Downton Abbey and Village Small Group Tour From London

Fans of the hit TV series Downton Abbey can now enjoy the world they love. This small group tour from London takes travelers to the picturesque village of Bampton and the iconic Highclere Castle, the filming location for the show. With expert guides, guests explore the charming streets and opulent interiors, capturing the essence of the series. The scenic Cotswolds drive completes this unforgettable experience, leaving participants eager to discover more.

Key Points

• A full-day immersive tour exploring the Downton Abbey filming locations, including Highclere Castle and the charming village of Bampton.
• Guided journey with live commentary and admission to key sites, offering an intimate small group experience.
• Scenic drive through the picturesque Cotswolds region, with insights into the show’s filming locations.
• Opportunity to explore the interiors of Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey, and its beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Round-trip transportation from Gloucester Road tube station, with a highly rated tour based on customer feedback.

Tour Overview

This Downton Abbey and Village Small Group Tour from London provides a full-day immersion into the iconic TV series.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour explores the real-life filming locations, including the village of Bampton and the iconic Highclere Castle.

Customers can expect a guided journey with live commentary, admission to Highclere Castle, and scenic drives through the picturesque Cotswolds region.

The tour’s starting time is 9 AM, and it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Exploring Bampton

As the tour makes its way to Bampton, the guides regale travelers with anecdotes about the quaint Oxfordshire village that served as the setting for the fictional Downton.

Visitors stroll through the village, stopping at the picturesque church, local pub, Matthew Crawley’s former home, and the Downton Cottage Hospital.

The guides share behind-the-scenes stories and point out key filming locations, bringing the beloved series to life.

While the time in Bampton is limited, travelers delight in exploring the charming streets and imagining the Crawley family’s comings and goings in this quintessential English village.

Inside Highclere Castle

After departing from charming Bampton, the tour arrives at the magnificent Highclere Castle, the real-life setting that served as the iconic Downton Abbey.

Visitors can explore the castle’s grand interiors, including:

1. The opulent main hall, adorned with intricate carvings and tapestries.
2. The elegant drawing room, where the Crawley family entertained guests.
3. The stately library, home to a vast collection of books and artifacts.

Beyond the interior, the castle’s beautifully landscaped gardens offer a peaceful retreat, allowing guests to enjoy the world of Downton Abbey.

Scenic Cotswolds Drive

The tour then embarks on a scenic drive through the picturesque Cotswolds region.

As the mini-coach winds through rolling pastures and charming stone villages, the guide provides commentary on the significance of this area to the Downton Abbey series.

Travelers glimpse the quintessential English countryside that served as the backdrop for many scenes. The guide points out architectural details and shares anecdotes about the filming locations.

This relaxing drive allows participants to appreciate the tranquil beauty of the Cotswolds, providing a pleasant contrast to the grandeur of Highclere Castle.

Transportation and Guide Services

The tour includes round-trip transportation by mini-coach from the meeting point at Gloucester Road tube station.

A local guide provides live commentary onboard, sharing insights and anecdotes about the Downton Abbey sites.

The included features of this tour are:

1. Round-trip transportation by mini-coach from the meeting point.
2. Services of a knowledgeable local guide with live commentary.
3. Admission to Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey.

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, allowing for a seamless start and end to the day’s exploration of the Downton Abbey legacy.

Meeting Point and End of Tour

Travelers should arrive at the Gloucester Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 4SF, UK meeting point at least 10 minutes early, as a guide will wait outside the flower shop near the station exit. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

This Downton Abbey tour from London has garnered an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 322 reviews.

Travelers commonly praise the tour’s memorable experiences at Highclere Castle, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized itinerary.

Some suggestions for improvement include:

1. Providing more information on additional exhibits, such as the Egyptian artifacts, at Highclere Castle.
2. Allowing for more time to explore the charming village of Bampton.
3. Considering adding a stop at Yew Tree Farm, the filming location for Downton’s tenant farm.

Memorable Experiences

Although the tour covers several notable locations, travelers consistently highlight their experiences at Highclere Castle as the most memorable.

Stepping inside the real-life Downton Abbey is a surreal experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the iconic settings from the beloved TV series. Wandering through the grand halls, drawing rooms, and libraries brings the show to life.

Guests marvel at the opulent architecture and furnishings, while the knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the castle’s history and its connection to the Crawley family.

For many, this is the undisputed highlight of the day’s adventures.

Since You Asked

How Strict Is the Dress Code at Highclere Castle?

There’s no strict dress code at Highclere Castle. Visitors can wear casual, comfortable clothing. However, dressing smartly is recommended to fully appreciate the grand, historic setting of the former Downton Abbey estate.

Are Photography and Video Allowed Inside Highclere Castle?

Photography and video are generally allowed inside Highclere Castle, though visitors should avoid using flash. Some restrictions may apply in certain areas, so it’s best to check with staff upon arrival.

Can Visitors Explore the Highclere Castle Gardens on Their Own?

Visitors can explore the Highclere Castle gardens on their own during the tour. The self-guided exploration allows them to wander the beautiful grounds at their own pace after touring the castle’s interiors.

What Types of Food and Drinks Are Available During the Tour?

According to the tour overview, food and drinks are not included in the tour amenities. Travelers will need to bring their own meals and refreshments or purchase them separately during the tour stops.

Is There a Recommended Order for Visiting the Tour Sites?

The tour typically follows a recommended order, visiting Bampton village first, then Highclere Castle, with a scenic drive through the Cotswolds in between. This allows travelers to see the key sites associated with the Downton Abbey TV series.

The Sum Up

This tour offers Downton Abbey fans an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the charming village of Bampton, tour the stunning Highclere Castle, and enjoy scenic drives through the Cotswolds. With knowledgeable guides and a small group setting, it’s a unique opportunity to take in the iconic locations from the beloved series. Travelers consistently rave about the memorable experiences provided by this comprehensive day trip from London.