Highclere Castle AKA Downton Abbey

Left Christchurch just after 8am and headed north to Newbury to visit Highclere Castle, the home of the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnavon. It has been in their family since the late 17th century. Although still a family home, it is the setting of the popular series 'Downton Abbey' which is one of many ways they have been able to fund the ongoing maintenance of such a large and historic castle.

It has its share of early history and is blessed with countless paintings, sculptures, books and beautiful furniture. However, we were most interested in the connection and story of the 5th Earl of Carnavon and his discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun.

After the tour of the house we visited their Egyptian Exhibition and the story of the discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun.

We then made our way upstairs in the Coach House where we had a High Tea for lunch. The lunch was so delicious and a lot of fun.

Candice admired the crockery on which the high tea was served and I noticed it was displayed on the wall behind her … you could purchase this dinnerware. We went across to the gift shop afterwards and a tea set is on its way home!Read more