Where was Downton Abbey Filmed?

With the Downton Abbey film set to hit UK screens on the 13th of September 2019, we have brought together some of the most historic, impressive and scenic Downton Abbey filming locations.

The TV show’s six series were a staple of Sunday evening viewing between 2010 – 2015 and showcased a wide range of Downton Abbey filming locations, from imposing castles and manor houses to traditional farm buildings. Visiting some of these Downton Abbey locations may just bring your favourite scenes back to life.

Find out 7 fantastic Downton Abbey filming locations below…

1. Highclere Castle, Hampshire

Those wondering where the Downton Abbey house is need to look no further than the majestic Highclere Castle, resting among the beauty of the North Wessex Downs AONB. This magnificent Downton Abbey filming location holds just as much elegance and authority as the series suggests, having been home to the family of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon since the late 1600s.

During the filming of Downton Abbey, the outdoor and upstairs scenes were filmed at this imposing Victorian country house. Those looking to get a feel for the Downton Abbey house up close can visit throughout the year; Highclere Castle is open for around 60-70 days, including the Easter Holidays and May Bank Holidays.

2. Bampton, Oxfordshire

Charming little Bampton, nestled among the countryside of Oxfordshire, poses as the village of Downton and is bound to bring your favourite scenes back to life when you visit. Walking past St Mary’s Church may just bring back memories of Mary and Matthew’s eventual wedding, while Bampton Library is also a common feature.

Bampton is more than worth an amble around, with its streets lined by charming stone buildings. Take advantage of a handful of quaint eateries, including a delightful little bakery and coffee shop.

3. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

Avid Downton fans may recognise Alnwick Castle under a different name, as it features in the Downton Abbey Christmas special as Brancaster Castle – where Lord Sinderby held his shooting party. As well as the palatial exterior and regal rooms inside the castle, the immaculate surrounding grounds were also used in filming.

You can now experience life at Downton Castle for yourself by visiting the exhibition at Alnwick Castle, boasting props and costumes used in the filming of the festive episode. Head to this excellent Downton Abbey filming location to get a true taste of life on set.

4. Inveraray Castle, Argyll and Bute

The cousins of the Grantham family reside in this fairytale castle, known as Duneagle Castle in the series, also used in the Christmas special. Find this beautiful Downton Abbey filming location in the Argyll & Bute area of Scotland, showcasing pristine gardens and interior décor fit for a king.

Get a feel for life in Downton Abbey by visiting Inveraray Castle and experiencing its elegance at first-hand, it’s open from 1st April-31st October and you can buy tickets online.

5. West Wycombe House, Buckinghamshire

This grand mansion in the Buckinghamshire countryside acts as the home of Lady Rosamund in Downton Abbey, where the Grantham girls turn to in times of trouble. West Wycombe House has been the site of much drama throughout the series, from illegitimate children to secret affairs.

This elegant Downton Abbey filming location can also be spotted in other British TV dramas, including Cranford. After visiting this stunning Downton Abbey set, climb the nearby West Wycombe Hill for magnificent rural views.

6. Cogges Manor Farm, Oxfordshire

Yew Tree Farm on Downton Abbey can be found in rural Oxfordshire, at the former working Cogges Manor Farm. Now an interesting heritage centre, the farm enjoyed numerous appearances in Downton Abbey, being the home of both Mr Drewe and Mr Mason.

To bring this Downton Abbey filming location to life, you can visit Cogges between March and November, from 10:00am-5:00pm. There is also a wonderful café on-site for some light refreshments.

7. Lancaster House, London

Lancaster House is arguably the most impressive Downton Abbey filming location, being the body double for Buckingham Palace in the 2013 Christmas Special. This regal Downton Abbey building is well-known as being one of the hidden gems of London.

Although Lancaster House is only available to visit for events, admiring its astounding exterior will offer a taste towards life in Downton Abbey.

Use our handy UK Travel Guides to plan your next adventure with Sykes

Have you been to any of these Downton Abbey filming locations? Tag us in your pictures on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram! Alternatively, be your own Lord or Lady of the manor with a stay at one of these properties that are a fit for a King! 

Image Credits: Launus – (CC BY-SA 4.0); Hugh Llewelyn – CC BY-SA 2.0; Jo Turner – CC BY-SA 2.0; Gary Campbell-Hall – CC BY 2.0; Rabbi WP Thinrod – CC BY-SA 2.0; Colin Smith – (CC BY-SA 2.0)