Windsor Castle to end free admission for locals

Windsor Castle is one of the King's official residences

Free admission to Windsor Castle for local residents will end, it has been announced.

The Royal Collection Trust is halting the long-established perk from 1 June.

It had previously offered free entry to local people who had a Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Advantage Card.

Cardholders will now have to pay half the regular admission price to visit the castle.

Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate Julian Tisi said: “During the season, residents gladly welcome tourists to their shops and restaurants, they drive them around in taxis and are happy to give directions in the street.

“In return, we get to live and work near one of the most iconic buildings in the world – and visit when we choose.”

The King uses the 1,000-year-old fortress in Berkshire as one of his official residences and it is a working palace, but remains open to the public throughout the year.

Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead councillor Amy Tisi said: “We consider those in the ‘big house on the hill’ to be our neighbours and want to work with them on this to ensure no resident is priced out of visiting the castle."

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".

“We are continuing to explore ways to make the Castle as accessible as possible to visitors from the local area, with current initiatives, including free visits for community organisations working with under-represented groups, and a travel subsidy and access scheme for schools working with children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds," the spokesperson added.