Find the perfect stay near Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle is a magnificent stately home set within 1,000 acres of rolling parkland, famously serving as the primary filming location for the television drama Downton Abbey. Wandering through the grand staterooms and the Egyptian Exhibition offers a fascinating look into both cinematic history and real-world aristocratic heritage. It is a wonderful place to explore if you enjoy period architecture, beautifully manicured gardens, and a bit of silver-screen nostalgia.

This grand country estate in Hampshire serves as a working family home that opens its doors to the public during specific months of the year.

Getting inside and planning your visit

Because the house is a private residence, it is generally only open for tours during the summer months and for a few days around Easter and the spring bank holidays. It is a good idea to book your tickets well in advance, as popular dates often sell out months before the gates open. An entry fee applies to access the house, the Egyptian exhibition, and the gardens. Please check the official site for current opening times and the specific 2024 or 2025 seasonal dates, as they change every year.

Accessibility is well-managed, with a lift available for those who cannot use the stairs to reach the first floor. However, the heavy gravel paths in the gardens might be a bit of a workout for manual wheelchair users. The walk from the main car park to the house entrance is about 100 yards, so keep that in mind when choosing your footwear.

Exploring the rooms and the grounds

The house is a masterpiece of Jacobethan architecture, designed by the same man who worked on the Houses of Parliament. Inside, you can wander through the State Rooms, including the Library which holds over 5,650 books. The grand stone staircase is a particular highlight, leading you toward bedrooms that many will recognise from the screen.

Beyond the Victorian opulence, the basement holds a surprise in the form of the Egyptian Exhibition. This collection celebrates the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who helped discover the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. Outside, you can explore the Monks' Garden or take a longer stroll to see the 18th-century follies scattered across the landscape.

The story behind the stone

The site has been home to the Bishops of Winchester for 800 years, but the house you see today was largely finished in 1842. It has survived through various eras, even serving as a hospital during the First World War. The current Earl and Countess still live here, which gives the interiors a warm, lived-in feel despite the massive scale of the building.

The parkland surrounding the house was designed by the famous landscape architect Capability Brown in the 18th century. It was created to look like a natural, rolling landscape, though every hill and lake was carefully planned. The history here stretches back centuries before the cameras ever arrived, making it a fascinating spot for anyone interested in British heritage.

Since the estate sits just a short drive from the market town of Newbury, finding your way around Highclere Castle is straightforward. You will find plenty of comfortable places to stay nearby, ranging from traditional country inns to modern town hotels.

Where to stay near the estate

If you want to stay close to the action, look for accommodation in the small villages surrounding the estate, such as Burghclere or Kingsclere. These areas are perfect for a quiet retreat and often feature cosy pubs with rooms or small bed and breakfasts. For those who prefer more variety, Newbury town centre is about 5 miles away and offers a mix of well-known hotel chains and boutique spots. Staying in the town gives you easy access to local shops and restaurants after a day spent exploring the grounds. The area is generally very family-friendly, with many countryside lodges offering extra space for those travelling with children.

Getting to the castle grounds

The easiest way to reach the site is by taking a taxi from Newbury Station, which is a 15-minute journey. If you are driving, the estate is well-signposted from the A34 and provides free parking on-site for visitors. While there is no direct bus service that drops you at the front gates, the short cab ride from the town centre remains the most reliable option for those arriving by train from London or Reading.

Use Opodo to find the best hotels near Highclere Castle. You can easily look through hotels that match your needs and spot the best deals in just a few clicks. Whether you want a quiet countryside stay or a spot in Newbury, picking the right hotel is simple and fun. Start your search now to find a great place to stay at a price that works for you. Book your hotel today and get ready for a lovely trip to this historic estate.