From Downton Abbey to Tutankhamun

Guided Tours
February 2025

Which extraordinary story most entrances you? Perhaps the on-screen journey of the Grantham family of Downton Abbey? Or maybe the real-life story of the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun by the 5^th Earl of Carnarvon and Howard Carter. We have recently celebrated the centenary of the discovery of the tomb in 1922, in which was found the iconic golden mask now recognised around the world. Paired with the global spectacle of Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle’s own silhouette has become well known and loved.

Join us in the Saloon, at the heart of the Castle and enjoy a guided tour through the State Rooms and galleried Bedrooms. Our guides have exceptional knowledge of the building, works of art and furniture as well as a treasury of anecdotes.

Afterwards, travel back in time and descend down the old servants’ stairs into the Castle cellars to explore the Egyptian Exhibition. In 1922, in what could be considered the world’s first global media event, Lord Carnarvon, with other leading Egyptologists of the day, Egyptian officials and much of the world’s press gathered outside the unremarkable entrance to the tomb of a minor pharaoh to experience the discovery of the richest Egyptian burial ever found.

After the tour, enjoy a selection of complimentary refreshments in the Coach House Tearooms from homemade soup, quiches, delicious mini cakes and other dishes depending on the season and chef's choice.
 








 

Adult and Disabled tickets are available at £140 per person to include the guided tour of the Castle, entry to the Egyptian Exhibition, delicious homemade refreshments as well as a signed copy of Lady Carnarvon’s latest book “The Earl and the Pharaoh”. Carer tickets (to accompany a disabled ticketholder) and Child tickets (4-16 years) are available at £85. Please note that Child tickets do not include a book.

The dress code for the event is smart/casual. Please wear sensible footwear for the Gardens. Note, we cannot guarantee that refreshments served are either Dairy-Free or Nut-Free. We are able to offer a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free option for these tours, please email theoffice@highclerecastle.co.uk in advance of your visit to reserve.

Your tour will commence promptly at the time stated on your tickets, please make your way to the front door of the Castle as follows:

• Morning guided tours begin at 10:30am
  (Gather by the Castle front door at 10.20am)
• Afternoon guided tours begin at 1:30pm 
  (Gather by the Castle front door at 1.20pm)

If you choose the afternoon tour, please arrive an hour early to walk around the Gardens. If you choose the morning tour, please take the time to enjoy the Gardens after the tour. 

Your gift (signed book) will be available for collection from the Castle Gift Shop. Please do not forget to collect this during your visit, as we cannot post this on.

Please note, the gates to the Castle and Grounds close promptly at 4pm as dusk is still early at this time of year.