Step into the enchanting world of Downton Abbey with our meticulously curated immersive experience, taking you to iconic filming locations across London, Hampshire, and Oxfordshire. As part of this set jetting adventure, visit key sites from the beloved series in London before enjoying a unique afternoon tea-making class in a charming Victorian home hosted by a local Englishwoman. Explore Highclere Castle, the magnificent estate that served as the iconic Downton Abbey. Indulge in a luxurious private canal boat experience featuring private dining and drinks, followed by a meal at a local pub. Embark on a day trip to Lacock, a quaint village known for its original timber-framed houses featured in various TV dramas, including Cranford, Pride & Prejudice, and Downton Abbey. This enchanting itinerary is perfect for fans of the series, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and cinematic magic.
Upon arrival at the London Heathrow airport, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of your day at your own leisure.
Hotel: The Lanesborough
This morning, begin your adventure with a local guide for a half-day tour of London. Discover iconic landmarks including the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square. Enjoy panoramic views of London from the London Eye, one of the world’s largest observation wheels. In the afternoon, visit a local Englishwoman’s Victorian home for an intimate afternoon tea-making class. Experience a brief tour of her charming detached house before learning the art of tea preparation. Receive step-by-step guidance and recipes for scones, shortbread, and specialty sandwiches, and take home a written record of your culinary skills. Conclude your experience with a delightful afternoon tea in the drawing room, with refined etiquette and engaging conversation reminiscent of the 'Downton Abbey' era.
Hotel: The Lanesborough
This morning, enjoy a private transfer to the Victoria and Albert Museum. A guide will lead you through a curated tour, showcasing the museum’s renowned fashion collection from 17th-century garments to contemporary haute couture, including iconic pieces like the dinner jackets from Downton Abbey and revolutionary flapper dresses. Explore a variety of accessories such as jewelry, gloves, and handbags. Next, visit the Dr. Susan Weber Gallery to delve into hundreds of years of furniture design, featuring works by renowned designers like Thomas Chippendale, Frank Lloyd Wright, Eileen Gray, and Charles and Ray Eames. After your museum visit, enjoy a private transfer to Hampshire. In the evening, enjoy a serene cruise along the picturesque Basingstoke Canal, which runs through your hotel’s estate.
Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire
This morning, enjoy a private transfer to the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, where you’ll see a range of vehicles from motoring pioneers to TV-famous cars, including models from Downton Abbey. Next, explore the ‘Secret Army Exhibition’ to uncover the history of the Special Operations Executive. Continue to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to explore historic vessels and the world’s oldest dry dock. Enjoy a luxurious 17-meter canal boat experience with private dining and drinks, followed by a meal at a local pub before returning to your hotel.
Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire
Today, embark on an adventure to Highclere Castle in Hampshire, the real-life filming location of Downton Abbey. Owned by the Earl and Countess Carnarvon since 1679, this grand Victorian castle sits on the grounds of a medieval palace and is surrounded by acres of stunning parklands. Explore opulent rooms featured in the show, including the Drawing Room, Library, Main Hall, and various bedrooms. Visit the picturesque village of Highclere, where additional scenes were filmed, including the church and village square. After your tour, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in Oxfordshire.
Hotel: Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel
This morning, visit Bampton in Oxfordshire, a key filming location for Downton Abbey. Explore notable sites such as the local church, hospital, village pub, and possibly Matthew Crawley’s home. Next, head to Blenheim Palace, the residence of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Designed by Vanbrugh and set amidst Capability Brown’s landscaped park, the palace offers insights into the life of Grace Ridley, the 1st Duchess's maid. After your tour, enjoy a private transfer back to your hotel.
Hotel: Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel
Today, enjoy a day trip to Lacock, a village with original timber-framed houses featured in TV dramas such as Cranford, Pride & Prejudice, and Downton Abbey. If time allows, visit the spa town of Bath, the setting for Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. Explore the Jane Austen Museum, the Roman Baths, and Bath’s iconic Palladian architecture, including the Circus and the Royal Crescent. After your tour, enjoy a private transfer back to your hotel.
Hotel: Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel
This morning, following breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a private transfer to the airport in time for your flight.