Step into the festive magic of Highclere Castle, the iconic home of the Carnarvon family and the beloved setting of Downton Abbey. Your visit begins with a scenic approach along Highclere’s sweeping driveway, where the castle rises against the winter sky in all its Victorian splendour. Inside, the heart of the castle awaits: the soaring Saloon, crowned by a magnificent Christmas tree that stretches toward the gallery above. Visit the staterooms dressed for the season and explore bedrooms where many of the scenes of the popular film and TV show were filmed. We also include en -route visits to historic Oxford and Bath Christmas market – so whether you’re a fan of Downton Abbey, a lover of English heritage, or simply seeking a festive bucket-list experience, this is the perfect break for you.
3 days from £319pp £638 for 2 people Single Room Supplement from £69pp
See datesRegional departure by coach, then we journey to historic Oxford. You will have free time to explore, admiring the stunning architecture and festive lights that make this city a magical place to visit at this time of year. Visit the famous indoor market, browse the independent shops and have a bite to eat. Or, you can choose to discover the abundance of free museums – the Ashmolean Museum is a must!
We then continue to our hotel for a two-night stay. Enjoy dinner this evening in the hotel.Please Note: If you choose our ‘Join at Hotel’ option, you’ll meet us directly at the hotel. En route visits are only included if you're travelling with us by coach.
Today’s highlight is a visit to Highclere Castle – the real-life home of Downton Abbey! At this time of year, the castle is adorned with twinkling trees and festive decorations, offering a classic English bucket-list experience for any fan of Downton Abbey.
Step down the grand staircase once graced by Lady Mary on her wedding day, explore Lady Edith's bedroom and admire the state dining room where many of the Dowager Countess’ most memorable lines were delivered by Dame Maggie Smith.
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 discoveryRound off your visit with a pause at the castle’s charming tea and gift shop, where a hot chocolate or mulled wine is a perfect choice to end your festive experience. Don't forget to take a stroll through the grounds to capture that picture-perfect view of Highclere Castle from afar, and collect your complimentary signed copy of Lady Carnarvon's book on departure.
We return to the hotel late afternoon to give you a chance to relax and enjoy the leisure facilities of the hotel. including a heated pool, sauna, steam and spa, before dinner this evening.
Today we depart the hotel and head to Bath. At this time of year, Bath Christmas Market is a perfect experience to round off your festive break. Wander through the heart of Bath’s historic city centre, transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling chalets, unique gifts and festive food and drink stalls.
We depart early in the afternoon and journey home.
Please Note: If you choose our ‘Join at Hotel’ option, you’ll meet us directly at the hotel. En route visits are only included if you're travelling with us by coach.
Please Note: Highclere Castle is a historic and listed building built in another era, but the main State Rooms & Exhibition are accessible for manual wheelchairs. Given the steep and long staircases, the upstairs gallery and bedrooms are only accessible for those able to walk at reasonable speed unaided, for their own safety. Motorised wheelchairs can be used around the Castle lawns only.
Our team (based right here in the UK) will be more than happy to talk you through things - just give us a buzz!
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 Supplement from £69.00
Travel by
comfy coach
Step on board and
get snug in your seat...
Reclining
seats
Onboard
toilet
Arms and
footrests
Tinted window
with curtains
Air
conditioning
Overhead
reading light
You’ll take the road less hassled with our fully escorted coach holidays – no route planning, no maps, no sat navs. Look forward to comfort from the moment you hop on board to returning home with endless stories to tell!
Our coaches are designed for comfort – think reclining seats, arm and footrests, reading lights and panoramic views. You’ll find refreshments on board (hot drinks too, on selected tours!), plus a friendly crew to guide you every step of the way!
