerbread cookies, taking part in carol singing or simply getting together to watch your favourite holiday movies.

But have you ever wondered how the Royal family celebrate the lead up to Christmas?

Read on to hear some of the better known Royal family Christmas traditions. You can learn more about the secretive ones on London Magical Tours’ award winning London Christmas Lights Tours.

 

Present exchange

When do the Royal Family exchange gifts? Clue: It’s not Christmas Day!

One of the most famous Royal family traditions was introduced by Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. In line with German tradition, the Royal family actually exchange their gifts on the 24th of December, Christmas Eve. The gifts are then laid out on tables for each family member to open after tea time (that’s after dinner for our non-UK cousins).

 

church

Christmas Day service – At Sandringham

The monarch traditionally spends Christmas at the residence known as Sandringham, a countryside estate in Norfolk. The invited Royal family members visiting that year are then given an allocated time to arrive at Sandringham: the youngest member arrives first and the eldest member last. Once everyone has arrived, the final touches are put on the Christmas tree, a tradition also made popular by Prince Albert.

 

king charles christmas speech

The Kings Christmas Speech. Credit BBC

Christmas Day begins with the Sandringham Christmas Day service, where the Royal family attend mass and step out of the St Mary Magdalene Church to greet the public.

To conclude Christmas Day, King Charles will continue the tradition of broadcasting a speech to the country and across the Commonwealth. As the speech is pre-recorded, the royal family will watch it together after their Christmas lunch. In previous years this has include prawns or lobster for starters, a turkey with all the trimmings as the main course – and Christmas pudding with brandy for dessert.

 

For more information on London Magical Tours’ luxury London tours,  as well as this year’s Christmas tours, visit the London Magical Tours website: https://www.londonmagicaltours.com