Fans of the beloved Downton Abbey series can now explore the iconic filming locations and the grand Highclere Castle. This full-day tour from London offers a captivating experience, allowing visitors to step into the world of the show. With an expert guide providing insightful commentary, travelers can discover the rich history and stunning architecture of these renowned sites. Whether you’re a devoted fan or simply interested in British history, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you eager to…

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Key Points

The tour includes visits to Downton Abbey filming locations like Yew Tree Farm, Downton village, and Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey.
The full-day trip from London to the filming sites is priced at $232.76 per person and includes admission to the various locations.
The tour duration is one day with a live English-speaking guide who provides historical insights and enhances the overall experience.
Travelers can explore the stunning gardens of Highclere Castle and access the castle’s state rooms, including the Saloon, Library, and Bedrooms.
The tour has received an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 76 reviews, indicating a successful and well-organized experience for visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day trip from London to the Downton Abbey filming locations is priced from $232.76 per person. This includes admission to Highclere Castle, Yew Tree Farm, Downton village, and Downton Church.

The tour lasts one day and features a live English-speaking guide. Cancellation is free up to 14 days in advance for a full refund.

The tour lasts one day with a live English-speaking guide. Cancellation is free up to 14 days in advance for a full refund.

Travelers will depart London in the morning and visit various sites featured in the beloved TV series, including the 13th-century Yew Tree Farm and the charming village of Bampton.

The highlight is exploring Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey, and its stunning gardens.

Looking for more options in London? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

After departing London in the morning, the first stop on the Downton Abbey filming locations tour is Yew Tree Farm (Cogges Manor Farm), the home of the Downton Abbey tenant farmers.

Guests will tour the 13th century manor house featured in the fourth series before it opens to the public.

Next, the tour visits Downton village (Bampton), known for its well-preserved streets where key scenes were filmed, including the local library as Downton Cottage Hospital and St. Mary’s Church as Downton Church.

In the afternoon, the tour arrives at Highclere Castle, the Grantham family home, allowing time to explore the gardens and have lunch.

Highclere Castle Details

Highclere Castle has been the home of the Carnarvon family since 1679.

Originally a mansion, the castle was transformed into its current grand form by the Third Earl of Carnarvon in 1838.

Today, the current Earl and Countess are actively involved in the castle’s daily life and operations, opening it to the public for tours.

The tour includes access to the castle’s state rooms, such as:

Saloon
Library
Dining room
Music room
Drawing room
Smoking room
Bedrooms

During World War I, Highclere Castle served as a hospital, showcasing its rich history and significance.

Transportation and Guide

Round-trip transportation by executive coach is provided for the Downton Abbey filming locations tour. The coach offers a comfortable and convenient way to travel between the various sites. Accompanying the group is an expert, friendly Downton Abbey specialist guide. This guide’s extensive knowledge and entertaining commentary help bring the series’ history and settings to life for travelers.

| Service | Details |

|———|———|

| Transportation | Executive coach |

| Guide | Downton Abbey specialist |

| Reviews | Highlight guide’s expertise and entertainment value |

| Comfort | Some reports of uncomfortable bus seats |

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Customer Feedback and Recommendations

How do travelers rate the overall Downton Abbey filming locations tour? With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 76 reviews, it seems the tour is a hit among visitors:

Highlights include the enjoyable experience at Yew Tree Farm, the stunning castle grounds at Highclere, and the well-organized nature of the trip.
Suggestions for travelers include wearing comfortable shoes and packing weather-appropriate clothing.
However, some have reported discomfort from the bus seats during the journey.

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Exploring Yew Tree Farm

One of the first stops on the Downton Abbey filming locations tour is Yew Tree Farm, the home of the Crawley family’s tenant farmers.

Visitors explore the charming 13th-century manor house featured in the show’s fourth season. The private tour allows guests to wander the historic farmhouse and grounds before it opens to the public.

Highlights include the period furnishings, atmospheric rooms, and beautiful gardens. Travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the lives of the estate’s tenant farmers and the contrast between upstairs and downstairs depicted in the beloved series.

Discovering Downton Village

Next, the tour takes visitors to Downton village, the charming real-life location that stood in for the fictional village in the Downton Abbey series.

Visitors can explore the quaint streets and historic buildings, including:

The local library, which served as the Downton Cottage Hospital
St. Mary’s Church, the filming location for Downton Church
The village’s well-preserved architecture, with honey-colored stone buildings and picturesque gardens
Opportunities to shop and dine at local establishments, immersing oneself in the Downton Abbey experience.

The guided tour provides fascinating insights into the village’s role in the beloved television series.

Visiting Highclere Castle

After exploring the charming Downton village, the tour heads to the crown jewel of the Downton Abbey experience – Highclere Castle.

This ancestral home of the Carnarvon family has been transformed into the iconic Grantham family residence. Guests can wander the grand state rooms that served as the backdrop for the beloved TV series, including the library, dining room, and bedrooms.

During the visit, travelers can also stroll the castle’s magnificent gardens and have lunch at the on-site café.

With its rich history and Downton connections, Highclere Castle offers a quintessential highlight of the Downton Abbey tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Visitors should avoid formal attire and opt for casual, practical outfits that allow for easy movement during the sightseeing activities.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is focused on visiting historic sites and filming locations, and the presence of pets could be disruptive or pose safety concerns. Guests are advised to leave their pets at home for this particular tour.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour spends around 1-2 hours at each location, allowing visitors ample time to explore Yew Tree Farm, Downton village, Downton Church, and Highclere Castle and its grounds. The itinerary is well-paced to provide a comprehensive experience.

Is Photography Allowed Inside Highclere Castle?

Photography is generally allowed inside Highclere Castle, though certain areas or rooms may have restrictions. Visitors should check with tour guides or staff for specific photography guidelines during their visit to the historic castle.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour Stops?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the various tour stops. Highclere Castle has a gift shop where you can find Downton Abbey-themed merchandise, while the villages offer local crafts and items. Check with your guide for other shopping opportunities throughout the day.

The Sum Up

The Downton Abbey Filming Locations & Highclere Castle Tour offers an immersive experience for fans of the beloved series. Visitors can explore iconic sites, marvel at Highclere Castle’s stunning architecture, and explore the rich history of the filming locations. With an expert guide and convenient transportation, this tour ensures an unforgettable journey that captures the essence of the Downton Abbey world.