Downton Abbey Tours from London

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.

Highclere Castle, located in Highclere Park, Newbury, is the central filming location for Downton Abbey. This Victorian-era mansion, home to the Earl of Carnarvon since 1679, boasts Gothic and Italianate architecture. The Downton Abbey tour offers exclusive access to private areas like the Monk's Garden and unique experiences, including cooking classes and skeet shooting lessons.

Just 20 miles west of Oxford, the historic Bampton village dates back to the Anglo-Saxon period and is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. Bampton's charming streets and iconic buildings, like the village church and Crawley House, were extensively used for filming the series. You can explore the Downton Abbey Mile, enjoy Morris Dancing traditions, and visit attractions like the West Ox Arts Gallery and Wood Brothers Distillery.

The Cotswolds, a region in south-central England, is renowned for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and historic sites. Spanning parts of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire, it boasts a rich history from the Iron Age to the medieval wool industry. Known for its charming stone-built houses, the area was a primary filming location for Downton Abbey. You can explore villages like Bampton and Chipping Campden, and scenic trails like Cotswold Way.

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. When visiting the estate, you can admire the beautiful period decor, including antique furniture, paintings, and tapestries. You can also view some of the costumes worn by the actors in the series.

Downton Abbey's gardens and grounds are a beautiful sight to behold. The estate's extensive gardens feature manicured lawns, flower beds, and fountains. You 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.

When you go on a Downton Abbey tour, you 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. You 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.

Throughout the year, Downton Abbey hosts special events that allow you 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.