Highclere Castle
Known to millions of avid viewers around the world as the setting for 'Downton Abbey', Highclere Castle is home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and, unlike its finctional alter ego which is supposedly set in the north of England, set in the Berkshire countryside making it an ideal attraction to visit on an airport transfer tour between Bath and the West of England and the London airports.
Visitors to Highclere can enjoy the house, its fabulous gardens and it's Egyptian Exhibition (the 5th Earl of Carnarvon helped discover Tutenkhamun's tomb) but between still being a living home and filming location public access to the whole estate can be restricted at times so check in advance for opening dates.
Tour Options
Highclere Castle can be visited either on an airport transfer tour (when travelling to or from your Bath or West of England destination and a London airport), on one of Celtic Horizon's suggested tour routes or build it in to a custom tour around your own requirements - contact us for details and prices.
Please note that we only offer journeys and tours that are exclusive to your family or party: we do not operate scheduled shared tour bus services.
Highclere Castle Websites
"Highclere Castle is a stately home located in Hampshire, England, about 70 miles west of London. The castle is set in a large estate and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. It is perhaps best known as the primary filming location for the popular British television series, Downton Abbey.
Highclere Castle was originally built in 1679 for the Bishop of Winchester, but the current castle was largely constructed in the 19th century. It was designed by Sir Charles Barry, who also designed the Houses of Parliament in London. The castle is an excellent example of Victorian architecture and features ornate interior decoration, including fine artworks and furniture.
Visitors to Highclere Castle can take a guided tour of the castle and its gardens, which includes access to many of the rooms seen on Downton Abbey, such as the grand entrance hall, drawing room, library, and dining room. The gardens and parkland surrounding the castle are also open to visitors and feature a variety of beautiful plants and trees, as well as a large lake.
In addition to its role as a filming location, Highclere Castle has a rich history and has been home to the Carnarvon family since the 17th century. The current Earl of Carnarvon and his family still live in the castle today.
Overall, Highclere Castle is a stunning example of Victorian architecture and an important cultural landmark in England. Its role in Downton Abbey has made it a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience the grandeur of the castle and its beautiful surroundings."