London: Downton Abbey, Cotswolds, and Highclere Castle Tour

Set off from London on a scenic day trip in a small group and see some of the highlights of the Cotswolds. Visit filming locations from 'Downton Abbey' including Highclere Castle itself on this guided tour.

Head to the Cotswolds countryside to see filming sites of Downton Abbey. The first stop is Cogges Manor Farm, located on the banks of the River Windrush. Visit the kitchens, Mr. Drewe’s living room, the farmyard, and watch a special video about the farm's role in the popular series as Yew Tree Farm.

After a short break, continue to the delightful village of Shilton, famous for its shallow ford and stone bridges; see the spot where Bates worked in the 'Red Lion' after being forced to leave Downton Abbey.

Head to Bampton to see St Mary's Church, the scene of many weddings and a funeral or two. During your guided walk, spot familiar sites such as the cottage hospital (Bampton Library, entry included), Mrs. Crawley's house, the village green, the post office, Mrs. Patmore’s bed and breakfast and The Grantham Arms pub.

Travel south to the chalk down land of Hampshire, home to magnificent Highclere Castle, known to many as Lord Grantham's family seat, Downton Abbey. Discover familiar locations both inside the castle and out.

See where O’Brien tripped Bates, where Kemal Pamuk’s body was moved and the dining room where delicious dialogue was served with decadent food. Visit Robert Crawley’s library, the lush bedrooms and descend the grand staircase.

Enjoy lunch in one of the restaurants before heading to the beautiful grounds. Visit the basement to see the Egyptology Exhibition, the result of excavations in Egypt's 'Valley of the Kings'.

Spend around three hours exploring Highclere Castle and its gardens. After departing Highclere Castle, we will quickly visit Burghclere to see Portal Hall, the location for Downton Village School, before the relaxing journey back to London.

Highclere Castle Events:

Living with a Film Crew, 8th-14th May 2026. Includes talks on Highclere and other film locations, guided tour of the Castle State Rooms, the Galleried Bedrooms, the Egyptian Exhibition and a signed copy of Lady Carnarvon’s book ‘A Year at Highclere’.

Teas, Tours and Timeless Tales, every Tuesday June 2026. Includes a guided tour of the Castle, time in the Egyptian Exhibition, Grounds and Gardens, complimentary refreshments and a signed copy of Lady Carnarvon's book "Seasons at Highclere". Also includes admissions to Cogges Manor Farm and Bampton Library.

Magic of the Movies, 12th-13th September 2026. Includes entrance to the Castle, Gardens & Egyptian Exhibition. Also includes optional highlights such as Costume Exhibition, Jazz Band, Dancing with Brooks & Baker, Vintage Car Exhibition, the chance to take part in Highclere's “Magic of the Movies” film clip and more.

Please note: Highclere Castle permits limited visitor numbers on event dates to ensure an intimate experience. A £60 per person supplement applies to all tours on these dates.

Not suitable for

• People with mobility impairments
• Wheelchair users

What to bring

• Comfortable shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing

Know before you go

• Depending on the castle entry time, the itinerary may be reversed.
• Large bags and backpacks are not permitted in the Castle grounds. A small storage area is available at the Visitors Reception. Picnics are not permitted within the gardens.
• Photography and videography is not permitted inside the Castle but can be used on the Castle grounds and lawns for personal use only.
• Pushchairs are not permitted inside of the Castle but can be used around the Castle grounds and lawns.