Highclere Castle

Description

Let me tell you about Highclere Castle – and trust me, it’s way more than just the backdrop for Downton Abbey (though that’s pretty cool too!). This stunning Victorian mansion sits proudly in the English countryside, looking exactly like what you’d imagine when someone says “grand English castle.” I remember the first time I rounded that corner on the driveway – my jaw literally dropped!

The castle’s honey-colored stone walls and towering turrets rise dramatically against the sky, creating that perfect fairy-tale silhouette we all dream about. Inside, it’s even better. The rooms are absolutely spectacular, with intricate wooden panels, silk wallpaper, and furniture that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The Great Hall will stop you in your tracks – those 50-foot ceilings and Gothic arches are something else!

But here’s something many folks don’t know: before it became famous as Downton Abbey, this was (and still is) the home of the Carnarvon family. The current Earl and Countess actually live here! And get this – the 5th Earl of Carnarvon helped discover King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Pretty wild, right?

Key Features

• The State Dining Room – seriously, the most elegant room you’ll ever eat in (if you’re lucky enough to attend an event here!)
• The Saloon – with its incredible leather wall coverings and massive fireplace
• The Library – housing over 5,500 books, some dating back to the 16th century
• The Egyptian Exhibition – featuring real artifacts from the 5th Earl’s expeditions
• The Secret Door – yes, there’s actually a hidden door in the Drawing Room!
• 1,000 acres of parkland designed by Capability Brown
• The Monks’ Garden – a peaceful spot that’s totally Instagram-worthy
• The “Downton Abbey” filming locations throughout the castle
• The cellars, which were turned into a makeshift hospital during WWI
• The iconic oak staircase you’ll recognize from countless Downton scenes

Best Time to Visit

I’d say spring or summer is your best bet for visiting Highclere Castle. The gardens are in full bloom then, and you can really make the most of those gorgeous grounds. The castle usually opens its doors to visitors from July to September, with some special openings around Easter and Christmas.

But heads up – if you’re hoping to avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting during weekdays or early in the morning. The Christmas special openings are magical (I went last year and it was incredible), but they sell out super fast.

How to Get There

Getting to Highclere Castle is pretty straightforward. The closest train station is Newbury, and from there you can grab a taxi for the short ride to the castle. If you’re driving (which I’d recommend), it’s about an hour from London – just follow the brown tourist signs once you’re in the area.

By car, you’ll have more flexibility to explore the surrounding area too. The parking is free and there’s plenty of it, though it can get busy during peak season. Ya might wanna arrive early to snag a good spot.

Tips for Visiting

Okay, here’s the inside scoop from someone who’s been there multiple times: Book your tickets in advance! Like, way in advance. They sell out quickly, especially during peak season and special events. The castle’s website releases tickets several months ahead, and trust me, you don’t wanna miss out.

Bring comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing lots of walking, and those gorgeous gardens deserve proper exploration. The gravel paths can be tricky in heels (learned that one the hard way!).

Pack a camera, but remember that photos aren’t allowed inside the castle. Total bummer, I know, but it helps preserve the artwork and furnishings. The good news? You can snap away in the gardens!

The tea room serves amazing scones – seriously, don’t skip them. But if you’re planning to make a day of it, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the grounds. There are some perfect spots near the follies.

Give yourself at least 3-4 hours to see everything properly. The castle tour takes about an hour, but you’ll want extra time for the Egyptian Exhibition, gardens, and gift shop (which has some pretty cool Downton Abbey merch).

Oh, and one last thing – check the weather forecast before you go. The gardens are gorgeous in the rain, but you’ll enjoy them more when it’s dry. And believe me, you don’t wanna miss walking through that wild flower meadow or getting that perfect photo of the castle from the South Lawn!

Location

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