5 high society hotel stays for a grand Downton Abbey getaway

Sep 13 , 2019

Going to Brown’s Hotel in London, where some of the scenes in Downton Abbey were filmed, is like stepping into a bygone era with rooms that feature antique furniture, period fireplaces and marble en suites, and are so large that you can lose your family in them.

Are you a diehard Downtonian? Then these luxury hotels – all near locations where the blockbuster British TV series was filmed, from Highclere Castle to the Ritz Hotel – are perfect for an aristocratic break from reality

September’s long-awaited Downton Abbey film has propelled all things quintessentially British, charming and aristocratic onto our radar. Live as if you were in the UK television drama with a trip to these luxury hotels near the show’s famous filming locations.

Four Seasons Hampshire

This Georgian manor house merges upper-class chic with pure hipsterdom, thanks to a recent refurbishment that has it prepped for a sophisticated getaway as well as a social media frenzy.

There’s a red leather bar, Highwire Adventure obstacle course and crystal steam room to keep guests busy. Or if you’re just here for posing, the vintage wallpaper, deep purple hydrangeas and glamorous oil paintings make brilliant backdrops.

Located in the heart of the rolling Hampshire countryside, this is a great stay for those who want Downton on their doorstep.

See: Less than an hour’s drive away, Highclere Castle in Berkshire is Downton Abbey. This gorgeous castle sits pretty in Berkshire, and on screen it’s home to the Crawley family.

However, in real life Highclere Castle is the seat of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, whose family have lived there since 1679. It’s open to the public around 70 days of the year, including some summer months and a few days at Christmas, so check with Lightfoot Travel before planning your trip.

Cliveden House

Cliveden House, the former home of several Dukes and the hotel where Meghan Markle stayed the night before her wedding to Prince Harry, is shrouded in history and intrigue.

Rooms are named after figures from the house’s past and decorated accordingly, complemented by state-of-the-art technology and marble bathrooms. Dine in the Andre Garrett Restaurant, which serves modern British cuisine, or the relaxed Astor Grill. We recommend The Lady Astor and The Prince of Wales suites, on the first floor of the main house.