Recent Searches
Clear
Close

Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London

star-4.587 reviews
|
Greater London, United Kingdom
Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London
See More
See More
Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London
Highclere Castle
See filming locations from the TV series Downton Abbey including the Swan Inn
See More

From USD232.48

Lowest Price Guarantee

Select Date and Travellers

Number of travellers
0 Adults1 Adult2 Adults3 Adults4 Adults5 Adults6 Adults7 Adults8 Adults9 Adults0 Children1 Child2 Children3 Children4 Children5 Children6 Children7 Children8 Children9 Children
Non-refundable
You will not receive a refund if you cancel. Learn more
Loading available options...
Safety measures
icon11 hours  (approx.)
Mobile ticket
iconOffered in: English
Good for avoiding crowds

Explore our promoted experiences

Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here

Overview

Discover the natural and architectural splendor of ‘Downtown Abbey’ filming locations on a full-day tour of the Cotswolds from London. With a knowledgeable guide, travel through the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside and visit the charming farm village of Cogges and Bampton, the setting of ‘Downtown Abbey’s’ quintessentially English town. See recognizable sights like the Grantham Arms pub and then spend the afternoon exploring Highclere Castle on a guided tour of the structure’s opulent chambers.
  • Full-day 'Downton Abbey' filming locations tour including Highclere Castle
  • Hear anecdotes and gossip about the 'Downton Abbey' series and characters such as Lady Mary
  • Explore the gardens and state rooms of Highclere Castle, seeing bedrooms, the smoking room, and more
  • Small-group tour with a maximum of 18 people ensures personalized attention at all times
Saved to wishlist!

From USD232.48

Lowest Price Guarantee
Book Now
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Professional guide
Entry to Cogges Manor Farm
Guided tour of Bampton
Entry to Highclere Castle
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hard Rock Hotel London , c, o, Great Cumberland Pl, London W1H 7DL, UK
Open in Google Maps

07.30am Outside the Hard Rock Hotel main entrance, Marble Arch (formerly the Cumberland Hotel)

7:30 AM
Victoria station , London SW1W 0AH, UK
Open in Google Maps

Return point: Returns to Victoria Train Station at approximately 7pm

Depart from a central London location in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan and listen to entertaining anecdotes surrounding the hit series from your guide. Stay entertained by 'Downtown Abbey' tales and trivia as you travel, and admire the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside during the journey. 

Stop first at a traditional farm nestled amid the rolling hills of Cogges and refresh with a hot drink in the farm’s rustic café (own expense). Discover a scattering of filming locations before returning to the vehicle to travel onward to Bampton, the gorgeous village used extensively as Downton village. 

See recognizable sights like the village church and the Crawley family home as you enjoy a guided walking tour of Bampton, and then continue to Highclere Castle, arguably the most iconic 'Downtown Abbey' filming location. Gasp as you approach the lavish neoclassical façade of the residence and then embark on a leisurely stroll of the castle’s sublime gardens and grounds. 

After exploring enclaves like the Secret Garden and the Wood of Goodwill, revitalize with a snack in the on-site tea rooms and then discover the opulence of Highclere Castle’s interior during a guided tour.  See rooms graced by classic characters like Lady Sybil and hear tales of the castle’s rich history as you wander. 

Return to your comfortable coach after a thorough exploration of the castle and relax during the journey back to central London, where the tour concludes.
Itinerary
Stop At:  
Cogges Manor Farm
Leave London’s Marble Arch by air-conditioned minivan, and travel west to the rolling limestone hills of Oxfordshire. On the journey, your guide will keep you entertained with tales and trivia about the Downton Abbey TV series that has a fan base spread all over the world. Filmed mostly in and around Oxfordshire, the British period drama of Downton Abbey documents the dramas and scandals of the fictional Crawley family and their servants in the days leading up to and after the First World War. Hear insider gossip about characters such as Lady Mary, and discover little-known facts about the shooting locations included on your tour. Stop at a farm nestled in the hills near Cogges and enjoy a hot drink (own expense) in the farm’s rustic cafe before discovering a few of the farm’s filming locations.
... MoreLess
Duration: 1 hour 
Admission Ticket Included
Stop At:  
Cogges Manor Farm
Cogges Manor Farm
... MoreLess
Duration: 1 hour 
Admission Ticket Included
Stop At:  
Bampton Library
Continue to Bampton in the Cotswolds, a quintessentially English village that was used extensively as Downton village throughout the entire series. On a walking tour, see the village church — the site of Lady Mary’s wedding to Matthew Crawley — and the house that was once used as the Crawley family home. Stroll along the main street, seeing shops used for filming as well as sights such as the fictional Grantham Arms pub.
... MoreLess
Duration: 30 minutes
Admission Ticket Included
Pass By:  
The Swan Inn
Photo stop
... MoreLess
Stop At:  
Highclere Castle
Travel onward to continue to Highclere Castle, one of the best-known Downton filming locations, to explore with your guide. Walk around the lavish estate that surrounds the castle, comprising Monk’s Garden, White Border, Secret Garden and the Wood of Goodwill, and hear all about Highclere Castle’s role as the Grantham family home. Enjoy free time for lunch or a snack in the onsite tea rooms that serves food from the castle’s kitchens, and then step inside Highclere Castle to explore each of its state rooms. See the dining, music and smoking rooms that the likes of Lady Sybil graced with their presence, and learn all about the real-life family who have owned Highclere Castle since the late 17th century: the Carnarvons. After exploring further areas of the impressive filming site such as the Red Stairs, saloon, gallery and bedrooms, return to your minivan with your guide. Relax on the journey back to London, and then finish your day trip with a drop-off at the Victoria Train Station.
... MoreLess
Duration: 3 hours 
Admission Ticket Included
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 1 day of travel. In this case confirmation will be received as soon as possible, subject to availability
  • Please note: Once the booking is submitted all sales are final, non-changeable, non-transferable and incur 100% cancellation penalties
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Infants must sit on laps
  • Most travellers can participate
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 18 travellers
  • OPERATED BY International Friends
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

    Learn more about cancellations.

    The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
    Q:
    What is the policy on sanitisation during Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London?
    A:The policies on sanitisation are:

    • Hand sanitiser available to travellers and staff
    • Transportation vehicles regularly sanitised
    See all safety measures taken by Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London.
    Q:
    What measures are being taken to ensure staff health & safety during Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London?
    A:The policy on staff health & safety is:

    • Guides required to regularly wash hands
    See all safety measures taken by Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London.

    Traveller Photos

    See More
    See More

    Traveller Tips

    • "For Downton Abbey Lovers this was the dream trip..it would be important to have Steve be the guide." See review
    • "First of all, stopping at multiple locations to see various aspects of filming made for a more well-rounded day." See review
    • "The tour allows you to see areas of the Cotswolds and ends with three good hours at Highclere." See review

    Reviews

    4.5
    star-4.5
    87 reviews
    5 stars
    75
    4 stars
    6
    3 stars
    3
    2 stars
    1
    1 star
    2

    Reviews by Viator travellers

    We perform checks on reviews

    Showing 1-10 of 87 reviews
    star-5
    Amazing Downton Experience
    Cameron_M
    , May 2022
    Our tour guide (Andrew) was so informative about the show and English history. I am so glad we joined the small group.
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    We had the very best time...
    Geradine_B
    , May 2022
    We had the very best time yesterday!!! Andrew was simply amazing, kind and very accommodating! He made the whole visit absolutely magical!! My 11, 12 and 13 year old had zero issues with the length of the day so if you have children don’t be afraid to book! The day flew by and we were fully engaged and enjoyed all the lessons along the way! Thank you for a wonderful day!!
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    The tour was amazing. The...
    zeller_J
    , May 2022
    The tour was amazing. The tour guide was perfect. He knew every aspect of the show and the characters. He was funny and really clever. The whole experience was a dream come true!
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    A must experience!
    Francene_L
    , May 2022
    Mingling with Lord and Lady Carnarvon in the garden after the house tour. The lunch on the lawn was lovely as well.
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    Must do for Downton fans
    Thomas_H
    , May 2022
    Wonderful tour! Can’t say enough about our guide Michelle. She was a wealth of knowledge, personable, and just plain nice! Carl, our bus driver, was also great!
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    A nicely organized day trip
    Jason_M
    , May 2022
    The crew and the driver were all so nice and we enjoyed nice conversations and also brought up interesting points about the different stops. It was all organized well and was glad to see it all. The driver was very helpful in where to drop us off, that was really appreciated, all in all a great day!
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    A wonderful peaceful day
    Melinda_H
    , Apr. 2022
    The whole trip was wonderful. Our guide, Michelle, was so nice from the very beginning. I loved having a small tour and it was a group of adults so that was just wonderful. Coggs Manor was brilliant. I’m so glad I chose a tour that included this stop. It is picture perfect, beautiful and serene. Absolutely loved it all. Going to the small towns was fantastic! I could picture Downton Abby! Highclere Castle was just breathtaking. The grounds were immaculate, the rooms were beautiful, and seeing the Egyptian artifacts was wonderful. My husband and I both loved it. It was a perfect day!
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    This is the one you want for Downton Abbey!
    Lawrence_C
    , Apr. 2022
    Wow!! Just perfect! Incredible tour guide with energy who truly loves this! You see it ALL! The bus was one of those small Mercedes buses which was perfect! This is the tour you want if you like Downtown Abbey….it was a little more than the others but you need to be on the smaller bus to get to places the bigger buses cannot.
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    Fantastic!
    Daria_B
    , Sep. 2021
    Felt incredible to see the real castle , Cogges Farm & Bampton. Our tour guide Carol was very knowledgeable & driver Richard was both personable & shared really helpful tips.
    ... MoreLess
    1 traveller found this review helpful
    star-1
    Penalized by COVID-19
    Marsha_D
    , Sep. 2020
    Because of COVID-19 our trip to Britain, Ireland and Scotland was rescheduled for 2021 by Insight Tours. I tried to get Viator to reschedule our small group tour for 2021. They refused and I have lost $250. I will be taking a similar tour to Highclere Castle but it will NOT be through Viator.
    ... MoreLess
    4 travellers found this review helpful
    star-5
    na
    Mary_R
    , Jul. 2020
    We had to reschedule for 2021 since we' not allowed right now. :( You were great to make that change happen.
    ... MoreLess
    star-1
    Customer service lacking
    Sharon_C
    , Jul. 2020
    COVID travel restrictions prohibited travel from US to the U.K. Given we were prohibited from traveling, Neither Viator nor the local travel company agreed to refund the excursion. Other companies, such as Expedia and other local U.K. tour groups refunded the non-refundable trips such as this one.
    ... MoreLess
    1 traveller found this review helpful
    star-5
    Yo Tony!
    mm619att
    , Sep. 2019
    In the states Tony would have his own TV show- he’s personable, witty and has a wealth of knowledge that should be put in an available tour book.. not kidding, we all would buy it! Great Day- Do It!
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    We have a superb time
    richardriga2019
    , Sep. 2019
    This tour was absolutely worthwhile for us. The smaller group made it seem more intimate. We all met at the Hard Rock London where the fun began. We first made a services stop to get food and beverage for the day so that we could have a picnic on the lawn at Highclere. After Highclere, we drove through the countryside until we got to the Yew Tree Farm where we spent lots of time exploring the gardens, the house and the barns. The cafe was a great place to end the tour with a tea. Afterwards, we took country roads to some other scenic sites from the show - I'll leave those as surprise extras for you. We eventually landed in Bampton, where we were able to tour the village, the church, the library and visit local shops. Highclere was the eventual highlight of the day where we did a tour of the house (tip: dont do this first, explore the grounds, have a drink, eat your lunch), toured the grounds, visited the exhibit in the basement and took lots of pictures. Thank you to International Friends, and especially Amber and Richard and the staff at Yew Tree and Highclere. Amber was a fantastic tour guide, chock full of humor, information, anecdotes, stories and insider tips for us. Our driver, Richard, was also fantastic, navigating the roads like a professional and getting us to our destinations safe, sound and on-time.
    ... MoreLess
    1 traveller found this review helpful
    star-5
    The Greatest
    Kenneth M
    , Aug. 2019
    For Downton Abbey Lovers this was the dream trip..it would be important to have Steve be the guide. Knew every episode showed u where everything happened, it doesn't get any better than with Steve!!
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    A must for Downton Abbey fans
    Elizabeth_M
    , Aug. 2019
    This tour was everything I'd hoped for when surprising my daughter with a trip to see the sights of her favorite tv series. Our guide Tony was a pure delight- witty, funny, full of interesting behind the scenes information. The tour allows you to see areas of the Cotswolds and ends with three good hours at Highclere. The small group allowed us to see and do more as well as become friends. Great day!
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    Downton Abbey Filming Locations
    Calidesigngirl
    , Aug. 2019
    My daughter and I took this small group tour of the Downton Abbey filming locations and the Cotswolds yesterday. Our guide, Andrew, was knowledgable and presented the history and anecdotes in a very entertaining way. We enjoyed the day very much!
    ... MoreLess
    1 traveller found this review helpful
    star-5
    Tony is a fabulous tour guide
    gloriareading
    , Aug. 2019
    What a wonderful day. The other guests were lovely. Tony was a knowledgeable and outstandingr host. This tour was my BD gift from me to me. Loved every minute.
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    Dreamy day with Debbie and Downton!
    caseypurnhagen
    , Jul. 2019
    We had the most wonderful day! My husband and I were visiting London for a long weekend, expressly for the purpose of seeing Highclere Castle and all things Downton and this tour exceeded our expectations. First of all, stopping at multiple locations to see various aspects of filming made for a more well-rounded day. As much as we loved Highclere, seeing Coggs Manor Farm and Bampton made the experience so much richer. Debbie was an absolutely terrific tour guide. Not only is she energetic, but she knows e-ver-y-thing (and everyone for that matter). It was wonderful to be treated like VIPs (whether we were or not is inconsequential). Her insider stories made things so much fun! PLUS, for us, the most valuable part was her insider tips about how to make the most of our Highclere visit, when to snap the best pictures, what to wait for so there were less people, etc. That level of knowledge made such a big difference to our day, and we are so grateful. Special shout-out to our driver Richard too - he was friendly, super accommodating, and a great driver. He even took the time to make sure that every guest knew exactly which Underground connections to take to get home. He didn't have to do that, but taking that extra time at the end of a long day was so wonderful. The small group tour was the way to go for sure. Larger groups were much tougher navigating around and weren't able to see some of the things we saw in the smaller van.
    ... MoreLess
    star-5
    This Tour Is A Dream for 'Downton" Fans!
    jmmome
    , Jul. 2019
    Highclere Castle is exactly what you know and love from the series. Even the furniture and placement is what you see on "Downton Abbey". Our Tour guide Tony was informative and entertaining on the bus ride to and from Highclere. Tony knows some of the cast & crew from the series, and he was able to give us some behind-the-scenes info on some of your favorite characters. We have been on a lot of tours over the years, and he tops our list of guides for sure. Book the small group tour!
    ... MoreLess
    Why you are seeing these recommendations

    Compare Similar Experiences

    Current
    Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London
    Small-Group 'Downton Abbey' and Highclere Castle Tour from London
    star-4.587
    11 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD232.48
    Small Group Tour: Downton Abbey and Village Tour of Locations from London
    star-4.596
    9 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD159.91
    Private Tour: 'Downton Abbey London Locations by Taxi
    star-58
    4 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD453.89
    Downton Abbey and Oxford Tour from London Including Highclere Castle
    star-4.5407
    10 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD172.21
    Private Tour to Stonehenge and Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey)
    star-51
    9 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD289.06
    'Downton Abbey' TV Locations and Blenheim Palace Tour from London
    star-4.542
    10 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD183.28
    Likely to Sell Out
    Downton Abbey Day In The Cotswolds Tour
    star-53
    9 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD289.06
    Downton Abbey and Village Tour from London by Coach
    star-4.551
    9 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD116.86
    Private Downton Abbey Tour, including Bampton, Cogges Farm, and Highclere
    star-52
    9 hours
    Free Cancellation
    From
    USD270.61
    Why you are seeing these recommendations

    Explore Similar Things to Do

    Bus ToursHistorical ToursMovie ToursFull-day ToursDay TripsCultural & Theme ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsTours & SightseeingLondonBus Tours - HorleyHistorical Tours - HorleyMovie Tours - HorleyFull-day Tours - HorleyDay Trips - HorleyBus Tours - Stansted MountfitchetHistorical Tours - Stansted MountfitchetMovie Tours - Stansted MountfitchetFull-day Tours - Stansted MountfitchetDay Trips - Stansted MountfitchetBus Tours - CambridgeHistorical Tours - CambridgeMovie Tours - CambridgeFull-day Tours - CambridgeDay Trips - CambridgeCategory

    Attractions in London

    Regent's Park Tours & TicketsCenotaph Tours & TicketsWarwick Castle Tours & TicketsMCC Museum Tours & TicketsWestminster Bridge Tours & TicketsLeicester Square Tours & TicketsBrick Lane Music Hall Tours & TicketsCartoon Museum Tours & TicketsSt. Pancras International Tours & TicketsEltham Palace Tours & TicketsWimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum Tours & TicketsCriterion Theatre Tours & TicketsApsley House (Wellington Museum) Tours & TicketsBoxpark Shoreditch Tours & TicketsMansion House Tours & TicketsRoyal Festival Hall Tours & TicketsSouth Bank Tours & TicketsLondon National Theatre Tours & TicketsLondon Bridge Tours & TicketsBeefeater Gin Distillery Tours & Tickets
    Why you are seeing these recommendations