Highclere Castle
Hampshire, England
Key facts
- Operator
- Highclere Castle Enterprises
- Condition
- Intact
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
Pinpoint
Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury RG20 9RN
Telephone 01635 253210
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
Highclere Castle is the seat of the Earl of Carnarvon and world-famous as the filming location for Downton Abbey. Reviewers describe a house that keeps a homely, lived-in family atmosphere despite the fame, with portraits of the current Earl and Countess sitting alongside historic ones, and are especially drawn to the Egyptian exhibition tied to the family's archaeological history.
Worth the trip
The Egyptian exhibition, which reviewers repeatedly call a must-see part of the visit.
Before you go
Photography isn't permitted inside the house and bag policies are strict, so travel light, and expect it to be busy - reviewers who arrived right at opening found it quieter.
Reviewers consistently connect their visit to Downton Abbey and praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides and the well-presented Egyptian exhibition. The gardens are repeatedly called beautiful and relaxing, with the secret gardens mentioned as worth seeking out. A recurring frustration is a strict, seemingly inconsistent policy on backpacks and mobility aids like walkers on the stairs, and food options are described as basic with limited choice for dietary restrictions. No photography being allowed inside the house is another point several visitors mention, generally with understanding rather than complaint.
Seat of the Earl of Carnarvon, filming location for Downton Abbey
“The pictures don’t do it justice and you must visit this Castle. The grounds and gardens are so nice. The tour of the house with the history of Highclere and the connection to Downton Abbey was wonderful.”- Jeff Hart, visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “We had our lunch in the car park which is disappointing.” - Luke Smith
- Guided tours
- “The guides were really good.” - Luke Smith
- How long to allow
- “A great place to visit we spent about 11/2 hours walking around the gardens.” - Paul McCullock
- Facilities
- “There are plenty of toilets including disabled.” - Paul McCullock
Common questions about Highclere Castle
Where is Highclere Castle?
Highclere Castle is in Hampshire, England, at Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury RG20 9RN.
Do you need a ticket to visit Highclere Castle?
Yes - Highclere Castle is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by Highclere Castle Enterprises. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
What is the highlight of visiting Highclere Castle?
The Egyptian exhibition, which reviewers repeatedly call a must-see part of the visit.
Is Highclere Castle a ruin or still intact?
Highclere Castle is largely intact - Seat of the Earl of Carnarvon, filming location for Downton Abbey.
