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Ready to tour Downton Abbey in the UK?
You’ve come to the right place, as we’re going to explore the best 11 Downton Abbey tours in the UK – all led by expert guides who want to share the best parts of this popular show and help you skip the tourist traps.
If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.
The best Downton Abbey tour in the UK is this Downton Abbey and Oxford Tour from London Including Highclere Castle.
It has about 500 amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.
⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?
The best Downton Abbey tour in the UK is this Downtown Abbey and Oxford tour from London (including Highclere!)
Downton Abbey is an extremely popular TV show and takes place in a beautiful part of the United Kingdom!
If you want to see what your other options are, here are 10 more tours that are definitely worth your time.
So let’s get into the list of the best Downton Abbey tours in the UK so you can book it already!
PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.
Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group, where I can answer more of your questions!
Easy Guide: Best Downton Abbey Tours
| #1 PICK 🏆 | Downton Abbey and Oxford Tour from London Including Highclere Castle | 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 490+ reviews | ▶ Book Here! |
| #2 PICK | Downton Abbey Village, Blenheim Palace and Cotswolds Day Trip from London | 4.5 out of 5 stars, 340+ reviews | ▶ Book Here! |
| #3 PICK | Small Group Tour: Downton Abbey and Village Tour of Locations from London | 5 out of 5 stars, 12+ reviews | ▶ Book Here! |
1. Downton Abbey and Oxford Tour from London Including Highclere Castle
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 490+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Walking tour of Oxford and a village of Bampton
- A copy of Lady Carnarvon’s autobiography
- Upgrades available
- Transportation by Luxury Air-Conditioned Coach
This tour starts with a walk through Oxford.
See everything this city has to offer! You’ll also get to explore the grounds of Oxford University.
Then visit Bampton, the village in the Cotswolds where Downton Abbey is filmed.
Visit different filming locations and see spots from your favorite episodes!
You’ll also get to see Highclere Castle.
You’ll surely enjoy the beautiful landscape surrounding this iconic landmark.
This accessible tour is quite popular.
Its departure point in central London makes it easy for most London travelers to attend.
The knowledgeable tour guides will share loads of trivia about the characters and locations in the show.
If you want to keep learning even after the day ends, then you’re in luck!
Every guest will receive a copy of Lady Carnarvon’s biography.
Upgrade to receive one of her other books, such as Lady Catherine or Lady Almina.
2. Downton Abbey Village, Blenheim Palace and Cotswolds Day Trip from London
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 340+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Professional guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Free WiFi on coach
- Audio guide
Departing from Victoria coach station, this tour drives throughout the gorgeous scenery of Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds.
With three main stops, you’ll have a great chance to explore some of this region’s beauty!
Your first stop is Blenheim Palace. Sir Winston Churchill’s birthplace is now the private home of the 11th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough.
Tour this stately building to appreciate the lavish interior design and beautiful landscaping.
Buford, “the Gateway to the Cotswolds,” is a medieval village.
You will stop here next.
You’ll either stop at Bibury or Bourton on the Water. Bibury looks like it belongs on a postcard.
Take lots of pictures at this quaint historic village! Bourton on the Water is also known as “Little Venice.”
This is because of the many waterways and bridges.
Finally, you’ll visit Bampton.
This is where Downton Abbey was filmed. Explore the village and relax in some of your characters’ favorite spots!
3. Small Group Tour: Downton Abbey and Village Tour of Locations from London
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Local guide
- Live commentary on board
- Entry to Highclere Castle
- Transport by Mini Coach
Explore rural London on this Downton Abbey tour.
Visit this Oxfordshire village where the popular British TV show is filmed.
Learn all about the people and places of the hit show!
You’ll get to visit Highclere Castle and tour its grounds.
See the inside and outside of many of your favorite places from Downton Abbey.
If you love trivia, you’ll love learning so much new information! Even the biggest fans of the show will learn something new.
You’ll have some downtime to do your own exploring.
However, there will also be a guided tour so you don’t miss anything!
You’ll travel back in time for a day to see this beautiful part of the Cotswolds.
Not only will you learn about Downton Abbey, you’ll also learn about the real life history of this area.
Learn the interesting history of these beautiful buildings!
4. Small-Group ‘Downton Abbey’ and Highclere Castle Tour from London
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 120+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Entry to Cogges Manor Farm
- Guided tour of Bampton
- Entry to Highclere Castle
With a maximum of 18 guests, this small group tour is a truly personal experience.
Travel across the London countryside as you head to Bampton.
You may have a long drive, but it will be absolutely gorgeous!
Unlike many other tours, this one stops at Cogges Manor Farm.
With the entry fee included, you’ll be able to tour this lovely farm and visit some of its filming locations.
Bampton is the English village where Downton Abbey is mostly filmed. Learn a bit about this town and the TV show.
Visit the Crawley family home, some of the shops, and even the village church. Everywhere you look, you’ll recognize locations from the popular British TV show.
Before heading home, you’ll also visit Highclere Castle.
This iconic landmark is an important part of British history and a crucial part of the TV series.
5. ‘Downton Abbey’ TV Locations and Blenheim Palace Tour from London
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 40+ reviews | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Entry to Blenheim Palace
- Entry to Cogges Manor Farm
- Guided tour of Bampton
Your guide will share interesting information regarding Downton Abbey and the area it was filmed while you ride through the countryside.
Be sure to look out your windows to catch glimpses of scenic Oxfordshire!
You’ll stop at Cogges Manor Farm where you can enjoy a hot drink.
After enjoying the rustic café, you’ll get to visit filming locations around the farm.
Then you’ll explore Bampton.
This is the village that inspired the TV show. Walk around the popular places featured in the series.
You can see the village church, Grantham Arms Pub, and Main Street.
Pass by the historic village of Shilton to catch a glimpse of its beauty.
Take a few pictures before heading to Blenheim Palace.
While Blenheim Palace hasn’t been featured in Downton Abbey, it is an iconic piece of English history.
This gorgeous building is full of history and significance. It’s easy to imagine the Crawley family visiting here.
6. Private Downton Abbey with Castle Taxi Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Bottled water
- Private transportation
- Choice of itineraries
- Air-conditioned vehicle
In this private tour, you’ll ride around in style, in a private black cab.
You could visit Bampton, Highclere Castle, or Grey’s Court.
All three are significant in the world of Downton Abbey.
Your private guide will spill the tea about current British aristocracy and speculate on rumors of the TV series.
Learn so much insider knowledge that you won’t learn otherwise!
No matter which itinerary you choose, you’ll be able to visit many filming locations.
Learn about each location and take lots of pictures!
You’ll have the opportunity to stop by a pub for lunch and get refreshed for the second half of your day.
You’ll also be immersed in the beautiful Cotswolds!
You’ll learn so much history and trivia before the tour is over.
Your tour guide will be very knowledgeable and cater the experience to meet your needs.
7. Downton Abbey and Village Tour from London by Coach
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Live commentary on board
- Professional guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- All Fees and Taxes
Spend all day visiting Downton Abbey filming locations on this tour!
The day includes a guided walking tour of Bampton and 3 hours of downtime at Highclere Castle.
The structure and free time work to make the perfect itinerary!
Your knowledgeable guide will share behind the scenes trivia about this popular British TV show.
Even the biggest fans will learn something new!
While driving from Central London to Bampton, you’ll see the beautiful scenery of Oxfordshire.
Visit Matthew’s house, the church, and more while on the guided walking tour.
Then you’ll head to Highclere Castle where you can explore on your own.
The tour will provide you with a leaflet that has information about the grounds. If you still have any questions, you can ask your tour guide on the ride home!
You’ll also have the chance to grab lunch or buy a souvenir while at Highclere Castle.
8. Downton Abbey London Walking Tour
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Walking tour of filming locations
- Knowledgeable guide
- Insider knowledge
- Affordable cost
If you don’t have time to spend a day traveling to Bampton, this tour might be right for you!
While most of the show was filmed elsewhere, there are many filming locations right in London.
Spend a few hours exploring the different spots in London where the show was filmed.
The first main stop is Middle Temple Hall.
Not only will you recognize some places from the TV series, but you’ll also see some world famous landmarks!
You’ll also visit Strand.
This tour will show many beautiful parts of London that can be seen on the show.
And the final stop is Buckingham Palace.
An iconic part of London history and culture, parts of the show were filmed here.
See if you recognize any places from your favorite episodes!
With its affordable price, you could even do this tour to complement a Bampton tour.
This will give you the chance to see as many spots from the show as possible!
9. Downton Abbey Day In The Cotswolds Tour
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- A full day tour of the Cotswolds
- Entry to Cogges Manor Farm
- 6 tour stops
- Personalized private tour
The Cotswolds is one of the most beautiful regions in the United Kingdom.
On this tour, you can soak in all their natural beauty!
It’s perfect for Downton Abbey fans because you’ll get to see many of the filming locations.
Your first stop will be Cogges Manor Farm.
This rustic farm is also known as the Yew Tree Farm in the series.
Tour the farmhouse and meet some of the animals!
Next, you’ll visit Asthall.
Learn about the Milford sisters on this quick stop.
Then head to the Swan Pub for a quick and delicious lunch.
Enjoy beautiful scenery as you drive through Swinbrook and Fulbrook.
Then head to Burford, one of the most beautiful parts of the Cotswolds. Shilton is another historic and beautiful village you’ll stop by for a quick visit.
Finally, you’ll visit Bampton.
The tour guide will take you by all the iconic filming locations and share their history.
You might even get to meet some local fans of the show.
10. Private Downton Abbey Tour, including Bampton, Cogges Farm, and Highclere
⭐️⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Private Tour
- Round-trip transit
- Cogges Manor Farm
- Highclere Castle
Follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters on this private tour!
The guide will personalize the tour and immerse you in Downton Abbey.
You’ll see many popular filming locations and have the opportunity to ask any question you can think of!
The tour guide will share behind the scenes information and historical trivia.
This tour will also include some of the lesser-known filming locations.
You’ll also get to pass through Shilton and Swinbrook and learn about the significance of those towns.
Even though they’re not main locations in the series, true fans will recognize them!
Fortunately, you’ll be able to tour Bampton, Cogges Manor Farm, and Highclere Castle.
Those are the three main locations Downton Abbey fans will want to see!
After spending the day at those destinations, you’ll be ready to head back to your hotel for the night.
11. Downton Abbey Inspired English Countryside (Private Full Day Excursion)
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✔️ BOOK NOW
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR
- Driver/guide
- Transport by private vehicle
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Central London
This private tour will take you on a ride through the English countryside. You’ll soak in all the scenic views and learn about the popular TV series!
Since someone else is driving, you can look out your windows and imagine your favorite characters in their favorite places.
This private tour will also customize the itinerary to fit your needs.
Plus, you’ll have your guide’s undivided attention!
You’ll drive through Burford, the Cotswolds, and Oxfordshire.
You’ll have the chance to tour Bampton and see St. Mary’s Church and Bampton Library.
You’ll also get to stop at Shilton, Swinbrook, and Cogges Manor Farm.
Even if you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t love the show, they’ll enjoy this tour.
Who doesn’t love the beautiful landscapes found throughout the UK?
UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs
🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?
Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here, a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.
🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?
Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one, which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.
🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?
The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.
🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?
For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.
📳 Will my phone work in the UK?
Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.
🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?
Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink.
Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!
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