Wintertime Castle Guided Tours 

January 2025

Experience a special Guided Tour of Highclere Castle, known to millions as the set of the much-loved Downton Abbey TV series and films. 

While steeped in rich and varied history, Highclere Castle also retains the warmth and welcome of a much-loved family home. Join us for these special guided tours, with just three groups of approximately 20 guests which ensures you enjoy a unique and intimate experience.

Guests will begin their visit in the Saloon, the heart of the Castle. Your guided tour will take you through the beautiful State Rooms and upstairs to the Galley Bedrooms. Our guides have exceptional knowledge of the building, works of art and furniture, with plenty of anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories to share.

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.

You are then welcome to enjoy a selection of refreshments from our Tearooms, including homemade soups, quiches, delicious mini cakes and other dishes, depending on the season and chef's choice.

We are able to offer gluten-free and vegetarian options for these refreshments. To reserve, please contact theoffice@highclerecastle.co.uk in advance of your visit. Please note, we are unable to ensure that products served are either dairy-free or nut-free, nor are we able to accommodate swaps or requests on individual menu items.

Tickets are £140 per person, which include a guided tour of the Castle, entry to the Egyptian Exhibition and time to explore the Gardens.

Your ticket includes complimentary refreshments and a complimentary signed copy of Lady Carnarvon’s book “Seasons at Highclere”. Please do remember to collect your signed book from the Gift Shop during your visit as we will not be able to post these on after the event.

Morning Tours begin at 10:30am, please gather at the Castle front doors for 10:20am. You are welcome to arrive from 10:00am. 

Afternoon Tours begin at 1:30pm, please gather at the Castle front doors for 1:20pm. You are welcome to arrive from 12:30pm. 

Guests are also welcome to visit the Gift Shop and explore the Gardens at leisure. Please note that the gates to the Castle and Grounds close promptly at 4:00pm, due to earlier sunsets at this time of year.

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