A Quintessential Downton Abbey Experience
11 days from £3,800 / $4,865 per person
A chronicle of the lives of the British aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the early 20th century, Downton Abbey has become an iconic television series and fascination for many people the world over. It conveniently provides the perfect backdrop for an exploration of the most beautiful, iconic and interesting properties across the UK. With particular attention to historical detail, World War One and quintessential Englishness, our Downton Abbey itinerary is not just for those who know their Lady Sybil from their Lady Edith. Although we make sure to visit the obligatory ‘Downton Village’ of Bampton and the Grantham House situated in Basildon Park, this itinerary also stops at the regal Blenheim Palace and quaint Swinbrook Inn - also the location of Lady Sybil’s romantic elopement to the chauffeur Tom Branson.
From London to Loch Lomond, via the picturesque English countryside, our ten day Downton Abbey tour takes you around our favourite and must-see spots to experience life in the style of Lord Grantham and the Crawley family. Starting in the unbeatable city of London and taking in the sites of Oxfordshire, the Cotswolds, Berkshire, Sussex and even the majesty of Loch Lomond, you will finish this itinerary feeling like a truly gentrified member of society.
This luxury tour is purely a suggested itinerary. It can be booked as is or alternatively used as a starting point for creating your own perfect bespoke holiday.
Itinerary details
11 days from £3,800 / $4,865 per person
- Day 1 - The Connaught - London
Arrive in London. Morning walking tour including Downton Abbey sites of Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Eaton Square and the Albert Memorial. Afternoon tea at The Ritz and visit to Syon Park. Evening at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club. - Day 2 - The Connaught - London
Morning visit to St Pancras Station followed by the Imperial War Museum to learn about Matthew Crawley's life on the frontline. Lunch at The Criterion restaurant before visiting Fortnum & Masons department store. Afternoon Downton Walking Tour of London, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. Evening dinner at Rules Restaurant. - Day 3 - Le Manoir Aux Quat'Saisons - Oxford
Morning drive to Oxfordshire via Greys Court and the village of Bampton, both featured in Downton Abbey. - Day 4 - Le Manoir Aux Quat'Saisons - Oxford
Full day Oxford sightseeing, especially Oxford University that was the alma mater for the Crawley gentlemen. - Day 5 - Lower Slaughter Manor - The Cotswolds
Morning drive to the Cotswolds via Hidcote Manor and Blenheim Palace, including lunch at the Swinbrook Inn - site of Lady Sybil's elopement. - Day 6 - Lower Slaughter Manor - The Cotswolds
Full day Cotswold sightseeing, including Highclere Castle, the titular home of the Crawley Family. - Day 7 - Cliveden House - Berkshire
Morning drive to Cliveden House via Basildon Park, the 18th century filming location of Grantham House in Downton Abbey. - Day 8 - Gravetye Manor - Sussex
Drive to Gravetye Manor, via Byfleet Manor, also known as The Dower House, to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the Downton Room. - Day 9 - Cameron House - Loch Lomond
Fly from London to Glasgow. Transfer to Cameron House. - Day 10 - Cameron House - Loch Lomond
Full day sightseeing around Inverary Castle and Loch Fyne - on of the few locations where filming for Downton Abbey took place outside of England. - Day 11 - The Connaught - London
Fly from Glasgow back to London.
I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list.
Susan Sontag