If you’ve been following the Crawley family since Downton Abbey first screened back in 2010, then you’re probably eagerly awaiting the release of the film Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale in September. While the clock ticks down, why not immerse yourself in the world once more with a visit to some of the incredible filming locations that helped bring this beloved show to life?
Oh yes, the UK has played host to many films and TV shows, but few have gripped the hearts quite like Downton. Is it Dame Maggie Smith’s whip-smart portrayal of the Dowager Countess? The beautiful costumes that make you long for a wardrobe change? Or, is it the winsome locations and sets that transport you back in time and ignite a wonderful sense of escapism?
Whatever you love most about the show, let us take you on a journey back through its scenes with the very best Downton Abbey filming locations, from historic houses and castles to sweeping gardens and quaint villages. Although the film is set in an (albeit fictional) village in Yorkshire, you can find grand filming locations all across the country, making it wonderfully easy to scratch your Downton itch while out and about.
Don your best finery and arrange a carriage; it’s time to tour the best Downton Abbey filming locations in the UK.
Highclere Castle, Hampshire
Starting with a filming location that is so intrinsically linked with the series and films it should probably be on the cast list, Highclere Castle in Hampshire is the Downton Abbey filming location. Oh yes, this gorgeous 15th-century estate and parkland has been the face of the show since it began, lending its grand exterior and striking rooms to many scenes. Highclere Castle is open to the public at various times throughout the year, mostly around school holidays, and runs excellent tours that offer the chance to explore some of the most iconic rooms, including the fabulous state dining room that has stolen the spotlight in many a scene.
Bampton, Oxfordshire
With its golden buildings and quaint period features, Bampton was the perfect stand-in for a Yorkshire village while filming Downton Abbey. Various buildings were featured in the series, including Bampton Library, Churchgate House, and the beautiful St Mary’s Church. You’ll also recognise several streets and the pretty village green, all of which make appearances in the beloved show. Visit to wander around the honey-dipped streets or venture a little further and explore the Cotswolds National Landscape, which is home to many other filming locations, from Castle Combe to the historic Blenheim Palace.
Inveraray Castle, Argyll and Bute
There are many grand homes in Downton Abbey, but the home of Lord and Lady Flincher takes the biscuit (or should it be shortbread?). Filmed at the beautiful Inveraray Castle in Argyll and Bute, this Scottish landmark definitely sparked some wanderlust in the Christmas special when the Granthams visited family at Duneagle Castle. Rolling hills and a shimmering loch offer a stunning backdrop to your Downton-inspired visit, with the parkland promising a lovely place to explore with the pooch. Join a tour to explore the impressive interiors and follow in the footsteps of your favourite characters, or enjoy a pootle around the gardens before stopping by the tearoom for lunch (or you can picnic in the grounds like Anna and Bates!)
Horsted Keynes Station, Sussex
Other than Goathland Station in Yorkshire, which is famous for its role at Hogsmead Station in the Harry Potter films, Horsted Keynes is perhaps the most recognisable small-town station in the UK thanks to its appearances in The Woman in Black, Muppets Most Wanted, and, of course, Downton Abbey. If you want to really transport yourself to a bygone era, book a seat on the fabulous steam train with Bluebell Railway, which runs special events throughout the year, including fine dining luncheons, murder mysteries, and afternoon tea.
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland
Taking on the role of Brancaster Castle in two episodes of Downton Abbey, Alnwick Castle is another famous castle to play host to a film set or two. Appearing in the series five finale and a Christmas special, Alnwick Castle set quite a spectacular backdrop for a summer stay. Scenes were shot in the state rooms, the castle’s expansive grounds, and at nearby Hulne Park, making full use of Northumberland’s historic landmarks. When visiting, you might also recognise Alnwick Castle from other films and television series, including Black Adder and Harry Potter.
Beamish Museum, County Durham
What better way to transport viewers back in time than choosing an open-air museum as your backdrop? Oh yes, Beamish Museum is a fantastic town-wide demonstration of what life was like between 1900 and 1950, with beautifully restored houses and shops bringing the bygone decades to life. Both the first Downton Abbey film and Christmas special featured Beamish’s fabulous 1900s Town street, with trams and red-brick buildings adding some historical flair to the scenes.
Lacock, Wiltshire
With the Cotswolds National Landscape lending its honeyed charms to the pretty towns and villages, and the rolling hills that craft a truly idyllic countryside, it’s of little surprise that Wiltshire has enjoyed many starring roles over the years. Lacock village has enjoyed many on-screen appearances, with the oh-so-idyllic streets providing the perfect backdrop for several scenes in Downton Abbey. Wiltshire’s Bowood House and Gardens also featured in the show, with the parkland and one of the estate’s picturesque cottages taking centre stage.
Wentworth Woodhouse, Yorkshire
This oh-so-grand Georgian house is the pinnacle of Downton-esque style and grandeur. Wrapped in 87 acres of beautiful gardens and rolling parkland and boasting a spectacular interior, Wentworth Woodhouse in Yorkshire is home to many fabulous corners that could easily blend into an episode of Downton Abbey. The room that stole the show, though? The striking Marble Saloon, which hosted a magnificent ball in the first film. Explore the opulent house at your own pace during your visit and follow in the waltzing footsteps of Lady Mary, or join one of the guided tours to delve deeper into the fascinating histories of this luxurious estate.
Basildon Park, Berkshire
Another National Trust property to perfectly encapsulate Downton Abbey’s bygone setting, Basildon Park was a natural choice when scouting for historic houses to play the impressive home of the Crawleys. Taking on the role of Grantham House in the season five finale, the grandiose mansion was the perfect backdrop to an opulent wedding. Basildon Park is open to the public throughout the year, with the Palladian-style house, sprawling parkland and formal gardens crafting an exceptionally grand backdrop to your day out. Make a day of it with a visit to the on-site tearoom, or stop by the stableyard gift shop to pick up a holiday memento.
West Wycombe Park, Buckinghamshire
From the Palladian mansion to the landscaped grounds that hide lakes, follies, and beautiful sculptures within, West Wycombe Park in Buckinghamshire certainly has the right setting for film, with the likes of Bridgerton, The Duchess, and Downton Abbey making the most of the historic estate. In Downton Abbey, the sweeping estate featured as Lady Rosamund’s impressive home across three seasons. Run by the National Trust, you can visit this palatial filming location throughout the year. We recommend spending the day here, as the estate, village, and surrounding hills and woods are filled with numerous attractions and activities to enjoy.
Ready to live out your very own Downton Abbey adventure? Explore our beautiful holiday cottages across the UK and discover the many lavish locations that lent their spectacular settings to the television series and films. We even have a few Downton Abbey-inspired cottages to enjoy…
