If you are a Downton Abbey fan, you’ve already walked through the doors of Highclere Castle while watching the beloved TV series. You can almost hear Carson’s footsteps in the dining room, see Lady Mary descending the staircase, or picture the Crawleys enjoying a stroll in the gardens. So many unforgettable moments live here: Christmas dinners, secret exchanges in the Library, even the solemnity of Sunday service in the chapel. This month’s television series, Highclere - The Real Downton Abbey, on Together TV, takes you behind the scenes to reveal what it really takes to keep this remarkable estate running day to day, from the dedicated staff to the centuries of tradition that shape life inside its walls. Highclere is more than the set of a much-loved drama; it is history, it is a story, and it is the world of Lord and Lady Grantham brought to life.

A Thousand Years of History 

Highclere’s story goes back over a thousand years. From its beginnings as land owned by the Bishops of Winchester to its reinvention by Sir Charles Barry in the 1800s, the castle has always been at the heart of British history. During World War I, it became a hospital, and in World War II it sheltered children evacuated from London. 

Highclere Castle (Episode 2 of Highclere - The Real Downton Abbey)

Behind the Scenes: Downton Abbey Filming

Highclere’s interiors bring Downton Abbey to life. Step inside and you’ll instantly recognise the Library, the Drawing Room, and sweeping staircases. These are the rooms where Lady Mary and Matthew shared glances, Edith faced dramatic moments, and the Dowager Countess delivered her unforgettable lines. Highclere has around 300 rooms in total - some of which you’ll spot in the Together TV series, Highclere - The Real Downton Abbey. 

Highclere Library (Episode 4 of Highclere - The Real Downton Abbey)

Enjoy The Immersive Experience 

 Highclere offers more than a walk through film history. You can enjoy an afternoon tea in the castle’s tearooms. This experience blends modern comfort with the elegance of the 19th-century estate designed by Sir Charles Barry. If you are unable to travel to the castle, our television series Highclere - The Real Downton Abbey provides a way to explore the estate from afar. 

Explore Egypt Beneath the Castle

If you are familiar with the servants' quarters in the basement of Downton Abbey, you may not expect to find an Egyptian exhibition hidden in Highclere's cellars. The 5th Earl of Carnarvon, along with archaeologist Howard Carter, famously discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922. Today, replicas of the tomb’s treasures, including shrines, coffins, a mummy, and even a golden death mask, are displayed beneath the castle.  

Replica of Tutankhamun’s Tomb Found in Highclere’s Cellars (Episode 5 of Highclere - The Real Downton Abbey)

Why You Should Visit Highclere 

Highclere Castle is more than a Downton Abbey film location. It is a living tapestry of British history, from medieval origins to wartime resilience, from television stardom to Egyptian discovery. Whether you are drawn by beloved characters like Lady Mary, Highclere Castle delivers drama and discovery at every turn. Explore Highclere, check out the Together TV guide, or watch Highclere - The Real Downton Abbey live on Together TV.