Downton Abbey Returns

Beyond the big screen

Three years in the making, Downton Abbey finally hits the big screen. If you didn't make it down to Leicester Square for the star-studded movie premiere, there are still ways to celebrate Downton's highly anticipated return:

. . . . Visit the "real" Downton Abbey and and Drawing Room of Lady Violet:

Highclere Castle (Newbury) — Highclere Castle was designed by architect Charles Barry best known for building the Houses of Parliament. The Castle is used for exterior and most of the interior shots. Tickets book up quickly. However, they have a limited number of 'walk-up' tickets on each Public Opening day. I haven't known anyone who hasn't been able to purchase these. It is worth a try - even if it means seeing the 'country house' set on a 5,000-acre estate at a distance.
Bonus : Book afternoon at the Coach House before or after your tour for £30/person
www.highclerecastle.co.uk+44 1635 253210
Highclere Castle, Highclere Park, Newbury RG20 9RN

Byfleet Manor (West Byfleet) — Located closer in is Byfleet Manor, also known as Dowager Violet's house in the Downton Abbey. Book afternoon tea in the Downton Room, the Drawing Room of Lady Violet. The traditional tea includes a selection of homemade finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and selection of cakes and pastries. Our visit included a talk about the filming that takes place there and a walk around the gardens, complete with a river and island.
www.byfleetmanor.com
Byfleet Manor, West Byfleet, Surrey KT14 7RS

. . . . Surround yourself with all that glitters and gleams

The Silver Vaults (London) — The Silver Vaults is the world's largest retail collection of silver. Behind safe doors and within its vaulted walls are 30 specialty shops featuring designs and objects from around the globe. Pieces date from the 16th century to today and include tableware, cutlery, decorative pieces, gifts, jewelry, watches and more. Film A-listers, rock stars and royalty have all shopped here. In fact, Downton Abbey's Mr. Carson, Lady Edith, Lady Rosamund and Mrs. Hughes took part in a charity shopping evening featuring a Downton-inspired exhibition of silver pieces.

. . . . Enjoy a cuppa tea or shot of gin from the comfort of your own home

Across the pond in the US, The Republic of Tea based in California is known for packaging loose leaf teas and tea bags in cylinder-shaped tins.  The Downton inspired teas features some of the favorite characters from the show, including Lord & Lady Grantham, Mary and Violet, Mr. and Mrs. Bates and Mr. Carson.

Residents of Highclere Castle, Lord and Lady Carnavon, along American entrepreneur Adam Von Gootkin recently launched Highclere Castle Gin. The gin is produced at The Langley Distillery, home to some of the oldest working copper gins in the UK.

Hint : It may be easier (and more affordable) to find these products in their respective countries of origin.

If the movie is even a fraction as successful as the TV series, I would book, purchase and visit early to avoid disappointment!

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