Windsor or Hampton Court
 

I have time for one day-trip, or half-day trip, from London: which would you recommend, Windsor Castle or Hampton Court?

Are you a history buff? If so which period?

DJ: Both are fabulous and you really can't go wrong with either one. If you are going in spring or summer I would probably choose Hampton Court. <BR><BR>The gardens are some of the prettiest near London (none to speak of except for one rose garden at Windsor castle). If it is a warm day you can take a river boat back to central London. The buildings are really fascinating - especially the tudor kitchens and the Stuart wings, and the grounds are lovely<BR><BR>Windsor is also great - The Castle, Queen Mary's Doll House and St Georges Chapel. And Eton just across the river, the Great Park, and the town itself.<BR><BR>But for a "one or the other" decision - pick Hampton Court Palace.

Can both be done in one day with public transport? How?

tania: Not really - both are more than a 1/2 day trip so it isn't practical to try to do both on the same day.

Unless you are nuts about the royal family go to Hampton Court. Windsor is a bit of a tourist trap.

There's no comparison, in my opinion. Windsor Court is full of gorgeous, museum quality furnishings and artwork and ranks as one of the most beautiful castle interiors I've seen -- having been in at least 30 European castles. In addition, some of the rooms have been renovated following the fire and are fabulous. For all its grandeur, it manages to be a very warm residence. Plus, the town of Windsor is quite nice and has some good restaurants and shops. <BR><BR>Hampton Court has none of the attributes I've listed of Windsor Castle, but is nevertheless an important visit because of its history. It is largely unfurnished. Our favorite part was the basement exhibits.<BR><BR>If you have a full day, you may even want to consider Blenheim Palace, which can be done from London. Considering the other options, unless the history of Hampton Court is of particular interest to you, I'd recommend skipping it this trip.

Hi DJ,<BR><BR>Yes, you can see both in one day. We went on a one day trip to both Hampton Court and Windsor Castle. I forget the tour company's name but many hotels should have brochures about these places. Our tour took us to Hampton Court in the morning and then lunch on a small boat up the River Thames to Windsor which we visited in the afternoon.

I'm with Karin.<BR>Windsor if you want to see sumptuous furnishings, a broad slice of history, and the most-used home of the royal family.<BR>Hampton Court if you have a special interest in Henry VIII and/or architect Christopher Wren. No furnishings to speak of. It also has a wonderful outdoor maze which is a lot of fun for all ages.