Highclere Castle Tours and Activities

Highclere Castle featuring landscape views and heritage architecture
Highclere Castle showing interior views, art and heritage elements
Highclere Castle which includes interior views, a house and heritage elements
Highclere Castle showing interior views and heritage elements
Highclere Castle featuring heritage elements and a park

Visit this stately home which is also the setting of the acclaimed BBC drama Downtown Abbey. Appreciate its grandeur, beauty and expansive grounds.

The impressive Highclere Castle is among the country’s most famous castles and stately homes, mainly due to it being the setting for the acclaimed period drama Downton Abbey. Take a step not just back in time, but into a movie set and see its ornate décor and beautiful rolling grounds. The house is the family seat of the Carnavon family.

Highclere Castle is first and foremost a home, although much of it has been opened to the public in recent years. The 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon proudly show off their family’s heritage through a series of events ranging from open days to specialist guided tours and charity galas. Book early to take part in any of these memorable events.

The castle is undoubtedly impressive in its décor. The saloon, at the heart of the house, is adorned in a Gothic style, with rich decoration and leather wall hangings from Cordoba, Spain, which date back to 1631.

Wander through the state dining room to see Van Dyck's great equestrian portrait of Charles I, and then continue on into the library. The library played an important role in Downton Abbey, and fans of the show will feel a familiarity with the house as they explore.

The bedrooms, too, featured in the hit drama. Some, such as the Arundel bedroom, were also used as an operating room during World War I when the castle became a military hospital. It would later serve as a home for evacuee children from London.

It is the great hall and two grand staircases, however, that are the castle’s true showstoppers. Walk slowly down the staircases and enjoy the feeling of being aristocratic.

Highclere Castle is in the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a short distance from Newbury. Try to drive here, as access by public transportation is limited. There is a vast car park for ticketholders.

The castle is open on specific days only and tickets must be purchased well in advance from the website.

Plan a trip to see Highclere Castle

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel & SPA

Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel & SPA

4 out of 5
London City Centre
Price was AU$3,129, price is now AU$2,572 per person
AU$2,572
per person
8 Oct - 12 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Melbourne (MEL) to London (LHR)
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,128 reviews)
We had a great stay at the property. It was clean and felt safe although some of the decor needs a little update/maintenance. My daughter loved the swimming pool but we were disappointed that the sauna was out of service and could not be used. The surrounding area was fantastic, shops and food halls near rhe plan station were brilliant. Easy to get to central london. Staff were friendly and accommodating. The room was a little noisy (due to being close to lifts and other guests) but we managed to get sleep Would recommend and would stay again

Reviewed on 6 Aug. 2025

Corinthia London

Corinthia London

5 out of 5
London City Centre
Price was AU$4,915, price is now AU$3,345 per person
AU$3,345
per person
20 Oct - 23 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Melbourne (MEL) to London (LHR)
9.8/10 Exceptional! (1,002 reviews)
Wow - This hotel is magnificent! Exceptional service, fantastic doorman, luxurious rooms and spa! Definitely recommend.

Reviewed on 18 Aug. 2025

The Langham, London

The Langham, London

5 out of 5
London City Centre
Price was AU$3,873, price is now AU$2,889 per person
AU$2,889
per person
25 Oct - 28 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return direct flight included
Melbourne (MEL) to London (LHR)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,000 reviews)
5 star service all the way!!!

Reviewed on 16 Aug. 2025

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Top Highclere Castle Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Things to do near Highclere Castle

While visiting Highclere Castle, you can enjoy a range of activities nearby, including relaxing at a spa, taking a dip in the swimming pool, or hitting the fairways at a local golf course. These options provide a perfect blend of leisure and entertainment, ensuring a delightful experience during your stay in this historic area.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, Viables Crafts Centre is 20.9km away, offering unique handmade gifts. For a larger shopping experience, Broad Street Mall, 30.6km away, features various shops and entertainment options. Bakers Yard, 29.0km away, is perfect for family-friendly shopping vibes.

Recreation

At Bradfield College Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes, just 19.3km from Highclere Castle. Wokefield Park Golf Club, located 24.1km away, offers a similar outdoor golfing experience. For sports enthusiasts, Madejski Stadium, 29.0km away, hosts thrilling events to keep your adrenaline pumping.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of racing at Thruxton Motorsport Centre, located 22.5km from Highclere Castle, where you can feel the adrenaline on the track. For a fun-filled day, head to Bedlam Paintball in Newbury, 12.9km away, for an exhilarating paintball adventure amidst the outdoors.

Nightlife

For a memorable night near Highclere Castle, catch a show at The Anvil for a cultural experience, or enjoy a romantic evening at Theatre Royal Winchester. If you're after some family fun, 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park offers an exciting arcade adventure just a short distance away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle offers a range of attractions for visitors, including historic houses, nature reserves, and history museums. Ideal for those seeking culture, outdoor adventures, and family experiences, you can explore the grandeur of Highclere Castle, famous for its role in Downton Abbey. Located in Berkshire, a trip to Highclere Castle in Newbury promises a delightful blend of history and scenic beauty, perfect for a memorable vacation.

  • Donnington Castle: Explore the romantic ruins of Donnington Castle, located 9.7km from Highclere. This medieval fortress offers a glimpse into England’s storied past, set against picturesque countryside views, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • North Wessex Downs: Just 17.7km away, this stunning Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is ideal for those seeking solitude. Enjoy trendy walking trails and breathtaking landscapes, making it a fantastic escape into nature.
  • Shaw House: Situated 9.7km from Highclere, this historic gem showcases stunning architecture and rich culture. Take a guided tour to delve into its fascinating history and enjoy the tranquil gardens surrounding the house.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Highclere Castle

To save on your trip to Highclere Castle, consider visiting in January or October to November when accommodation prices are lower, particularly on Mondays. Avoid Saturdays for better rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter options by budget and choose eco-certified hotels for sustainable stays. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into an Expedia package to maximize savings. Don’t forget to look for free activities around the castle and utilise local public transport for affordable travel options.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Highclere Castle are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Highclere Castle is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Highclere Castle is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, adjust the price filter to sort from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Highclere Castle hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.