Downton Abbey Tours

Written by Viator, February 2013

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Cultural Experience, Pop Culture, Castle, Monument - Historical

Britain’s favorite period drama, Downton Abbey has been taking the world by storm of late, so get your top hats and teacups at the ready, and prepare to get a taste of Edwardian-era England. The real-life Downton Abbey is set in the magnificent 1,000-acre estate of Highclere Castle, a 19th century historic castle in Hampshire and, thanks to its new-found fame, a popular day trip from London.

The present day mansion, fashioned around an original Georgian structure, was designed by Sir Charles Barry and features the spectacular timeless façade that has become so synonymous with the TV show. Belonging to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon since 1679, the private estate is now opening its doors in-between filming, offering fans the chance to explore the rooms as seen on screen and wander the exquisite 18th century parklands, designed by legendary landscaper Capability Brown. Fans can perch on a chaise lounge in the grand salon where the Dowager Countess regales the ladies of the house over cups of tea; browse the 5,650-book library where the Earl of Grantham conducts business with his trusty Labrador Isis at his heels; walk the grand stairwell where Lady Mary and Matthew first kissed; or marvel the original Van Dyck painting of King Charles I in the regal dining room where dinnertime chatter has revealed more than a few of the show’s explosive storylines.

Another popular spot for fans is the historic Oxfordshire village of Bampton, or better known as its on-screen alter-ego, the fictional Downton Village. One of England’s oldest villages, dating back to the Iron Age, Bampton’s rows of 12th century cottages and Norman style St. Mary's Church now draw a steady stream of tourists thanks to their Downton fame. Just make sure you get back to London in time for Afternoon Tea - the most important tradition of the British aristocracy.

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Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: Downton Abbey Day Trip with Christ Church College Tour in Oxford

This is one great trip especially when you have David as your guide and Martin as your driver. David is extremely knowledgeable and full of energy. Martin has a terrific sense of humour. Oxford was so interesting and the Christ Church dining hall was magnificent. Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) is all that I hoped it would be - majestic, beautifully located, welcoming. The room guides were pleasnant and knew their stuff. All in all a great day out.

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Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: Downton Abbey Day Trip with Christ Church College Tour in Oxford

Wonderful tour and thoroughly enjoyed David's insight and commentary!

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Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: Downton Abbey Day Trip with Christ Church College Tour in Oxford

Great tour, well paced for seeing things as well as exploring on your own.

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