Early Evening Guided Castle Tours

We are delighted to welcome guests for a special evening guided tour of Highclere Castle in April and June this year.

Whilst known to millions as the set of the Downton Abbey TV series and films, Highclere retains the warmth and welcome of a much-loved family home. On these special tours, guests will have the exclusive opportunity to tour the Castle in small groups with our knowledgeable guides, to discover the charm of Highclere in an intimate setting.

Guests are invited for a welcome in the Saloon, at the heart of the Castle, to enjoy a refreshing glass of Highclere Castle Champagne. Afterwards, your guided tour will take you through the spectacular State Rooms before travelling upstairs to discover the Gallery Bedrooms, showcasing the very best of Highclere’s on-screen appearances.

Our experienced guides have exceptional knowledge of all of Highclere’s details, from the building itself, to the exceptional artwork and interiors, as well as plenty of anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories to share.

Imagine yourself as the Dowager Lady Grantham in the green Drawing Room or walk down the Oak Staircase just like Lady Mary or Lord Grantham. 

After your tour, you will descend to the cellars to explore the Egyptian Exhibition. This fascinating Exhibition tells the story of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun and contains antiquities from the earlier tombs in the Valley of the Nobles and Valley of the Queens.

The 5^th Earl of Carnarvon and Howard Carter spent some 16 years working in Egypt before discovering a sealed door and the incredible 3,500-year-old royal tomb within.

If you would like to visit the Gardens during your visit, please do so before your tour begins, the Grounds will open from 4pm.  From the Secret Garden to the Rose Arbour, we hope you will enjoy all the nature that Highclere has to offer. We very much hope you will take the time to visit the irresistible Gift Shop during your visit. Your tickets will also include a copy of Lady Carnarvon’s book “Seasons at Highclere” which you will collect on the day. 

Tickets are £140 per person and include a guided tour of the Castle, a complimentary glass of Champagne, a copy of “Seasons at Highclere” written by Lady Carnarvon, as well as access to the Gardens. A non-alcoholic alternative will be available for guests upon request. 

Carer tickets (1 per paying, registered disabled visitor) and children’s tickets (ages 4-16) are also available at £85.

The Gardens will open at 4pm for visitors and Early Evening Tours will begin promptly at 5pm (please gather by the Castle Front Door at 4:50pm). On these dates, the Grounds will close promptly at 7:00pm.

The dress code for this event is smart. Please wear sensible footwear for the Gardens.