Episode 187 Visiting Downton Abbey’s Real-Life Highclere Castle: Essential Planning Tips
In episode 187 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we break down how to plan a successful visit to Highclere Castle, the iconic home used as Downton Abbey.
While Highclere Castle looks like an easy day trip from London, it comes with a few important quirks. It is a private home with limited opening dates, tickets sell out quickly, and transport needs to be considered in advance.
In this episode, we explain what to book, when to go, and how to get there so your visit runs smoothly.
Click the blue button below to listen:
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclosure here for more information.
Liked this episode? Have a question? Leave me a voice message
Episode 187 – Summary
What you’ll learn in this episode
- The essential things to plan ahead for a successful visit to Highclere Castle, including limited opening dates and ticket availability
- The differences between guided tours, general admission, special events, and afternoon tea experiences
- How to get to Highclere Castle from London by train or car, including tips for organising onward transport from Newbury
- First impressions and insights from recent visits, with practical advice for enjoying the castle, gardens, and gift shop
- Why booking early and arranging transport in advance are critical for a smooth and stress-free day trip
UK places mentioned
- Highclere Castle >> A privately owned stately home in Hampshire, best known as the filming location for Downton Abbey. The castle is only open to visitors on select dates each year.
- Newbury >> The nearest train station to Highclere Castle and the usual base for taxi transfers to the estate.
- London Paddington >> The main London station for direct train services to Newbury.
- Lancelot Capability Brown gardens >> The landscaped grounds surrounding the castle were designed by one of England’s most famous landscape architects.
- Tutankhamun exhibition >> An exhibition exploring the 5th Earl of Carnarvon’s role in the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in Egypt.
Helpful Resources
Podcasts
- Episode #185 – Set-Jetting in the UK: Movie and TV Locations to Visit
- Episode #127 – Solo Travel in London : Trip Report with Melissa Jones
- Episode #168 – England Trip Report: Castles, Countryside + Iconic Sights
Articles
- Visiting Highclere Castle
- 18 Best Day trips from London (with travel tips + map)
- 18 Best Places To Visit In England
Tools, services, or tours mentioned
- Highclere Castle official website >> The only place to check opening dates, ticket types, and to book your visit in advance.
- UK Travel Planning consultations >> Personalised planning sessions to help you build a realistic UK itinerary and secure high-demand experiences.
- Local taxi companies in Newbury >> Pre-booking a taxi from Newbury station to Highclere Castle is strongly recommended to avoid delays and availability issues.
Book trusted London tours
We have personally taken tours with both of these companies and fully recommend them for small groups, excellent guides, and thoughtfully run experiences.
