The Downton Abbey and Village Tour from London by Mini Coach offers a unique opportunity for fans of the beloved period drama to explore the iconic filming locations. With guided walking tours, self-guided exploration, and air-conditioned transportation, this immersive experience promises a hassle-free adventure. Whether you’re a long-time admirer or simply intrigued by the show’s enduring popularity, this tour provides an insider’s glimpse into the world of Downton that may just leave you craving more.
Key Points
- A 9-hour tour from central London that explores the filming locations of the Downton Abbey period drama.
- Guided walking tour of Bampton (Downton Village) and 3 hours of self-guided exploration at Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey).
- Transportation in an air-conditioned mini coach with live commentary about the show’s making and behind-the-scenes facts.
- Opportunities to buy lunch and souvenirs during the tour.
- Maximum group size of 30 travelers, providing an intimate group experience with interactions with the guide and fellow Downton fans.
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Tour Overview
This 9-hour tour from central London offers visitors the opportunity to explore the filming locations of the acclaimed period drama Downton Abbey.
The tour includes a guided walking tour of Bampton, the village that served as the setting for Downton Village, as well as 3 hours of self-guided exploration at Highclere Castle, the grand country estate that portrayed the fictional Downton Abbey.
With 90 positive reviews, the tour provides live commentary, an air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes covered.
Whether you’re a die-hard Downton fan or simply interested in the show’s captivating locations, this comprehensive tour promises an immersive experience that will transport you to the world of the beloved series.
Meeting Point
The tour departs from Flowers Inc, 138 Gloucester Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 4SF, UK, located near the Gloucester Road tube station. Travelers should arrive 10 minutes early, as the tour will leave promptly at the scheduled time. The guide will be waiting outside the flower shop, ready to greet the group.
| Meeting Point | |
|---|---|
| Location | Flowers Inc, 138 Gloucester Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 4SF, UK |
| Transport | Gloucester Road tube station (Piccadilly, Circle and District Lines) |
| Arrival | 10 minutes early |
Travelers can expect a smooth start to their Downton Abbey experience by arriving on time and meeting the guide at the designated location.
Tour Itinerary
Once the group gathers at the meeting point, they board the bus and listen to the guide’s commentary about the show’s making and behind-the-scenes facts.
The journey then takes them through Oxfordshire to the village of Bampton, which stands in as Downton Village in the show. There, they embark on a guided walking tour, seeing familiar sights such as Matthew’s house, the post office, and the church.
Afterward, the tour heads to Highclere Castle, where travelers are provided with a self-guide leaflet for 3 hours of free time to explore the castle and its grounds. They’ll find places to buy lunch and souvenirs before the group returns to central London for drop-off at the end of the day.
What’s Included
For this tour, travelers receive live commentary on board, a professional guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes. Lunch and hotel pickup/drop-off are also included.
The tour offers:
- A guided walking tour of Bampton, the filming location for Downton Village, where visitors can see familiar sights such as Matthew’s house, the post office, and the church.
- 3 hours of free time for a self-guided tour at Highclere Castle, the real-life Downton Abbey, with opportunities to buy lunch and souvenirs.
- Transportation via an air-conditioned vehicle with live commentary from the guide about the show’s making and behind-the-scenes facts.
- All taxes and fees covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Additional Information
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. It’s located near public transportation, and infants must sit on laps.
Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to join, and a moderate physical fitness level is required. The maximum group size is 30 travelers. Guests will receive confirmation at the time of booking.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or expecting mothers, as it involves a fair amount of walking. Travelers should ensure they’re in good physical condition to fully enjoy the experience.
The tour’s small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience exploring the iconic Downton Abbey locations.
Departure Time and Location
The tour departs from Flowers Inc, 138 Gloucester Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 4SF, UK, and travelers should arrive 10 minutes early as the bus leaves promptly.
The meeting point is at the Gloucester Road tube station, which services the Piccadilly, Circle, and District lines. There, the guide will be waiting outside the flower shop.
Attendees can look forward to:
- Boarding the air-conditioned bus and enjoying the guide’s live commentary about the show’s making and behind-the-scenes facts.
- Journeying through Oxfordshire to the filming location of Bampton Village.
- Embarking on a guided walking tour of the familiar sights from the series.
- Spending 3 hours exploring the iconic Highclere Castle at their own pace.
Duration and Distance
The tour encompasses a 9-hour round-trip journey from central London, covering the approximately 90-mile distance to the Downton Abbey filming locations in Oxfordshire.
Guests will travel in an air-conditioned mini coach, arriving first in the village of Bampton, which served as the setting for Downton Village in the popular television series.
After a guided walking tour of the quaint town, the group will head to the impressive Highclere Castle, the real-life location of Downton Abbey.
Visitors will have 3 hours to explore the castle and grounds at their own pace, taking in the grand interiors and lush gardens seen in the show.
Group Size
Maximum of 30 travelers allows for an intimate group experience on this tour of Downton Abbey filming locations.
The small group size means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to interact with your knowledgeable guide and fellow Downton fans.
The tour experience includes:
- A guided walking tour of the quaint village of Bampton, the real-life Downton Village.
- 3 hours of free time to explore the grand Highclere Castle, the filming location for Downton Abbey.
- Live commentary throughout the journey, providing behind-the-scenes insights and fascinating details about the show’s production.
- An air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable and hassle-free journey from central London.
This intimate group setting ensures a personalized and immersive Downton Abbey experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide any meals, so bringing snacks and beverages is recommended, especially for the self-guided portion at Highclere Castle.
Are Audio Guides Available at Highclere Castle?
According to the tour overview, self-guided audio tours are provided at Highclere Castle, allowing visitors to explore the castle at their own pace during the 3-hour free time allotted on the tour.
Is the Bus Equipped With Wi-Fi and Power Outlets?
The tour bus is not explicitly stated to have WiFi or power outlets. As details about the bus amenities are not provided in the tour overview, it’s unclear if these features are available on the tour.
Can I Take Pictures Inside Highclere Castle?
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Highclere Castle. Visitors can take pictures during the self-guided tour, though they should avoid using flash to respect the historic building and other guests’ experiences.
Is There a Storage Facility for Luggage on the Bus?
The tour bus does not offer any storage facility for luggage. Passengers should plan to carry their belongings with them throughout the day as the tour does not provide space for large items or suitcases.
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Recap
The Downton Abbey and Village Tour from London by Mini Coach offers a unique and immersive experience for fans.
With guided walking tours, self-guided exploration at Highclere Castle, and hassle-free transportation, this tour provides an opportunity to step into the world of the beloved period drama.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to explore the filming locations of Downton Abbey.
