Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle where the Downton Abbey series were filmed, England
Highclere Castle where the Downton Abbey series were filmed, England

Highclere Castle Tours and Tickets

1,306 reviews

A neo-Gothic masterpiece, Highclere Castle is best known for doubling as Downton Abbey in the much-loved TV series of the same name. The turreted, sandstone mansion was created by Sir Charles Barry, the architect behind England's Houses of Parliament. The site upon which it stands has been in the hands of the Carnarvon family since the 17th century, and the Earls of Carnarvon now welcome the public to explore the lavishly decorated interior, the Egyptian Exhibition, and the 1,000-acre (405-hectare) Capability Brown–designed grounds.

  • Hours vary by season.
  • Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 9RN

Tours and Tickets to Experience Highclere Castle

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What are people saying about Highclere Castle

Tom_K, Sep 2023
Loved Highclere Castle
We're big fans of the series and really enjoyed visiting the filming locations. The tour guide was a transplanted Texan who had a true passion for London. She knew more about Downton Abby than anybody I'd ever met. She could recite specific scenes from every season. She had knowledge of every actor in the series and there careers before and after the series. We really enjoyed visiting Bampton and Highclere castle.
Darryl_G, Sep 2023
Round trip to Downton Abby
Our driver was very professional, friendly and polite. Enjoyed our drive to and from highclere castle.
Joe_S, Sep 2023
Great Tour!
My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the tour of Oxford, Bampton and Highclere Castle! ChaCha (not sure of spelling) was very knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor which made the day very entertaining for all. Robert was a skillful driver in navigating the narrow streets of Oxford for us. I would highly recommend this tour for anyone interested in seeing the Downton filming sites and a nice trip to the Cotswolds.
Christine_G, Oct 2023
Downton Abbey day
A gorgeous Downton Abbey day! Michelle was incredible, smart and very informed. She was kind and made the day an unforgettable one. This is a must for any Downton fan
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What are Highclere Castle hours of operation?
A:
Highclere Castle hours of operation: Hours vary by season. . Buy tickets in advance on Viator. If you book with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
People Also Ask
Q:How long does it take to tour Highclere Castle?
A:Plan an hour to tour Downton Abbey’s Highclere Castle and another hour to browse the Egyptian Exhibition and gardens. If you spend a half-day, your visit will feel less rushed and allow time for café dining or afternoon tea (adults only) and relaxing on the grounds.
Q:What do you see on a tour of Highclere Castle?
A:Tours start with the state rooms of the castle, where many scenes from Downton Abbey were filmed. After exploring “upstairs,” the tours lead down the stairs to the Egyptian Exhibition. The tours include access to the gardens and grounds, where highlights like the rose arbor awaits.
Q:Is it free to walk around Highclere Castle?
A:No, the grounds are not free. You must buy Highclere Castle tickets to enter the building, gardens, and grounds. However, you can view the castle from a distance via the public footpaths that cut through the wider Highclere estate. The Highclere Park and Beacon Hill public walks offer stately views.
Q:Do you have to book to visit Highclere Castle?
A:Booking ahead is recommended. While you don’t have to book to visit, Highclere Castle has limited public opening dates; and it’s quite popular, given its Downton Abbey fame. In summer, entry can’t be guaranteed without a prebooked admission ticket. For tours and special events, tickets must be bought in advance.
Q:What months is Highclere Castle open?
A:Highclere Castle is a private estate with limited public open dates, usually between July and early September. There are special events such as Christmas tours with Champagne and canapés and film set tours that take place in the fall. Advance booking is essential.
Q:Can you take pictures inside Highclere Castle?
A:No, the castle is a private family home so photography is not allowed inside or in the Egyptian Exhibition. You can take outdoor snaps—as long as they are for personal use only—drones are not permitted anywhere on the Highclere estate.