Is Highclere Castle Worth Visiting? 5 Reasons To Go

If you are a Downton Abbey fan like me, you might wonder if Highclere Castle is worth visiting. And the answer is simply, hell yes!

It was my long-term goal and dream to walk the property and interior of Highclere Castle, and last December, I turned that dream into a reality!

As a die-hard fan of the show and someone who gets giddy at the mere sight of castles, I couldn’t resist the chance to see the series’ iconic setting up close and personal.

And let me tell you, it was every bit as magical as I hoped it would be. Now, I’m here to spill the tea (very fitting, I know) on WHY Highclere Castle is not just a must-visit for Downton Abbey fans but for anyone who loves a good dose of history, architecture, and, let’s not forget, stunning landscapes.

So, grab your fanciest hat, and let’s explore the five reasons Highclere Castle is absolutely worth the trip!

You’ll Love Visiting Highclere Castle If…

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#1. You’re a history buff with a penchant for storytelling.

Highclere Castle is more than just a setting for a popular TV show; it’s a historical treasure dating back to the 9th century.

Renowned for its Victorian architecture by Sir Charles Barry, it offers a deep dive into England’s noble past.

Exploring its grand rooms and corridors is like walking through history, with each artifact telling a piece of the story.

From antique furniture and stunning paintings to well-preserved bedrooms, it promises a journey back in time.

Highclere Castle is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience history up close.

#2. You’re a nature lover and a landscape enthusiast.

Imagine exploring thousands of acres filled with beautiful gardens and forests.

Highclere Castle is surrounded by 5,000 acres of stunning land, designed by the famous Capability Brown.

Highclere Castle is perfect for nature lovers, offering peaceful walks among trees, flowers, and beautiful views.

It’s a chance to see the beauty of the English countryside, changing with the seasons.

So, get ready for a walk, take your camera and maybe an umbrella, and enjoy the natural beauty at Highclere Castle.

#3. You’re an aficionado of art and architecture.

Highclere Castle is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, a grand statement of opulence and design that stands as a proud testament to the genius of Sir Charles Barry.

He is the same architect who designed the Houses of Parliament. As you approach the castle, the first thing that strikes you is its imposing facade.

You can’t believe the towering turrets and intricate stonework that could easily be mistaken for a scene from a fairy tale.

But the exterior is just the beginning. Inside, the castle unfolds like a living gallery, adorned with historically significant artworks, family portraits that span generations, and sumptuous furnishings that capture the essence of aristocratic life.

Each room, from the majestic saloon with its ornate ceiling to the serene library filled with ancient tomes, tells a story not just of the family who lives there, but of the craftsmen, artists, and visionaries who have left their mark over the centuries.

For anyone with a love for the arts or an appreciation for architectural grandeur, Highclere Castle offers a feast for the senses, inviting you to linger and admire the creativity and craftsmanship that define every corner of this historic home.

#4. You’re a fan of “Downton Abbey”

I got a kick out of walking through the very halls where Lady Mary plotted her next move or peering into the drawing room where the Dowagers exchanged their witty barbs.

For fans of Downton Abbey, visiting Highclere Castle is like stepping onto the show’s set, where fiction meets reality in the most enchanting way.

The castle served as the series’s primary filming location; as you explore its rooms and corridors, you’ll recognize iconic settings from the Grantham family’s dramas and joys.

Whether you’re snapping a photo in front of the grand staircase or imagining the hustle and bustle of the servants’ quarters, this is a must-visit for any “Downton Abbey” enthusiast looking to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters.

I will say that the interior rooms feel much smaller in person than they appear on screen.

#5. You’re fascinated by the allure of ancient Egypt

Highclere Castle holds a unique treasure beyond its walls and historical charm; it’s the ancestral home of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who, alongside Howard Carter, discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922.

This connection brings a touch of mystery and ancient history right to the heart of the English countryside.

Visitors have the remarkable opportunity to explore an exhibition within the castle that delves into this monumental archaeological find. The exhibition features replicas and original items related to the discovery, along with personal photographs and diaries from the expedition.

It’s a compelling blend of English aristocracy and Egyptian antiquities, offering a glimpse into the golden age of exploration and the thrilling chase for historical truths.

For anyone intrigued by the stories of the past, particularly the fascinating world of Egyptology, Highclere Castle presents a rare chance to walk in the footsteps of adventurers who unveiled one of history’s greatest treasures.

This aspect of Highclere not only enriches its historical tapestry but also captivates the imagination of all who visit, making it a truly unique destination.

The Downton Abby show writers give a little wink to the real Earl of Carnarvon by writing into the fictional character, Lord Grantham’s love of Egypt. In the beloved series, the Crawley family dog’s name was Tiaa.

Lady Edith would go on to point out that all the dogs had Egyptian names. “Tiaa was Amenhotep II’s wife and Thutmose IV’s mother. Don’t you know anything?”

This wasn’t the first time the show integrated the Castle’s real history with the show. Highclere Castle was used as a hospital during World War I, as portrayed in the show.

It was the real-life Lady Carnarvon who worked as both a nurse and administrator.

Learn about The Earl and the Pharaoh

This newly published book written by The Countess of Carnarvon, tells the exciting details of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun and the life of family ancestor George Herbert, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon.

On the 100th anniversary of this incredible discovery, Lady Carnarvon in a highly-rated novel pays tribute to the extraordinary life of The Earl.

Learn all the history relating to the home of the Earl of Carnarvon, Highclere Castle, and his part in this amazing discovery.

Fiona, the Countess of Carnarvon, lives at Highclere Castle, which is her private home with the Carnarvon family.

How to Visit Highclere Castle

You can visit Highclere Castle on a self-guided tour, like I did, by buying tickets directly from the official website. Please note you will need to register as a user on the website (free) before being able to buy your tickets.

There are many special events hosted at the Castle that you want to make note of. Not every ticket will grant you admission to the interior of Highclere Castle or the Egyptian Exhibition.

The castle’s website has a lot of information. Go to the Tickets page and scroll through the openings to choose your visit.

There is typically a public fall, spring, winter, and summer opening, as well as private tours of the castle.

I recommend the Castle tour, including the Egyptian Exhibition, Gardens & Afternoon tea.

Ticket Prices for Highclere Castle & Eygptian Exhibition

The castle offers morning tickets and afternoon tickets. Below are the prices I found on the official website.

As you can see from the ticket prices below, the extra cost to visit the castle, including the Egyptian Exhibit, is definitely worth it.

*Subject to Change, check the official website for more details

Opening Times & Public Transportation

The are three admission times when visiting the Castle. Morning admission is between 10 am to 12:30 pm, Midday admission is from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, and afternoon admission 2:30 pm to 4 Pm.

Getting to the castle by public transportation is not fully possible. You can take the train to Newbury Railway Station, but then you need to take a taxi to the castle.

From the train to the castle, it’s a 15-minute taxi away. Or you can take the train from London Waterloo to Andover and then 20-minute taxi.

There is no Uber in this part of England, so when you get to Newbury station, you must call for a taxi.

Downton Abbey Fan Tour

As a die-hard fan of the TV series Downton Abbey, nothing was more magical than touring the Downton Abbey house! It was a huge bucket list item of mine that I sincerely hope all fans can check off!

Visiting the real Downton Abbey filming locations is easier than you think. Several companies are making a day trip to Highclere castle if you don’t want to go self-guided.

I like this tour the best. It is highly reviewed and perfect for anyone visiting and staying in central London.

This tour includes your transportation to and from London, entry to the castle itself, and a professional tour guide! This tour does not include lunch, which will be at your own expense.

Also included on the day tour is a guided tour of the Cotswolds Village! The same town you see in the show.

Imagine walking through the drawing room, dining room, smoking room, and music room of your favorite show!

You will also tour some of the bedrooms and Highclere’s gardens. On winter tours, the gardens will be less impressive than in summer.

If you are visiting during the holiday season, be sure to try some festive gluhwein served next to the gift shop.

>> BOOK DOWNTON ABBEY DAY TOUR

Best Tips to Visit Highclere Castle

Please keep in mind the following when booking your trip to Highclere Castle!

1. Book your tickets months in advance. There is a limited quantity and it’s very popular.
2. Wear shoes you are comfortable walking in. The grounds and secret garden are a lot to explore on foot.
3. If you feel inclined, bring a picnic and spend the day there! They do have a cafeteria on-site, but when I visited there were very limited healthy options. No options for vegans.
4. Don’t bring a large bag, you won’t be able to bring it in.
5. You will not be able to get interior photos, just exterior shots.
6. Some special areas can only be entered on a guided tour, so book in advance.
7. The weather can be unpredictable, plan accordingly

FAQ’s