Downton Abbey and Oxford Tour From London Including Highclere Castle

Exploring the world of "Downton Abbey" is a captivating experience that transports visitors back in time. This comprehensive tour from London offers a unique opportunity to take in the grandeur of Highclere Castle, the iconic filming location of the beloved TV series. Beyond the castle, the tour also unveils the historic charm of Oxford and the picturesque Bampton Village, where Downton Village was brought to life. With a guided walking tour, entry to Highclere Castle, and a personal memoir, this excursion promises a well-rounded Downton Abbey experience that combines the allure of English history and architecture. The stage is set for an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes that have captivated audiences worldwide.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from London that visits the historic city of Oxford, picturesque Bampton village, and the iconic Highclere Castle, the filming location for Downton Abbey.
• Includes guided walking tours of Oxford and Bampton village, with insights into the show’s filming locations and the historic charm of these destinations.
• Offers entry to Highclere Castle, where guests can explore the opulent rooms and grounds that were meticulously preserved to reflect the early 20th-century British aristocracy.
• Provides a copy of Lady Carnarvon’s autobiography, adding an extra layer of Downton Abbey-related content to the experience.
• Convenient meeting point at Victoria Coach Station in central London, with transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach and a professional guide throughout the tour.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from London takes visitors to the historic city of Oxford, the picturesque Bampton village, and the magnificent Highclere Castle, known as the filming location for the popular TV series Downton Abbey.

Guests will explore the famous university buildings of Oxford during a guided walking tour.

They’ll then travel to Bampton, which served as the setting for Downton Village in the show.

The tour culminates at Highclere Castle, where visitors can tour the opulent rooms and stroll the castle’s scenic grounds and gardens.

With entry to Highclere Castle, a copy of the host’s autobiography, and transportation by luxury coach, this tour provides a comprehensive Downton Abbey experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes entry to the renowned Highclere Castle, the iconic filming location for the Downton Abbey television series.

Plus, guests receive a walking tour of the historic city of Oxford and the picturesque Bampton village, along with a copy of Lady Carnarvon’s autobiography to enhance their Downton Abbey experience.

Transportation is provided by a luxury air-conditioned coach, while a professional guide accompanies the group throughout the day.

The tour doesn’t include food, drinks, gratuities, or hotel pickup and drop-off, but these additional expenses can be covered individually by the participants.

The comprehensive package ensures a remarkable and immersive Downton Abbey-themed adventure from London.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour departs from Victoria Coach Station in central London, with boarding starting at 8:00 AM and the departure time set for 8:15 AM.

Participants then return to Victoria Railway Station in London at the end of the day-long excursion.

The meeting point is convenient, as Victoria Coach Station is a major transportation hub, allowing easy access for travelers.

The departure time is early enough to make the most of the day’s activities, but not too early to cause inconvenience.

The return to Victoria Railway Station simplifies onward travel plans, as this central London location is well-connected to the city’s public transportation network.

Itinerary

First, visitors explore the historic city of Oxford and its famous university buildings during a guided walking tour.

Then, they travel to Bampton village, which is featured as Downton Village in the TV series.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to Highclere Castle, the filming location for Downton Abbey, where guests have the opportunity to tour the opulent rooms.

Finally, there’s free time to explore the castle’s grounds and gardens.

The tour offers a comprehensive Downton Abbey experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the world of the iconic television series while also discovering the historic charm of Oxford and its picturesque surroundings.

Entry to Highclere Castle

Upon arrival at Highclere Castle, guests are granted entry to explore the grand halls and opulent rooms that served as the iconic setting for the hit television series ‘Downton Abbey‘.

Visitors can wander through the meticulously preserved interiors, marveling at the ornate furnishings and historic architectural features that brought the beloved characters’ world to life on screen.

As they step inside, guests can imagine themselves as the aristocratic Crawley family, immersed in the captivating world of early 20th century British aristocracy.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes and uncover the fascinating history of this magnificent estate, offering a truly immersive Downton Abbey experience.

Walking Tour of Oxford

After departing Highclere Castle, the tour makes its way to the historic city of Oxford, where guests embark on a walking tour to explore the renowned university buildings and landmarks that have shaped the city’s rich academic heritage.

During the tour, visitors will:

• Marvel at the impressive architecture of iconic structures like the Bodleian Library, one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and the impressive Radcliffe Camera, a masterpiece of 18th-century Palladian design.

Visitors will also:

• Wander through the charming cobblestone streets, catching glimpses of the prestigious colleges that have produced some of the world’s most influential thinkers and leaders.

Plus, the tour will:

• Gain insights into Oxford’s role as a center of intellectual and cultural life, learning about the traditions and stories that have endured for centuries.

Visit Bampton Village

From Oxford, the tour then proceeds to the charming village of Bampton, which serves as the backdrop for the fictional Downton Village in the acclaimed TV series Downton Abbey.

Visitors explore the quaint streets and landmarks that have been immortalized on the small screen, including the picturesque St Mary’s Church and the iconic Churchgate House, which stood in for the Downton village pub.

Fans of the show can wander the same paths as the Crawley family and their servants, imagining the drama and intrigue that unfolded in this quintessentially English setting.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to step into the world of Downton Abbey and experience the charm of the real-life filming locations.

Additional Information

Confirmation for this tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.

A minimum number of travelers is required for the tour to operate, and it’s non-refundable and can’t be changed.

The tour provides a comprehensive experience for Downton Abbey enthusiasts. Key highlights include:

• Exploring the filming locations of the iconic TV series, including Highclere Castle and Bampton Village.
• Enjoying a walking tour of the historic city of Oxford and its famous university buildings.
• Receiving a copy of Lady Carnarvon’s autobiography as a souvenir of the memorable journey.

Travelers can expect a full-day tour led by a professional guide, with transportation by luxury air-conditioned coach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not include food or drinks, so attendees are welcome to bring their own. However, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside Highclere Castle during the tour.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour typically spends 2-3 hours at Oxford, 1-2 hours in Bampton village, and 2-3 hours at Highclere Castle, allowing ample time to explore each location. Exact timings may vary depending on the group’s pace and any unforeseen delays.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Student or Senior Travelers?

The tour information does not mention any discounts for student or senior travelers. Pricing appears to be a flat rate for all participants. Customers should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any potential discounts that may be available.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting Highclere Castle?

There is no formal dress code for visiting Highclere Castle. However, visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully, as it is a historic site. Casual yet smart attire is generally appropriate, though formal wear is not required.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs at Highclere Castle?

Visitors can purchase a variety of souvenirs at Highclere Castle, including books, jewelry, clothing, and other memorabilia related to the castle and the Downton Abbey television series. Onsite shops offer a range of items for visitors to take home as mementos.

Recap

This comprehensive Downton Abbey and Oxford tour from London offers an immersive experience for fans of the beloved TV series.

Visitors will explore the iconic filming locations of Highclere Castle and Bampton Village, along with the historic city of Oxford, providing a unique blend of television and English heritage.

With guided tours and exclusive extras, this tour delivers a well-rounded journey through the world of Downton Abbey.