The ‘Private Downton Abbey Day Tour’ is an immersive experience that transports fans of the beloved series into the world they’ve come to love. With a visit to the quaint village of Bampton and a guided tour of Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey, this tour offers exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes secrets. Complemented by a traditional pub lunch, this nine-hour journey provides a unique opportunity to explore the grandeur and charm that made the show an international sensation.
Key Points
- Private tour of the Downton Abbey filming locations, including the picturesque village of Bampton and the iconic Highclere Castle.
- Includes a traditional pub lunch at The Trout at Tadpole Bridge, offering classic British cuisine in a scenic riverside setting.
- Guided tours provide behind-the-scenes insights and anecdotes about the Downton Abbey TV series during the visit to Highclere Castle.
- Opportunity to explore the interiors and grounds of Highclere Castle, the real-life setting for the Downton Abbey TV show.
- Tour rated 5/5 by customers, highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging guide as well as the immersive Downton Abbey experience.
Tour Overview
The Private Downton Abbey Day Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the iconic locations featured in the beloved television series. Priced from $685.47 per person, this 9-hour tour includes pickup from central London and a visit to the picturesque village of Bampton, where many exterior scenes were filmed.
Guests will also enjoy a traditional pub lunch and a 2.5-hour guided tour of the grand Highclere Castle, the filming location for Downton Abbey.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides a seamless and flexible Downton Abbey experience.
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Bampton: Exploring the Village From Downton Abbey
One of the tour’s first stops is the picturesque village of Bampton, where visitors can explore the charming settings that doubled as the fictional Downton village in the beloved TV series.
During the 1-hour visit, guests enjoy guided tours and photo stops at iconic locations like the Bampton Library, St Mary’s Church, and the Cottage Hospital.
Guided tours and photo stops at iconic Downton Abbey filming locations like the Bampton Library, St Mary’s Church, and the Cottage Hospital.
There’s also free time to wander the quaint streets and browse the local shops.
The combination of guided exploration and independent discovery allows fans to enjoy the Downton Abbey experience and appreciate the village’s enduring cinematic appeal.
Pub Lunch at The Trout at Tadpole Bridge
After exploring the charming village of Bampton, the tour takes guests on a 1-hour stop at The Trout at Tadpole Bridge for a traditional pub lunch. The Trout offers a cozy and picturesque setting along the River Thames, perfect for a midday break. The menu features classic British pub fare, allowing guests to savor local cuisine in an authentic setting. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all.
| Dish | Description | Price |
| — | — | — |
| Fish & Chips | Crispy battered white fish served with chips and mushy peas | £12.95 |
| Bangers & Mash | Grilled sausages with creamy mashed potatoes and onion gravy | £11.50 |
| Vegetarian Quiche | Homemade quiche with a side salad | £9.95 |
Highclere Castle: The Real Downton Abbey
Highclere Castle stands as the iconic setting for the acclaimed television series "Downton Abbey".
On this tour, visitors enjoy a 2.5-hour visit to explore the grandeur of this historic estate, including:
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Guided tours to learn behind-the-scenes secrets and anecdotes from the filming process
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Free time to wander the lavish interiors and exquisite grounds
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Opportunities to shop for souvenirs and memorabilia
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Discovering the castle’s rich history dating back to the 11th century
With its ornate architecture and picturesque landscapes, Highclere Castle offers a truly immersive Downton Abbey experience for fans and history enthusiasts alike.
More Great Tours NearbyBehind-the-Scenes Secrets and Anecdotes
As visitors explore the lavish interiors and exquisite grounds of Highclere Castle, the expert guide regales them with behind-the-scenes secrets and anecdotes from the filming of the acclaimed television series "Downton Abbey".
Guests learn that the castle’s staff were recruited as extras, and the production team faced challenges transporting equipment and managing crowds during filming.
The guide also shares humorous stories, like how the actors had to adjust to the castle’s quirks, such as uneven floors and tricky staircases.
The actors had to adapt to Highclere Castle’s quirks, like uneven floors and challenging staircases, during Downton Abbey filming.
These insider tales add a delightful layer of immersion to the Downton Abbey experience.
The Grandeur of Highclere Castle and Its Grounds
The magnificent Highclere Castle impresses visitors with its stunning Jacobethan architecture and 1,000 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds.
Visitors can:
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Explore the ornate interiors, including the grand salons and the iconic library used in Downton Abbey
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Stroll through the expansive formal gardens, featuring manicured hedges, tranquil ponds, and a vast network of walking trails
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Discover the Castle’s fascinating history, dating back to the 11th century
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Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Berkshire countryside from the Castle’s elevated position
Highclere Castle’s grandeur transports guests back in time, providing an immersive Downton Abbey experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes entry to Highclere Castle, allowing visitors to explore the iconic filming locations from Downton Abbey. Plus, the tour provides a traditional pub lunch, though this is not included in the tour price. Dietary requirements can be accommodated. The inclusions and exclusions are summarized in the table below:
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
| — | — |
| Entry to Highclere Castle | Pub Lunch (can be added as an additional cost) |
| Expert guide with knowledge of the series | Gratuities |
| Behind-the-scenes secrets and anecdotes | – |
| Exploration of Highclere Castle and grounds | – |
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers have highly praised this Private Downton Abbey Day Tour, evidenced by its impressive 5/5 rating based on a single review.
Highlighting the tour’s key strengths, customers praised:
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The guide’s extensive knowledge and engaging personality
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The opportunity to explore iconic Downton Abbey locations
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Learning behind-the-scenes secrets about the filming process
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The grandeur and access to Highclere Castle
With a private tour and convenient pickup from London, this Downton Abbey experience offers an immersive glimpse into the beloved TV series and its historical setting.
Things To Know
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on this tour. The tour includes a traditional pub lunch, but you’ll need to purchase that separately. Any special dietary requirements can be accommodated.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Guests of all ages are welcome to participate and enjoy the Downton Abbey experience. Children are encouraged to join, as the tour offers engaging activities and sights suitable for all.
What Should I Wear for the Best Experience?
For the best experience, dress comfortably in casual, weather-appropriate clothing. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be exploring historical sites. Bringing layers is advised to account for potential changes in temperature throughout the day.
Can I Take Photos Inside Highclere Castle?
Yes, visitors can take photos inside Highclere Castle, but flash photography is not allowed. Guided tours provide opportunities to capture the stunning interiors and exteriors of the historic castle featured in the popular TV series Downton Abbey.
Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?
There’s no specific discount for booking the tour in advance. However, the tour offers a reserve now & pay later option, which can provide flexibility in planning. Early booking is recommended to secure availability for this popular tour.
Sum Up
The Private Downton Abbey Day Tour offers an immersive journey into the world of the beloved series. Visitors can explore the charming village of Bampton, indulge in a traditional pub lunch, and enjoy an exclusive guided tour of Highclere Castle, revealing the behind-the-scenes secrets and grandeur of the real-life Downton Abbey. With its comprehensive inclusions and positive customer feedback, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for Downton Abbey fans.
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