Downton Abbey & Highclere Castle Tour from London, with Oxford

Overview

Explore the iconic filming locations of the award-winning Downton Abbey television series on this full-day tour from London. Following the release of Downton Abbey 3: The Grand Finale, immerse yourself in the magic of the show by visiting the real-life places that brought the story to life. Begin with a guided tour of historic Oxford, often called the “City of Dreaming Spires,” and home to one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Your next stop is Bampton (Downton Village), a picturesque village in the Cotswolds and the charming setting for many of the show’s outdoor scenes. Finally, visit Highclere, the magnificent home of the real Downton Abbey. Discover fascinating insights into Edwardian England, hear behind-the-scenes stories about your favorite characters, and learn about the real family who have owned the castle since the 17th century. This popular tour has limited availability and often sells out quickly, Book now to secure your place!

What's included

• ✓Professional guide
• ✓Entry to Highclere Castle
• ✓Walking Tour of Oxford
• ✓Visit to the Village of Bampton
• ✓A copy of Lady Carnarvon's autobiography
• ✓Transportation by Air-Conditioned Coach

• ✕Food and drinks
• ✕Gratuities
• ✕Hotel pickup and drop-off

What you'll do

1. 1

   Discover the timeless beauty of Oxford on a guided walking tour through this historic city, home to world-renowned universities since 1196. Stroll through picturesque streets beneath the city’s iconic ‘dreaming spires,’ explore renowned colleges, and learn about the scholars who shaped history, from Tolkien to Einstein.

   ⏱ 2 hours
2. 2

   Learn about Oxford’s centuries-long legacy of academic excellence, where notable figures like Stephen Hawking, Oscar Wilde, and Margaret Thatcher studied. Wander through the Bodleian Library and the Radcliffe Camera, both treasures of knowledge and history.

   ⏱ 30 min
3. 3

   Discover the charming village of Bampton, the picturesque setting for many of Downton Abbey's most memorable scenes. Stroll through the village streets and recognize iconic filming locations like the village green and the historic Bampton Library, which served as the fictional “Downton village” throughout the series. Immerse yourself in the world of the Crawley family as you explore these charming spots and learn about the real-life village that became part of television history.

   ⏱ 1 hour
4. 4

   Admire the church’s striking exterior and peaceful atmosphere, which made St. Mary’s the perfect backdrop for the fictional village of Downton, adding to the show’s sense of history and tradition.

   ⏱ 15 min
5. 5

   End your day with the grand finale: a visit to the magnificent Highclere Castle, the iconic home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the stunning setting of Downton Abbey. Explore the lavish State Rooms, filled with priceless antiques and artwork, and step into the very halls where the Crawley family and their staff once walked. Wander through the castle’s beautifully manicured grounds, taking in the breathtaking views that make Highclere a truly unforgettable experience. With the release of Downton Abbey 3: The Grand Finale, this is your chance to experience the real-life locations that brought the story to life.

Availability & pricing

Pick your exact date & check live availability on the booking page.

Good to know

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• The itinerary is subject to change. The visit to Bampton cannot be guaranteed in case of events taking place in the village. In this case extra time will be spent in Oxford.
• The tour operates between April and early September, 3–4 days per week. There is no tour in June due to Highclere Castle being closed.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.