William Reveals a Tourist’s Unexpected Comment About Windsor Castle That Still Gives Royals a Laugh

It's hard to be updated on the many residences of the royal family; after all, they own over 30 Crown properties and private homes across the UK. So, when Prince William shared a hilarious anecdote about a confused Windsor Castle tourist on The Reluctant Traveler, he couldn’t help but empathize with him. In a conversation with Eugene Levy, the Prince of Wales recalled a visitor who wasn't happy with the Castle being built too close to Heathrow Airport. He revealed that the person’s lack of historical knowledge still amuses the royal family.

In the episode, Living the Royal Life in the UK, William gave Levy a private tour of Windsor Castle while sharing candid insights into his life. Recalling the funny story about the tourist, he said, "The tour guides get to hear some funny stories. We heard back one time, that — I won’t name the nationality of the tourist, but they were looking around the Castle going, 'Wow this place is incredible, but why did they have to build the Castle so close to Heathrow Airport?'" With a hearty laugh, William quipped that the moment "has gone down as the sort of number one quote of a tourist going around Windsor Castle." He continued, "I know my history is bad, but that’s another level."

For the unversed, Windsor Castle was built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, with additional state apartments added in the 19th century. It served as a safe refuge during wars and a residence for successful monarchs. The Castle later opened its doors to tourists in certain areas, including the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and the grounds. Meanwhile, Heathrow Airport was opened much later as a small airfield in 1930, eventually becoming London’s largest airport after World War II. 

During the tour, the Prince of Wales also reminisced about his fond childhood memories in the Castle. He said, "My cousins and I, and the family, would chase each other up and down here and do silly games. I remember these carpets weren’t here, and there were a couple of spots where you used to have to watch out because you’d get massive splinters." He lovingly shared that he has passed down this playful tradition to his three children. "We come in after hours and chase each other around sometimes…My children don’t realize how lucky they are."

William also noted how dear the residence was to his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth. When Levy asked if he remembered his grandmother here, the Prince admitted, "I do miss my grandmother and my grandfather. It's been quite a bit of change, so you do sort of think about them not being here anymore, and particularly being in Windsor. For me, Windsor is her." He explained that the late Queen spent most of her time with her beloved horses, making the Castle her favorite residence. William and his grandmother were close in her later years, with the Queen teaching him the ropes as the future King.