8 hours
If you are crazy for Downton Abbey, then a visit to Highclere Castle is a must!
The estate at Highclere Castle is simply magnificent with superbly designed landscaped grounds by the 18th century gardener Lancelot "Capability" Brown. Precisely why those opening shots of Downton Abbey are so impressive. There is nothing quite like seeing the real film locations of your favourite TV show.
The majestic Victorian Castle is the real-life home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. There are between 250 and 300 rooms in the Castle and during your visit you will be able to explore the main state rooms. Get the chance to discover the deep cellars and old staff quarters where you will find the Egyptian Exhibition, celebrating the 5th Earl of Carnarvon's discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun.
After departing London in the morning, you will head towards Highclere Castle, in the south west of England. Upon arrival at Highclere Castle, there will be time to enjoy the beautiful gardens; The Monks Garden, White Border, the Secret Garden and Wood of Goodwill, before you eventually enter the castle itself. There will be time for a visit to the tearooms where you can enjoy a light lunch, snack or afternoon tea made in the castle kitchen, with a total of 3 - 4 hours being spent at the castle.
Highclere Castle has been the seat of the Carnarvon family since 1679, undergoing major rebuilding work over the centuries with the 3rd Earl of Carnarvon eventually hiring Sir Charles Barry to transform the home into the truly stunning mansion seen today.
On entry to Highclere Castle, visitors will follow a route to view the state rooms, which 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, the heart of the house. Many of the rooms from the Downton Abbey series can be seen on the tour, including the parlor where the Crawleys take tea, the bedrooms and of course the dining room (the scene of many a family argument).
Duration: 7 - 8 hours
Number of passengers: 1 – 8
Collection & drop off point: Private & direct pickup from your London location and drop-off within central London (zone 1-2)
Admission to Highclere Castle is not included
Insight to Highclere Castle
Ideal for fans of the hit British drama, 'Downtown Abbey'
Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding Highclere Castle