Explore the Iconic Downton Abbey Filming Locations in Style

The London: Downton Abbey Countryside Black Taxi VIP Tour offers a chance to step into the world of the beloved period drama for a full 9 hours. Priced at $1,076.25 per group of up to 6, this private experience begins with hotel pickup in central London and takes you through some of the most picturesque and film-famous sites in the Hampshire and Oxfordshire countryside. The tour is perfect for Downton Abbey fans who want a personalized and intimate glimpse of the show’s real-world filming locations, with the added charm of a classic London black taxi and a knowledgeable guide.

One of the standout features of this tour is its small group size, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility. The tour is designed to treat you like royalty for the day, with live commentary, photo stops, and an authentic countryside lunch at a traditional English pub. The experience is well-suited for those who appreciate comfort, history, and a touch of elegance, though it requires some walking and mobility in outdoor settings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

9-hour private tour from central London, including hotel pickup and drop-off
Visit Highclere Castle, the real-life filming location of Downton Abbey
Explore Oxfordshire villages like Bampton, with iconic locations such as Matthew Crawley’s house and the village church
Flexible booking, with full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance
Guided by expert guides with live commentary and photo stops
Includes a traditional English pub lunch and refreshment stops

While in London, here are other experiences we've covered

Departure and Pickup from Central London Hotels

This tour begins with a pickup from your central London hotel, with pickup times varying based on availability. Your guide, a licensed London taxi driver, will meet you at the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled start. The tour is designed as a private group, up to 6 people, making it ideal for families, small groups of friends, or couples seeking a more personalized experience. The pickup areas cover many central London zones, including E1, EC1, EC2, EC3, EC4, N1, SE1, SW1, SW3, SW7, W1, W2, W8, WC1, WC2.

The journey begins with a scenic drive through London, then quickly transitions into the Oxfordshire countryside, giving you a taste of rural England along the way. The chauffeur-guide provides engaging commentary, setting the scene for the day’s adventure.

Visiting the Village of Bampton and Other Oxfordshire Filming Spots

The first major stops are in the Oxfordshire villages, which served as the real-world backdrop for Downton Abbey. You’ll find yourself outside Matthew Crawley’s house, where you can take photographs of the famous exterior. The guide shares stories about the filming and the charm of these historic villages.

Other notable locations include the village church, which hosted many weddings, christenings, and funerals in the series, and the two village pubs that feature in several episodes. These stops give a tangible sense of the show’s setting, and the guide offers insights into how these locations were transformed for the series.

You will also have time to explore and buy Downton souvenirs, making this a perfect opportunity for fans to bring home a keepsake of their visit.

Authentic Countryside Lunch at a Traditional English Pub

Midway through the tour, there is a lunch stop at an old English pub in the countryside. This allows travelers to enjoy a genuine pub meal in a cozy setting, experiencing the local hospitality and atmosphere. The stop offers a relaxing break from sightseeing, with the chance to discuss the morning’s discoveries.

The guide arranges for a pause in the countryside for a brief lunch before continuing the exploration. This part of the tour emphasizes the traditional charm of rural England, complementing the cinematic locations seen earlier.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Highclere Castle, the Heart of Downton Abbey

The highlight of this tour is the visit to Highclere Castle, the real-life estate where Downton Abbey was filmed. After lunch, the group heads to the castle, with a photo stop en route. The castle’s history is explained by your guide, providing context about its architecture, previous owners, and its role in the series.

While entry to Highclere Castle is not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately in advance, the exterior views and the drive around the estate remain a memorable part of the experience. The castle is only open during certain months and is not open on Fridays or Saturdays, so planning ahead is essential for access.

Inside the castle, visitors can see rooms featured in the show, but access depends on the day and ticket availability. The tour offers a rundown of the estate’s connection to Downton Abbey and its historical significance.

While you're exploring London, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Expertise of Guides and the Quality of the Experience

Multiple reviews highlight the skill and friendliness of guides such as Andrew and Steve. Andrew, in particular, receives praise for his superb knowledge, easy-going personality, and ability to help visitors locate all the key locations. His storytelling enriches the experience, making the sights more meaningful.

Guides also facilitate a delicious pub lunch, sharing additional insights about the local area. Their commentary makes the day both informative and entertaining, creating a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

Practicalities, Accessibility, and Booking Details

The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs. It is a private group experience, allowing for a more flexible schedule and personalized attention. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund offered if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

It is important to buy tickets to Highclere Castle in advance, ideally for 2:30 PM, but earlier times such as 10 AM or 10:30 AM are also available. The castle’s limited opening months and days should be checked beforehand to avoid missing this attraction.

The tour lasts about 9 hours, with various refreshment stops along the way, making it a comfortable, well-paced day out. The live commentary is provided in English, ensuring clarity for all participants.

Who Will Appreciate This Downton Abbey Tour?

This experience is ideal for fans of the series eager to see the real filming locations and learn behind-the-scenes stories. The personalized nature of the private group makes it suitable for couples, families, or small groups seeking a tailored, relaxed day. The quality of guides and the beautiful countryside scenery are added advantages.

However, travelers should be aware of the limited castle opening months and the need to pre-book Highclere Castle tickets. The cost reflects the private, customized experience, so it’s best suited for those looking for a more exclusive tour rather than a large-group coach trip.

The Sum Up: A Charming Day for Downton Fans and History Enthusiasts

The London: Downton Abbey Countryside Black Taxi VIP Tour combines luxury, history, and film locations into one smooth, engaging day. For fans of the series, the chance to visit Highclere Castle and the Oxfordshire villages makes this a memorable outing. The expert guides and personalized attention ensure a relaxed experience, filled with stories, beautiful scenery, and authentic English pub lunch.

While the price point may seem high, it reflects the private group setting, luxury transport, and comprehensive itinerary. The tour is especially suitable for those who value quality over quantity and want a personalized Downton Abbey experience. It’s a well-rounded option for anyone wanting to connect the TV show with real-world locations in a charming, relaxed atmosphere.

Ready to Book?

London: Downton Abbey Countryside Black Taxi VIP Tour

4.7

(15)

“Andrew our driver guide was superb. We never would have been able to find all the village locations on our own and his knowledge of each location w…”

— Cynthia, December 4, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

Is entry to Highclere Castle included in the tour?
No, tickets to Highclere Castle must be purchased separately in advance, ideally for 2:30 PM, but earlier times are also available.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour is designed for up to 6 people, making it a private experience with personalized attention.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.