Highclere Castle
Last Updated on February 21, 2024 by Suzy McCullough
Things to do at Highclere Castle review
Highclere Castle is a Grade 1 listed country house that was built back in 1679 and renovated in the 1840s with parkland that was designed by Capability Brown. The 5,000-acre estate is in Highclere near Newbury in Hampshire.
Highclere is famous for being the on-site location for the filming of the ever-popular period drama Downton Abbey. You can book guided tours and enjoy special events, throughout the year. There are almost 300 tooms in the castle and although the tour can’t take in all of these you will explore the main staterooms especially those familiar from Downton Abbey.
Another reason Highclere Castle is famous is that in November 1922 the 5th Earl of Carnarvon and Howard Carter discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun. The Carnarvon family have lived in Highclere since 1679.
To celebrate their discovery Highclere is now home at an Egyptian exhibition within the cellars of the castle. This explores the path to the discovery of this most famous of tombs with six exhibition rooms including some of the Earl’s own collection of antiquities.
Gardens you can explore include the Monk’s Garden, the White border, the Wood of Goodwill, the Rose arbour, Wildflower meadow and the herb garden. There are 18th-century follies with wonderful views. The gardens and grounds are only open when the castle is open. Although there are a number of public footpaths that are open throughout the year.
FAQ and Further Information Highclere Castle
Is there food and drink available?
There is a tea room serving hot and cold food and drinks.
What are the main things to do?
Enormous castle with guided tours, an Egyptian exhibition and extensive grounds and gardens that you can explore. There are toilets on-site and a tea room.
What are the ticket prices?
*Higher pricedu003cbru003e*Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online. *Higher priced. There is a range of tours you can book on and also a variation on price. An adult castle, exhibition and garden ticket in the spring cost £24, children are £14, family ticket £66.
Is there parking?
There is free, parking.
When are they open?
Highclere Castle has varied opening times and dates. Please u003ca rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022 href=u0022https://www.highclerecastle.co.uk/public-opening-times-and-pricesu0022 target=u0022_blanku0022u003evisit their websiteu003c/au003e for up to date opening times.
Dog friendly?
Dogs are permitted in the grounds on a lead.
Are they accessible?
u003cstrongu003eu003ca rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022 href=u0022https://www.euansguide.com/venues/highclere-castle-newbury-8773u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022u003eInformation on accessibilityu003c/au003eu003c/strongu003e
