Downton Abbey Private Cotswolds Tour with Highclere Castle

Cogges Manor Farm doubles up as Yew Tree Farm in Downton Abbey. Originally home to Mr and Mrs Drew, who take in Lady Edith’s illegitimate daughter Marigold, Yew Tree Farm is now in the hands of Daisy’s father-in-law Mr Mason. Seen throughout series 4, 5 and 6 of Downton Abbey, this location is very close to all our guides hearts and plays a significant part in Lady Edith’s storyline.

When at Cogges, you will see the Manor farm with the rooms and grounds used throughout Downton Abbey and learn the history of Cogges Manor Farm. You will also have time to watch Cogges’ own behind the scenes production documentary and enjoy some of the light refreshments available.

The Swan Pub in Swinbrook is one of the best pubs in the country. Sadly, due to time limits on the tour, we cannot stop here for any length of time. It’s still worth a visit as this is the pub that Branson and Lady Sybil elope to in series 2. It also has aristocratic links of its own, having been a favourite of the late Dowager Duchess of Devonshire (the late Deborah Cavendish, nee Freeman-Mitford) who grew up in the nearby Asthall.

The beautiful village of Shilton is complete with a forded river, cottages that date back hundreds of years and a historic pub. It’s no surprise that the producers of Downton Abbey decided to film a brief but memorable sequence here. Standing in for the Yorkshire village of Kirkbymoorside, this idyllic village was seen in season 2 of Downton Abbey when Anna discovers where Mr Bates has been working after he leaves Downton.

Bampton is seen as Downton Village throughout six seasons and one film of Downton Abbey. We will visit the village hospital, which in reality is the local library and a visitor centre. The local church is where Lady Mary marries both Matthew and Henry Talbot, and where Edith is both jilted at the altar and marries the man of her dreams – Bertie Pelham. Discover Crawley House where Matthew and his mother Isabell live, and of course, the Grantham Arms and Dog and Duck Pubs – which are private, not public houses.

While in the village, your guide will tell you all about the filming for Downton Abbey, how the local community has responded to being constantly flooded with visitors from across the world and assist you in taking as many Downton themed photos as you can.

Highclere Castle is famous throughout the world as the real Downton Abbey. Used as one of the main filming locations for the hit TV series and film, this gorgeous stately home is a must-see for any fan of the series or anyone interested in exploring one of the most beautiful stately homes in England.

Currently home to the 8th Earl of Carnarvon and his family, the House is open for a limited period every year throughout the spring and summer. Upon arrival at Highclere, your guide will secure your entry to the House and Grounds and enable you to see everything the House has to offer.

Once inside the house, you will see the rooms on the ground and first floor, which are seen in Downton Abbey. You can also visit the Egypt exhibit, which charts the 5th Earl’s exploits with the famous Egyptologist Howard Carter and their discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun. Finally, you will have time to explore the stunning grounds before returning home.