If you are a fan of the acclaimed series, this day trip invites you to explore notable filming sites, delve into the historic charm of Oxford, and tour the splendid Highclere Castle.
Tour Overview
We will convene at Victoria Coach Station in London at the scheduled time. From there, our journey begins as we board a bus and embark on a sophisticated excursion through some of England's most celebrated landmarks.
The first destination is the historic city of Oxford, which we will reach after approximately two hours of travel. This city, boasting one of the globe's oldest and most respected universities, offers a guided tour that leads you past magnificent college edifices, where the ivy-covered walls guard centuries of scholarly tradition. Following the tour, you will have the opportunity to wander freely or savor a traditional meal at one of Oxford's renowned pubs.
Continuing our adventure, we will head to the scenic village of Bampton in Oxfordshire, a key location for the outdoor scenes featured in the beloved Downton Abbey series. Here, you will encounter familiar filming sites such as The Church, Matthew Crawley’s family home, and the village hospital, prominently showcased in the second season.
Be sure to visit the Vesey Room located within the public library, where you can explore local exhibits as well as an array of Downton Abbey memorabilia, including beautiful prints, books, and cards available for purchase.
Next, we will journey approximately one hour to the majestic Highclere Castle, the authentic backdrop for Downton Abbey. Crafted by Sir Charles Barry, the same architect behind the Houses of Parliament, this stunning estate has been under the care of the Earls of Carnarvon for centuries. You’ll have the chance to tour the Castle's exquisite public areas, such as the grand main hall, the library, and the sitting rooms showcased in the series. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of the Crawley family.
Following the castle visit, enjoy some free time to stroll through the picturesque parklands, designed by the renowned landscape architect Lancelot "Capability" Brown. Alternatively, indulge in tea and cake within one of the delightful tearooms before we begin our return.
To commemorate this extraordinary day, each guest will receive a copy of one of Lady Carnarvon’s books, which provides intriguing insights into life at Highclere.
Concluding this unforgettable journey, we will make our way back to London, taking around two and a half hours to reach our final stop at Victoria Train Station after approximately 11 hours of exploration.
Important Information
Be aware that the sequence of the itinerary may change and that visits to Bampton could be affected by local events occurring in the village. Should this happen, we will allocate additional time for exploration in Oxford.
