Highclere Castle & Downton Abbey Tours from London
Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey
Visit the Real Downton Abbey
For many visitors to England, seeing Highclere Castle — the filming location of Downton Abbey — is a true bucket-list experience.
This is not just another country house. Highclere is one of England’s most famous estates, known around the world from the Downton Abbey series and films.
Because the Castle is a private home and opens only on selected dates each year, visiting requires careful planning. Tickets often sell out well in advance.
Our Downton Abbey tours from London allow visitors to see the real Highclere Castle along with filming locations from the famous television series.
We offer a small number of carefully chosen tours from London that include Highclere Castle and other Downton filming locations.
Compare small group, large group and private Downton Abbey tours from London below.
Why Highclere Castle Is So Special
Highclere Castle is a working estate with more than 300 rooms, surrounded by 1,000 acres of parkland.
Inside the Castle you can see:
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The grand staircase and saloon
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The State Rooms used in Downton Abbey
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The library and drawing rooms
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The Egyptian Exhibition
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Beautiful landscaped gardens
For Downton fans, it is thrilling to stand in the real rooms seen on screen. For others, it is simply one of England’s great historic houses.
Important: Limited Opening Dates
Highclere Castle is not open daily.
Openings usually take place in:
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Spring
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Summer
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Selected autumn dates
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Special event days
Dates are released gradually and vary each year and can be viewed here:
Highclere Opening Dates
Many travelers check this page first before choosing a tour.
For dates yet to be announced, you'll find a waiting list and we'll notify you if they become available.
Which Tour Should I Choose?
If your priority is:
Guaranteed Castle entry → Book early once dates appear
Seeing Downton filming villages → Choose a Bampton-inclusive tour
A relaxed pace → Small group tours
Flexibility → Private tours
All options include comfortable transport from London and are designed around official Highclere opening days.
If still unsure which tour to choose, see our article here:
Downton Abbey Tours from London - Which One is Best?
Which Small Group Tour Should You Choose?
We offer two small group tours. Our 9 hour tour, with a maximum of 19 guests visits the essentials which are Highclere Castle and the village of Bampton. Our extended 11-hour small group tour visits both of these locations and in addition travels to Cogges Farm and Portall Hall, with a drive-through the village of Shilton.
Who These Tours Suit Best
These tours are especially popular with:
This is a calm, enjoyable day rather than a rushed sightseeing schedule.
Why Book with Tourist England
We specialize in helping international visitors plan memorable trips in England.
Guests appreciate:
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Clear advice on limited opening dates
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Trusted tour operator partnerships
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Easy comparison of options
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Reassurance before booking
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Support if plans change
Many travelers tell us they value having reliable guidance before committing to tickets that sell out.
Plan Ahead
Because:
We strongly recommend booking early.
