Eton College

Eton College was founded in 1440 by King Henry VI to provide free education for 70 poor scholars who would then go on to further their education at King’s College, Cambridge. Life in the early days was harsh: the boys had to wash outside using only cold water. From these 70 scholars, the school has expanded to about 1,290 boys aged from 13 to 18 who are admitted by competitive examination, and has become one of the most exclusive schools in the world.

Eton has educated 18 former British Prime Ministers including the Duke of Wellington, Walpole, Pitt the Elder, MacMillan and Douglas-Home. The School Dress, which dates from the 1850s, still consists of a black tailcoat and waistcoat and pin-striped trousers.

Guided tours of the College are a fascinating experience and include the Cloisters, the College Chapel, the oldest classroom in the College and the Museum of Eton Life. Guided tours take place daily at 2.15pm and 3.15pm for individuals.

Last admission is at 16.30 and the College closes at 17.00. The Museum and College Chapel close at 17.00.
Guided tours daily at 14.15 and 15.15 for interested individuals. Unforeseen circumstances may sometimes necessitate the cancellation of guided tours or the closure of parts of the College without prior notice; please contact the Visits Office before making a special journey.

Groups of 12 people and over should book guided tours in advance please. Guided tours for groups are available from January to November. There is no direct access for vehicles over the River Thames from Windsor to Eton; Windsor Bridge is for pedestrians only.