A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Windsor vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Windsor or Cairngorms National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a royal, traditional, and touristy town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a tranquil, remote, and beautiful national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Windsor and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Windsor. Although Windsor and Cairngorms National Park are both popular with visitors, Windsor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Windsor is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cairngorms National Park is known for its hiking. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. It is also home to The Windsor Castle. Cairngorms National Park is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

How is Windsor different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park and Windsor. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Windsor is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Foodies will find both Windsor and Cairngorms National Park both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Cairngorms National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Windsor or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Windsor is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Windsor. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Windsor or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Windsor is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Windsor or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is Windsor or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

Is Windsor or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Windsor and Cairngorms National Park make for a great place to visit.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Cairngorms National Park is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.


Is Windsor or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Windsor is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Windsor has some public transit options. There is a bus system around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Windsor or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Windsor
Cairngorms National Park

Windsor is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Windsor is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Windsor or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Windsor because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Windsor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cairngorms National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Windsor than Cairngorms National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Windsor that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and museums. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Cairngorms National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Windsor is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Cairngorms National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cairngorms National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Windsor is a great place to explore. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairngorms National Park. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Windsor?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is £119. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Windsor and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Cairngorms National Park £56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Cairngorms National Park £112
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Cairngorms National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Windsor


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Windsor Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Cairngorms National Park £53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Windsor change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Windsor £39
    Cairngorms National Park £30
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Cairngorms National Park £26

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Cairngorms National Park £8.41


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Windsor and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Windsor is more expensive. And not only is Cairngorms National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cairngorms National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cairngorms National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Windsor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Windsor than you might in Cairngorms National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Windsor Expensive? and Is Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Windsor or Cairngorms National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Windsor or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Cairngorms National Park. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Windsor usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cairngorms National Park. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Windsor during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Cairngorms National Park can be very cold during winter. Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. Windsor is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Cairngorms National Park. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Cairngorms National Park. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Windsor is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Windsor in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Windsor

Windsor Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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