From London: Day Trip To Downton Abbey, Oxford And Bampton

Fans of the beloved period drama "Downton Abbey" won’t want to miss the chance to enjoy the world they’ve come to know and love. This captivating day trip from London offers a unique opportunity to explore the iconic settings that have captured the hearts of viewers worldwide. From the charming village of Bampton to the stately grandeur of Highclere Castle, the tour promises a captivating journey through the history and allure of this cherished series. However, the true delight lies in the details – the personal stories, the insider insights, and the chance to truly feel transported to a bygone era.

Key Points

This day trip from London offers a comprehensive exploration of the iconic settings from the period drama ‘Downton Abbey’.
The tour includes a guided walking tour of historic Oxford, visiting the charming Bampton village, and touring the grand Highclere Castle.
Participants receive a complimentary copy of Lady Carnarvon’s autobiography as a memento of the experience.
The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who provides captivating insights into the sites and their connection to ‘Downton Abbey’.
The tour includes air-conditioned luxury coach transportation and is conveniently departing from the Victoria Coach Station in London.

Tour Overview

This day trip from London whisks travelers away to the charming English countryside, offering a comprehensive exploration of iconic settings from the beloved period drama ‘Downton Abbey’ as well as the historic city of Oxford.

Over the course of 10 hours, a live tour guide leads the journey, sharing captivating insights along the way.

Highlights include a walking tour of Oxford’s storied university buildings, a visit to the picturesque village of Bampton – the filming location for ‘Downton Abbey’ – and a guided tour of the grand Highclere Castle, the backdrop for the TV series.

As a special souvenir, each guest receives a copy of Lady Carnarvon’s autobiography, providing a personal memento of this immersive experience.

Tour Highlights

Travelers embark on a captivating walking tour of Oxford’s renowned university buildings, delving into the city’s rich academic heritage. They then venture to the picturesque village of Bampton, the principal filming location for the beloved ‘Downton Abbey’ television series, seeing the quaint settings that brought the show to life. The highlight of the day culminates with a guided tour of the grand Highclere Castle, the iconic backdrop for ‘Downton Abbey,’ where guests explore the opulent rooms and corridors featured in the series.

Highlight	Description
Oxford Walking Tour	Discover the historic buildings and heritage of this prestigious university town.
Bampton Village	Step into the charming village that served as the backdrop for ‘Downton Abbey.’
Highclere Castle	Explore the stately rooms and corridors that hosted the acclaimed television series.
Lady Carnarvon’s Book	Receive a complimentary copy of the castle owner’s autobiography as a memento.
Live Tour Guide	Engage with a knowledgeable guide who brings the sites to life.

Tour Inclusions

For this captivating day trip, guests can expect a comprehensive package that includes a walking tour of the historic Oxford University buildings, an immersive visit to the charming Bampton village, and a guided exploration of the iconic Highclere Castle – the filming location for the beloved Downton Abbey series.

Plus, travelers receive a complimentary copy of Lady Carnarvon’s autobiography as a cherished souvenir, and all transportation is provided via an air-conditioned luxury coach.

The knowledgeable guide brings each location to life, offering fascinating insights and anecdotes throughout the journey. This all-inclusive experience promises an unforgettable window into Britain’s rich cultural heritage and the enchanting world of Downton Abbey.

Meeting Point

At the crack of dawn, guests depart from the conveniently located Victoria Coach Station, situated just a stone’s throw away from the Victoria train station, as they embark on their captivating journey to Oxford, Bampton, and Highclere Castle.

After checking in at 8:00 AM, visitors board the air-conditioned luxury coach, eager to discover the secrets of Downton Abbey and explore the historic university town of Oxford.

With a live tour guide leading the way, the day promises to be a delightful blend of immersive experiences, from strolling through the charming Bampton village to touring the grand halls of Highclere Castle, the iconic filming location of the beloved TV series.

Important Information

While the tour’s itinerary is designed to maximize the day’s adventures, it remains subject to potential changes as needed. Guests should note that refunds are generally unavailable unless the tour operator can resell the ticket, and gratuities for the guide aren’t included in the tour price.

Plus, the visit to Bampton village, a highlight for many Downton Abbey fans, can’t be guaranteed in the event of scheduled local activities.

Despite these caveats, the tour offers a well-crafted experience, seamlessly blending the charming historic towns of Oxford and Bampton with the grandeur of Highclere Castle. Travelers can enjoy the world of Downton Abbey while enjoying the convenience of a guided coach excursion from London.

Exploring Oxford

The day trip begins with a captivating walking tour through the historic streets of Oxford, where guests explore the iconic university buildings and enjoy the city’s rich academic heritage.

Along the way, they’ll marvel at the striking Gothic architecture of Christ Church College, the oldest teaching and research institution in the English-speaking world. They’ll wander the cobblestone alleyways, passing by hidden courtyards and quaint cafes serving up quintessential British fare.

At the Bodleian Library, guests step into the grand reading rooms that have inspired scholars for centuries. This immersion in Oxford’s timeless elegance sets the stage for the day’s other enchanting discoveries.

Visiting Bampton

Next, the tour heads to the charming village of Bampton, where many exterior scenes for the beloved TV series ‘Downton Abbey’ were filmed. Visitors wander the quaint streets, soaking in the quintessential English countryside atmosphere that provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s grand estate. They’ll spot familiar landmarks like the village church, the local pub, and other locations that served as the backdrop for the Crawley family’s everyday lives.

During the visit, guests can:

Explore the historic church where Lady Edith was set to marry
Stroll past the Grantham Arms pub, the village’s central gathering spot
Visit the village green and admire the charming stone cottages
Imagine the characters bustling about the streets as they stop for a pint or run their errands

Touring Highclere Castle

After exploring the charming village of Bampton, the tour arrives at the grand Highclere Castle, the actual filming location for the beloved series ‘Downton Abbey’.

Guests marvel at the castle’s imposing façade, instantly recognizable from the show, and eagerly anticipate stepping inside to discover the opulent interiors that played host to the Crawley family and their staff.

The guided tour takes visitors through the lavish drawing rooms, the grand staircase, and the ornate bedchambers, bringing the Downton Abbey experience to life.

Highlights include the library, the sitting room, and the servant’s quarters, all exquisitely preserved and meticulously maintained.

Guests depart with a renewed appreciation for the world of aristocratic British life depicted in the beloved television series.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside Highclere Castle?

Guests are permitted to take photographs inside Highclere Castle, the iconic filming location of Downton Abbey. Visitors can capture the grandeur of the interiors and exteriors to commemorate their tour experience at this historic English estate.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but visitors are encouraged to dress comfortably and respectfully. Casual wear like jeans, t-shirts, and comfortable walking shoes are suitable. Guests should avoid overly casual or athletic attire for the historic sites.

Are There Any Stops for Food or Restrooms During the Day?

The tour includes breaks throughout the day for participants to enjoy local cuisine and use restroom facilities. Travelers can purchase snacks and meals at various stops, allowing them to refuel and refresh during the scenic sightseeing excursion.

Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs at Highclere Castle?

Visitors can purchase a variety of souvenirs at Highclere Castle, including books, clothing, and trinkets related to the Downton Abbey TV series and the castle’s history. Shoppers can browse the castle’s gift shop for unique mementos of their visit.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children or Families?

This tour may be suitable for families with older children interested in history and TV/film sites. The walking and castle tour could be tiring for younger kids, but the Downton Abbey connection may engage them. Check age recommendations before booking.