Residents disappointed by Windsor Castle admission change

Windsor Castle is one of the King's official residences

A decision to end local residents' free admission to Windsor Castle has got a big thumbs down from locals – with one saying it had left her feeling “sick”.

The Royal Collection Trust will stop the perk from 1 June.

All those with a Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Advantage Card can currently get in for nothing.

But they will need to pay half the regular admission price from next month.

Ella Wenborne said she will not be going to the castle following the change

A regular adult ticket is £30 if booked in advance and £3 more if bought on the day.

Pensioner Ella Wenborne said: "Well, I won’t be going. I can’t afford it.

"I do have the [card]... but no way will I go in there and pay that sort of price, it’s too expensive.

“It makes me feel sick, really sick. They don’t appreciate the people who live in this county, this area. They just want money. That’s all everybody wants: money, money, money.”

Simone Pengrave thought the change was "appalling"

A Royal Collection Trust spokesperson said it “regularly" reviewed its pricing and updated its policy to "be in line with other businesses in the borough".

But Simone Pengrave, who lives in Wokingham, thought the change was wrong.

“I think it’s appalling. The castle is the heart of Windsor and it draws so many people from far and wide and for the locals, that’s their home castle.

"You would expect there to be free access. I think it’s really sad,” she told BBC Radio Berkshire.

Robert Watson said the change was disappointing

Anyone who lives in the Royal borough can apply for an Advantage Card, which also includes offers at Ascot Racecourse, Royal Windsor Racecourse, Legoland Windsor and The Savill Garden.

Resident Robert Watson said: "It’s very disappointing. I’ve lived here for 50 years and I’ve often had visitors who wanted to visit the castle and I’ve been able to go round with them but I haven’t had to pay for myself.

"I shall be a little more reluctant to do that too often in the future."