Discover the splendour of Highclere Castle on this fantastic Mini Break, exploring the real-life home of Downton Abbey. Step inside the elegant State Rooms and venture ‘downstairs’, where the lives of the Crawley family and their servants captured the hearts of millions. Our visit also includes entry to the fascinating Egyptian Exhibition and the castle’s beautiful gardens. Rounding off the trip with free time in historic Oxford and regal Windsor, this spectacular break has something for all interests!
3 days from £279pp £558 for 2 people Single Room Supplement from £69pp
Book NowRegional departure by coach, then we journey to the historic city of Oxford. You will have free time in the city to explore and admire the abundance of stunning architecture, before we continue to our hotel for a two-night stay. Enjoy dinner this evening in the hotel.
Today’s highlight is a visit to Highclere Castle – the real-life home of Downton Abbey. Step down the grand staircase once graced by Lady Mary on her wedding day, pause at Jackdaws Castle where Lady Edith so often appeared, and admire the state dining room where many of the Dowager Countess’ most memorable lines were delivered by Dame Maggie Smith. Explore Mrs Patmore’s Kitchen and the old staff quarters, where the much-loved characters of Downton came to life.
Highclere Castle is also home to the Earl of Carnarvon, whose ancestor, the 5th Earl, famously discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun with Howard Carter. The castle’s fascinating Egyptian Exhibition offers a remarkable insight into this celebrated discovery.
Round off your visit with a pause at the castle’s charming tea shop, then stroll through the grounds to capture that picture-perfect view of Highclere Castle from afar.
After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we depart with an on-route stop at Windsor. Famous for its royal history and heritage, you will have some free time to explore. Why not take a stroll along the River Thames or an excursion boat trip on the river? From here, we depart and enjoy our direct journey home.
You will stay for two nights at the 4-star Apollo Hotel Basingstoke.
Location: Aldermaston Roundabout, , Basingstoke, RG24 9NU
The Apollo Hotel is a welcoming, independent hotel in the Hampshire town of Basingstoke. Bedrooms are thoughtfully appointed with a bath and power shower, desk, armchair, hairdryer, luggage stand, and a handy hospitality tray. After a day exploring, the hotel’s leisure club offers the perfect retreat, with an indoor pool, spa pool, sauna, and steam room. Dining is equally inviting, whether it’s a relaxed meal in the Brasserie Restaurant or a drink in the characterful Library Bar and Lounge.Need further information? Fill in our enquiry form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can
Single Room Supplement from £69.00
