day tours from london to highclere castle

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The best Highclere Castle Tours from London

See the real Downton Abbey, a stunning Jacobean country house also known as Highclere Castle, on these day trips from the British capital.

(Photo: Viator.com)

You might have already seen some of architect Charles Barry’s work while you were in London at Trafalgar Square before, but Highclere Castle is one of his finest works. Along with stunning landscaped gardens, created by the revered Capability Brown, it makes for one of the most remarkable stately homes open to the public in the UK right now. Highclere Castle is a mere 60 miles (97km) from central London, so tours such as these four, often including some extra stops thrown onto the itinerary, are the perfect way to have a hassle free experience.

Downton Abbey and Village Tour from London by Coach

For fans of the Downton Abbey drama, this nine-hour tour is designed to immerse you in the world of the show, through visits to key locations. See the quaint village of Bampton, which was the setting for Downton Village, as well as Downton Abbey itself, the remarkable Highclere Castle, where you’ll be able to spend three hours exploring inside the building, including some of the very rooms used to film the drama series. You’ll also hear lots of behind-the-scenes anecdotes from your guide. From £125 per person.

Book at Viator.com

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

Downton Abbey, Cotswolds, and Highclere Castle Tour

As time has passed since the filming of Downton Abbey, themed tours to Highclere Castle are increasingly infrequent. This occasional tour still has one of the best itineraries of all Downton Abbey tours. You’ll visit many sites recognizable from the show Downton Abbey, such as Bampton Village, Shilton, and the Swan Inn at Swinbrook, where many controversial scenes took place. Access to Highclere Castle is also included, with a tour of the gardens and castle. From £189 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Downton Abbey Countryside Black Taxi VIP Tour

A good solution to the infrequency of Downton Abbey tours these days from London is to take a private tour instead. And what quirkier manner than to do so in a black London taxicab? Available on Monday every week, you and your group of up to six people (which also makes this the best value tour per person for groups of five or six) can have your own bespoke tour in your own personal black cab. Your driver will pick you up in central London and take you into Oxfordshire to visit the villages used to film the show. Please note that the entry fee to Highclere Castle is not included. From £699 per group.

Private Round Trip Transfer to Highclere Castle from London

One final option is to book a roundtrip journey from London to Highclere Castle, stopping at nearby villages along the way. Although not officially a tour, there are some perks to this choice. You and four other people can ride for a set fee, making it better value when there are more of you. This option is one of the very few that happens to be available most days of the year. As with the above option, admission tickets to Highclere Castle are not included but can be purchased in advance. From £407 per group.

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Book Downton Abbey Tours from London

Downton Abbey: Guided Day Tour of Highclere Castle, Oxford & Bampton from London

• You can cancel these tickets up to 10 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Visit the real filming locations of the hit series 'Downtown Abbey' on this guided day tour of picturesque Bampton and Highclere Castle with return London transfers.
• Embark on a journey to Oxford and bask in the beauty of this historic university, surrounded by some of Europe's most iconic architecture.
• Your guide will let you in on stories that occurred during the filming of Downton Abbey as you visit Bampton and the magnificent Highclere Castle.
• Explore important landmarks from the series including the hospital, the post office, the taverns, and the home where Matthew Crawley's mother formerly lived.
• Take home a copy of one of Lady Carnarvon's books as a souvenir of this memorable experience.
• Guided walking tour of Oxford
• Guided tours of Bampton & Highclere Castle
• Expert English-speaking guide
• Return transfers to London
• A copy of Lady Carnarvon's book
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Tip: It's an ideal option to visit during spring or autumn when the crowds are less and the weather is pleasant.

Full-Day Tour of Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & The Cotswolds

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Set off from Victoria Coach Station on a day-long tour to witness Oxfordshire's rich heritage starting with the Cotswolds.
• Travel in style with our Wi-Fi-enabled, USB-equipped coach and get expert guide's insights, amplified via personal audio headsets.
• Step into Bampton's lanes, the backdrop of Downton Abbey, a renowned TV series. Explore Downton Cottage Hospital and other key sites.
• Venture to Bourton-on-the-Water and bask in its serene ambiance, reminiscent of Venice, and stroll along the tranquil River Windrush.
• Upgrade your ticket to include Blenheim Palace entry fees to explore the palace.
• Full-day tour of Oxfordshire
• Expert English-speaking tour guide
• Round-trip transfers from the meeting point
• Free WiFi on coach
• Personal audio headset
• Blenheim Palace entry (optional)
• Tip: Try spotting the exact place where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to Clementine Hozier from the formal gardens
• This Tour does not visit Highclere Castle from the Downton Abbey series

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Downton Abbey Tours: Discover the Elegance of the English Countryside

Downton Abbey Tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the exquisite beauty of the English countryside. The tour takes visitors on a journey through the picturesque landscapes that served as the backdrop for the hit TV series. From the stunning Highclere Castle, which served as the iconic Downton Abbey, to the quaint villages and historic buildings, visitors can immerse themselves in the elegance and charm of the Downton Abbey era. With experienced guides, Downton Abbey Tours promise an unforgettable experience that will leave you enchanted with the timeless elegance of the English countryside.

Planning to explore Downton Abbey? Book your tickets online!

Consider booking your Downton Abbey tickets online for a hassle-free and seamless experience. Here are some reasons why booking your tickets online is the way to go:

Guaranteed Availability : Booking your tickets online in advance ensures that you secure your spot and avoid any last-minute disappointments. You'll have peace of mind knowing that your tour is booked and confirmed.

Best Price Guarantee : Online bookings often come with the best price guarantee, ensuring that you get the best possible deal. You'll be able to compare prices, packages, and tour options and select the one that suits your needs and budget.

Flexible Booking Options : Online booking allows you to choose the date and time of your tour, making it easy to fit your schedule. Moreover, you can also cancel or reschedule your tour, provided you do it within the tour operator's policy guidelines.

Expert Guides : We offer tours with expert guides who can provide you with in-depth knowledge about the history and behind-the-scenes stories of the Downton Abbey filming locations. This way, you'll gain a deeper appreciation of the cultural and historical significance of the site.

Downton Abbey Tickets Guide

A visit to Downton Abbey is a must-do activity during your time in London. From the grandeur of Highclere Castle to the quaint village of Bampton, you'll be transported to a world of aristocratic elegance and scandalous intrigue. So why not book your tickets today and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Downton Abbey?

Your Downton Abbey Ticket Options

Experience the ultimate Downton Abbey adventure with our guided day tour of Highclere Castle, Oxford, and Bampton from London. This tour offers an exclusive opportunity to explore the stunning locations that brought the show's iconic scenes to life. Our expert guide will provide insider knowledge and fascinating stories about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. This tour is a must-do for any true Downton Abbey fan and offers an unforgettable experience of the show's world. Book now to secure your spot on this exclusive tour!

Recommended Experiences

This tour includes a guided walking tour of Oxford, Bampton, and Highclere Castle. Your expert English-speaking guide will provide insider knowledge and fascinating stories about the show's world. You'll also receive return transfers to London for your convenience. As a special bonus, you'll also receive a copy of Lady Carnarvon's book, offering further insights into the fascinating history of Highclere Castle.

Plan Your Visit to Downton Abbey

What are Downton Abbey opening hours?

Downton Abbey is open for tours from 10 AM - 4 PM daily, with the last entry at 3 PM.

What is the best time to go on a Downton Abbey tour?

To avoid large crowds and have a more personalized experience, it's recommended to visit Downton Abbey during weekdays. Visiting in the morning is also a great way to beat the crowds and enjoy the attractions at your own pace.

How long is a Downton Abbey tour?

A typical tour of Downton Abbey lasts around 90 minutes, but the duration may vary depending on the size of the group and the time of day.

Where is Downton Abbey located?

Downton Abbey is located at Highclere Castle, Newbury, West Berkshire, RG20 9RN, United Kingdom.

Can I take public transportation to Downton Abbey?

The nearest train station to Downton Abbey is Newbury Station, and from there, it's a 20-minute taxi ride to the castle. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Newbury and then catch a taxi from there.

Are Downton Abbey tours wheelchair accessible?

Downton Abbey is partially accessible for wheelchair users, with ramps and lifts available in certain areas of the castle. However, due to the historic nature of the building, some areas may not be accessible.

Are outside food and drinks permitted on a Downton Abbey tour?

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed during the tour. However, there is a café on site where you can purchase refreshments.

Is parking available at Downton Abbey?

Yes, there is free parking available on site for visitors. However, due to the popularity of the attraction, parking spaces may be limited during peak periods.

Downton Abbey Highlights

Historic Estate

Downton Abbey is a grand estate located in Yorkshire, England, that dates back to the early 19th century. The mansion and grounds are known for their stunning beauty and historical significance. The estate has served as a filming location for the hit television series "Downton Abbey," which chronicles the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the early 20th century.

Period Costumes and Decor

One of the hallmarks of "Downton Abbey" is its attention to detail in recreating the period setting. The show's costumes and sets are meticulously crafted to transport viewers back in time to the Edwardian era and the Roaring Twenties. Visitors to the estate can admire the beautiful period decor, including antique furniture, paintings, and tapestries. They can also view some of the costumes worn by the actors in the series.

Garden and Grounds

Downton Abbey's gardens and grounds are a beautiful sight to behold. The estate's extensive gardens feature manicured lawns, flower beds, and fountains. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside. The estate also has a working farm, where visitors can see farm animals and learn about traditional farming methods.

Interactive Exhibits

Visitors to Downton Abbey can explore interactive exhibits that bring the history of the estate to life. One exhibit focuses on the life and work of the servants who kept the estate running, while another highlights the changing social and political landscape of the early 20th century. Visitors can also see a replica of the dining room where the Crawley family enjoyed their meals and learn about the etiquette and customs of the time.

Special Events

Throughout the year, Downton Abbey hosts special events that allow visitors to experience the estate in a unique way. These include garden parties, concerts, and vintage car rallies. Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the estate and hear firsthand accounts of the history and stories of the people who lived and worked there.

Downton Abbey FAQs

On the Downton Abbey tour, you'll get to see the main hall, the dining room, the library, the bedrooms, and other key locations that were featured in the popular television series. You'll also have access to behind-the-scenes areas and learn interesting facts about the show's production.

The Downton Abbey tour typically lasts around 90 mins, though this may vary depending on the size of the group and the time of day.

Photography is generally allowed on the Downton Abbey tour, but some areas may be off-limits for security or copyright reasons. Visitors are advised to check with the tour guide before taking any photographs.

There are no age restrictions for the Downton Abbey tour, but children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Yes, there is a gift shop located on site where you can purchase souvenirs and merchandise related to the show.

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Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle) day tours from London 2024

3 guided day tours to highclere castle & downton film locations from london in 2024.

About Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

Visiting Highclere Castle is like walking into history. It is a magnificent example of an English Castle but is now most famous as Downton Abbey in the popular TV series and recent hugely popular film of the same name.

A Highclere Castle tour is now a very popular and fascinating experience for fans of history and of the Downton Abbey TV series and film.

Highclere Castle can be combined easily in a day trip with the beautiful area of the Cotswolds or Oxford, and Tour 1 - Oxford, Bampton & Highclere Castle does just this. A fantastic day out, in addition to entrance to Highclere Castle you have time to explore beautiful Bampton in the Cotswolds, ('Downton Village') and charming Oxford.

An alternative tour to the ones visiting Highclere Castle is Tour 2 - Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village and the Cotswolds which visits 'Downton Abbey Village' (Bampton) and in addition a stop at the gorgeous Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds and the much loved Blenheim Palace.

For a more intimate experience Tour 3 - Downton Abbey Filming locations, Cotswolds and Highclere Castle Small Group offers you the chance to visit top filming locations throughout the Cotswolds and Hampshire departing from both London and Oxford, with no more than 17 other people.

Tours & tickets   Oxford, Bampton & Highclere tour   Blenheim Palace & Cotswolds tour   Small group film locations & Castle tour   Highclere Castle tour dates - at a glance  

Highclere Castle opening, tours and tickets 2024

Downton Abbey opening dates in 2024

Despite its popularity Highclere Castle has a limited visitor season. Some of the 2024 dates are live on this page but others are not released yet (see our table Downton Abbey/Highclere Castle tour dates 2024 for the available dates.).

Highclere Castle day tours from London are few and far between, normally opening dates are restricted between July and early September and national holidays at Easter and in May.

If you want to visit Highclere on a day tour from London it is not a matter of picking and choosing your tour, it's just grab the tour when available for your dates before it sells out!

If you are planning for 2024, then based on this year and previous years they are likely to be a spring opening around Easter, the two national holidays in May, and most days (except Fridays and Saturdays) from the second week of July through to early September. In addition, there are occasional special event days throughout the year. We update our page as and when dates are released and highlight these special events once we have details. We include the tour that does not visit Highclere for those visitors that are in the UK when Highclere is not open but want the best 'Downton' experience available.

It is not possible to view Highclere Castle when closed, even for a drop by photo opportunity. Highclere Castle is far from public roads out of view. There are local public footpaths where you can glimpse Highclere Castle from far off.

Highclere Castle by public transport

There is no public transport available to Highclere Castle. A bus service from Newbury runs 3 or 4 times a day except Sundays to the small village of Burghclere about a 30 minute walk from Highclere Castle, but timings are not good for a visit.

From London you can take trains to Newbury from Paddington Station from where it is about a 20 minute taxi ride to Highclere.

Tour 1: Oxford, Bampton and Highclere Castle Tour

DOWNTON ABBEY - HIGHCLERE CASTLE - OXFORD, BAMPTON & HIGHCLERE TOUR

Tour of 'Downton Abbey' (Highclere Castle) with Oxford and Bampton

Adult from £189pp

• Visit to Highclere Castle • Copy of Lady Carnarvon's book • Visit to 'Downton Village' (Bampton) • Walking tour of Oxford

Oxford, Bampton & Highclere Castle tour dates 2024

See table below for Downton Abbey/Highclere Castle tour dates 2024

Tour highlights

Visit Highclere Castle and grounds made famous by the Downton Abbey TV series

Visit Bampton Village used for outdoor scenes from the TV series Downton Abbey

Walking tour of Oxford, home to one of the world's greatest Universities, visit the historic colleges

Copy of Lady Carnarvon's autobiography.

Tour itinerary

First stop after around 75 minutes is Oxford, the City of Dreaming Spires, boasts one of the world's greatest - and oldest - universities, as well as some of the finest architecture in Europe.

The colleges themselves, which make up the university, are amongst the architectural highlights, their ivy-clad stone walls protecting beautiful chapels, halls and libraries.

A walking tour of Oxford with our guide is included before some free time to grab a bite to eat. Why not try out a pub lunch at one of the many famous inns of Oxford?

Bampton (Downton Village)

Next stop is the beautiful village of Bampton in Oxfordshire Bampton; the setting for exterior village scenes in the ITV series of Downton Abbey.

Visit the church - in real life, St Mary's Church, which played host to a number of memorable weddings funerals and christenings in Downton Abbey.

See Matthew Crawley's mother's house, the hospital, (series two) and current people's homes, which are transformed into the Post Office as well as various pubs.

In the "hospital", which is the public library, there is also the Vesey room where the Bampton Archive is housed and various local exhibitions are set out. Here you can purchase some Downton mementos of your time in Bampton, such as beautiful cards, prints and mugs (done by a local artist) as well as books of the filming.

Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)

To finish your day you will travel to Highclere, and discover an inspiring Highclere Castle set amidst lawns and gardens of tranquility and beauty. It has been home to the Carnarvon Family since 1679 and the present Earl and Countess still live here.

Long-standing friend of the Carnarvon family, Julian Fellowes had Highclere Castle in mind as he wrote Downton Abbey. He often commented he wanted a house which spectacularly testified to the confidence and soaring optimism of the Edwardian period.

Visitors follow a route through the castle though rooms with guides in each State room happy to share anecdotes and information.

As well as the castle, you will have time to explore the extensive grounds, designed by Lancelot “Capability” Brown who also designed the grounds of Blenheim Palace. Tea and cake can be taken at one of the tea rooms once you have finished.

A copy of Lady Carnarvon's autobiography will also be given to every customer on the tour. It makes for fascinating reading and is a unique souvenir to remember the day!

Prices and tour reservations

Prices are displayed on the banner link above. Major credit and debit cards are accepted. You will be emailed a confirmation with a booking reference after reservation. The booking reference and the name of the person ordering is all that you need to quote when joining the tour, there are no paper tickets.

Tour 2 - Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds

Note: This tour does not visit Highclere Castle but looks at the surrounding villages which were featured in the show plus Blenheim Palace.

This tour covers the resplendent English county of Oxfordshire, an area renowned for its rolling green hills, spectacular stately homes and quintessentially English market towns.

Enjoy the quaint village of Bampton, made famous by the Downton Abbey series, stop at Bourton-on-the-Water ('Venice of the Cotswolds') and enjoy an afternoon tea in a riverside cafe' if you like.

Finally finish at the beautiful Blenheim Palace , where Sir Winston Churchill was born and raised. (Entrance included if paying the higher ticket price - shown below.) Peruse around the stunning State Rooms, brimming with priceless works of art and magnificent tapestries. Enjoy the magnificent gardens set in over 754 hectares of land, with an exquisite water garden.

Entrance to Blenheim Palace (with ticket including entrances, shown below)

Visit charming Cotswold village of Bourton-on-the-Water

Visit the village of Bampton; a film setting for the popular Downton Abbey TV series.

Luxury air conditioned purpose built touring bus

Professional, expert standard, friendly tour guide

COTSWOLDS, BLENHEIM PALACE + DOWNTON ABBEY VILLAGE TOUR FROM LONDON

Blenheim Palace, Cotswolds and Downton Abbey film locations guided day tour from London

• Adult without Blenheim Palace entry from £72 • Adult with Blenheim Palace entry from £100

• Optional entry to Blenheim Palace & Gardens • Walking tour of Bampton • Discover two traditional villages • See filming locations of 'Downton Abbey' • Professional guide • Luxury air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi

Tour 3: Downton Abbey filming locations and visit to Highclere Castle (Small Group)

DOWNTON ABBEY - HIGHCLERE CASTLE - YEW TREE FARM, BAMPTON & HIGHCLERE TOUR SMALL GROUP

Downton Abbey filming locations and visit to Highclere Castle (Small Group) - International Friends

Adult from £199pp

• Visit to Highclere Castle • Visit to Yew Tree Farm • Visit to 'Downton Village' (Bampton) • Max 18 people • Explore hidden filming sites that the big coaches cannot get to in the stunning Cotswolds

Tour 3 - Small group Downton Abbey film locations & Highclere Castle

See table below for Downton Abbey/Highclere Castle tour dates

Visit to Yew Tree Farm (Cogges Manor Farm) with private exclusive tour of the house

Visit to Downton Village (Bampton) and Downton Church with entry to the building used for Downton Cottage Hospital

Entry and tour of Highclere Castle and Gardens

Services of a friendly Downton Abbey specialist guide throughout the day on a luxury touring coach.

Yew Tree Farm

Our first stop is a visit to Yew Tree Farm (Cogges Manor Farm), home of the tenant farmer Mr Drewe. The historic farmyard and 13th century manor house sits on the banks of the River Windrush and first appeared in Downton Abbey in series 4.

After a tea/coffee break in the delightfully refurbished rustic cow shed cafe at Cogges, we take a tour and learn of the relationship between the tenant farmers and landowners, showing the sites used in filming.

After the tour we drive to Downton Village, real name Bampton, a beautiful village in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds. The village of Bampton has been used extensively in all series of Downton Abbey for Downton Village filming.

You will see Downton Cottage Hospital and doctor's surgery (in real life the library), St Mary’s Church (where many wedding and funeral scenes were shot), Churchgate House for exterior shots for the Crawley family home, and the street used for shops, the Post Office and the Grantham Arms.

Highclere Castle

In the early afternoon we make our way to the Grantham family home, Highclere Castle. On arrival at Highclere Castle there will be time to enjoy the beautiful gardens. There will be time for lunch, or a snack in the Tearooms before entering Highclere Castle for an afternoon visit.

DOWNTON ABBEY TOUR DATES 2024 + DOWNTON LOCATIONS TOUR WITH BLENHEIM PALACE

Important: these are the tour dates only and do not represent ticket availability.

Downton Abbey Filming Locations and Highclere Castle - 1 day tour

A day trip to sites from Downton Abbey tv series, with departures from central London. This day trip includes entry to Highclere Castle plus a visit to Downton Village and Downton Church. Visit the filming sites associated with Downton Abbey in the morning, and enjoy an afternoon in Highclere Castle, the Grantham family home in the series. Depart London and drive away from the city to the delightful Oxfordshire Cotswolds to see key filming sites of Downton Abbey. Call 1-800-221-2474   9AM - 5PM ETor Please Email Us For Information We depart London to begin our Downton Abbey day out! Firstly, we'll drive through the delightful and charming Cotswolds which double up for Yorkshire in the Downton Abbey TV series and recent Downton Abbey film. Here we can explore honey coloured villages and gentle rolling hills as we head over to the centuries-old farm at Cogges. We can enjoy a stroll though the farmyard and fields and say hello to the friendly animals that live here. We will learn of the role Cogges played in Downton Abbey as Yew Tree Farm, home of the Drewe family and the place where Lady Edith's daughter Marigold was raised. Take your seats in the Manor House for a specially recorded documentary centred on a day's filming here then relax over a coffee in the old milking barn.

Next stop on our day trip is Bampton village, which any Downton Abbey fan will immediately recognise as Downton Village. Here we can explore the church and graveyard at St Mary's where some of the characters have their final resting place. Inside the church we can see where many of them married, and at least one was jilted. Outside is Mrs Crawley's house and the village green. The Cottage Hospital lies next door and we can see the houses that were transformed into the Grantham Arms pub, the Dog and Duck, Mrs Patmore’s Bed and Breakfast and the village post office. Souvenir hunters will love the little gift shop here where Downton memorabilia can be purchased.

Next stop is our visit to Downton Abbey itself! The magnificent house was designed by Charles Barry for the Earls of Carnarvon and Highclere Castle is still the home of the 8th Earl today. But for many of us this beautiful house and the landscaped gardens by "Capability" Brown will always be the house and grounds of Downton Abbey, both in the TV series and the hit film. 

See the dining room, scene of some of Violet's most wonderful comments, Lord Robert's library, the sitting room, the family bedrooms and walk down the grand staircase to the salon. Check out the Tutenkhamun and Egyptology exhibition in the basement and learn of the 5th Earl's expeditions to the Valley of the Kings. Explore the landscaped grounds and gardens and enjoy lunch or afternoon tea in the restaurant. Don't forget to visit some of the filming locations outside on other parts of estate. After your visit to Downton Abbey, our day trip ends and we return to London, after a wonderful day of discovery for any Downton Abbey fan!

The Carnarvon family has lived at Highclere since 1679. Major rebuilding work was carried out in the 18th and 19th centuries, and in 1838, the 3rd Earl of Carnarvon brought in Sir Charles Barry to transform his home into a truly stunning mansion. During the First World War the Castle was transformed into a hospital, returning to a private home in 1922.

To this day the current (8th) Earl and Countess of Carnarvon live partly in the Castle and partly nearby, but remain closely involved in the Castle's day to day life and future.

On entry to Highclere Castle visitors follow a route through the Castle through with guides in each State room. The State rooms include the Saloon, Library, Dining room, Music room, Drawing room and Smoking room. Visitors can then go up the Red Stairs to view some of the Bedrooms and the Gallery, before walking down the oak staircase back to the saloon in the heart of the house.

There are no planned departures in June

Important note about cancellations - Due to the very limited availability of Highclere Castle tickets all bookings for this day trip are 100% non refundable. Departure point – London

07:15am         Outside The British Museum main entrance, Great Russell Street Nearest tube stations are Holborn or Tottenham Court Road  07:30am         Outside Hard Rock Hotel, Marble Arch.  Nearest tube station is Marble Arch 07:45am         Outside Holiday Inn Kensington Forum, 97 Cromwell Road (wait on Cromwell road by bus stop, not outside hotel entrance). Nearest tube station is Gloucester Road 

Return to London The coach will drop off at Victoria coach and train station, which has excellent links for forward travel throughout London and beyond. We usually arrive back in central London by 6.30pm, depending on traffic conditions.

Disclaimer: These Downton Abbey day trips and tours are not endorsed, sanctioned or in any other way supported, directly or indirectly, by Carnival Films, NBC Universal or Julian Fellowes and his representatives.

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Highclere Castle – Downton Tour

Highclere Castle is known to audiences around the world as the home of Lord and Lady Grantham on the popular series Downton Abbey. Join us on this private day Highclere Castle -Downton Tour.

As eagle-eyed viewers will have noticed Highclere is more a stately home than a castle. In real life it’s is the residence of the Carnarvon family. They who are fortunate enough to live in exactly the same Staterooms that we see weekly in Downton Abbey.  The house itself dates back centuries and is built and decorated in the Renaissance style and been in many films.  As with so many other of our grandest houses, its gardens were modelled by Capability Brown. One could easily spend all day exploring its corners.

If the name Carnarvon sounds familiar, then that may well be because it was an earlier Lord Carnarvon who with his architectural colleague Howard Carter discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922.  As such Highclere is also home to a fascinating museum on Egyptology. Illustrating the discovery of the lost tomb of the fabled boy king. The museum also exhibits some relics brought back from Egypt itself.

Of course if you love Downton Abbey and find the tour is sold out or that Highclere Castle is closed, then why not try our Downton Abbey London Walking Tour . Even though the show is set in Yorkshire, a surprising amount of famous and beautiful locations are in London and this walk will take you to them!

How to book the Highclere Castle – Downton Tour

For more information or to make a booking, please email [email protected] . Please note that this tour really has to be booked many months before your holiday. Highclere itself is always sold out on the day.

Departure Time:7.30am City Location: Highclere, Hampshire Duration of Tour: 6 hours (Approximate times as all tours are bespoke)

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1 thought on “highclere castle – downton tour”.

I saw a documentary on TV about Highclere castle and it was fascinating. I’m a Downton Abbey fan and it would be so neat to visit the actual castle one day. Thanks for the great post.

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Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London

• Full-day Downton Abbey filming locations tour including Highclere Castle
• Leave London and travel to Oxfordshire to see a collection of sites used in the popular TV drama
• Hear anecdotes and gossip about the Downton Abbey series and characters such as Lady Mary
• Visit a farm near Cogges and explore the Cotswolds village of Bampton that was used as Downton village
• Explore the gardens and state rooms of Highclere Castle, seeing bedrooms, the smoking room and more
• Small-group tour with a maximum of 18 people ensures personalized attention at all times

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Transport by air-conditioned minivan
• Professional guide
• Entrance fee to Highclere Castle
• Entrance fee to Cogges Manor Farm
• Food and drinks
• Gratuities (optional)

Departure & Return

Marble Arch, London

Returns to Victoria Train Station at approximately 7pm

What To Expect

Depart from a central London location in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan and listen to entertaining anecdotes surrounding the hit series from your guide. Stay entertained by Downtown Abbey tales and trivia as you travel, and admire the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside during the journey. Stop first at a traditional farm nestled amid the rolling hills of Cogges and refresh with a hot drink in the farm's rustic caf e (own expense). Discover a scattering of filming locations before returning to the vehicle to travel onward to Bampton, the gorgeous village used extensively as Downtown village. See recognizable sights like the village church and the Crawley family home as you enjoy a guided walking tour of Bampton, and then continue to Highclere Castle, arguably the most iconic Downtown Abbey filming location. Gasp as you approach the lavish neoclassical façade of the residence and then embark on a leisurely stroll of the castle's sublime gardens and grounds. After exploring enclaves like the Secret Garden and the Wood of Goodwill, revitalize with a snack in the onsite tea rooms and then discover the opulence of Highclere Castle's interior during a guided tour.  See rooms graced by classic characters like Lady Sybil and hear tales of the castle's rich history as you wander. Return to your comfortable coach after thorough exploration of the castle and relax during the journey back to central London, where the tour concludes.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Please note: Once the booking is submitted all sales are final, non-changeable, non-transferable and incur 100% cancellation penalties

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

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