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W I N T E R I S S U E 3 0
people expect it to be, with 50 to 80
bedrooms. Perhaps I need to count some of
the rooms so I can be a little more precise!
AN EXTENSIVE LIBRARY
In our library, we have around 6,500 books.
They are all so interesting but, as many are
leather-bound antique books, they require
constant cleaning and dusting. The oldest
book is from the 15th century. The library
has often been seen on screen because the
estate is, of course, famous for its role in the
Downton Abbey television series and
movies. Writer Julian Fellowes and his wife,
Emma, have often stayed here with us, as
great friends. They know how the house
works and the way the staff helps us in
the house.
THE REAL-LIFE DOWNTON ABBEY
Julian says he wrote the series with Highclere
in mind. After looking at hundreds of houses
around the country, Highclere was chosen as
the setting for the television series, and
filming started in 2010. Five more seasons
and several movies were filmed, and
hundreds of crew members and actors have
spent time here. It has been a wonderful
partnership for us all.
VIKING PRIVILEGED ACCESS
It has been such a delight to welcome Viking
guests into our home during Privileged
Access visits and to share with them some of
the staterooms, the galleried bedrooms, the
history and our exhibition in the cellars here
at Highclere celebrating our connection to
Tutankhamen's tomb. In 1922, the 5th Earl
of Carnarvon and Howard Carter were
responsible for the discovery of the tomb,
and we have fascinating artefacts and
photographs telling their story.
3 NIGHTS – OXFORD & HIGHCLERE
CASTLE EXTENSION
Spend three days in the picturesque
Hampshire countryside. Explore the
historic University of Oxford, Blenheim
Palace and the Cotswolds. And enjoy an
exclusive visit to Highclere Castle. Be
welcomed with a cup of tea and then
enjoy a Privileged Access tour of the
castle's public rooms, including the
magnificent main hall, dining room,
drawing room and sitting rooms.
4 NIGHTS – GREAT HOMES,
GARDENS & GIN EXTENSION
Get a flavour of English nobility and
experience an exclusive look at several
country estates including Highclere Castle.
While at the castle, taste the Highclere
Castle Gin, inspired by botanicals from
the castle's gardens. Discover the histories
behind the families of Broughton Castle
and Chavenage House, plus admire the
idyllic gardens at Highgrove House.
4 NIGHTS – BRITISH COLLECTIONS OF
ANCIENT EGYPT EXTENSION
Retrace the steps of the world's most
famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and
his benefactor, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon.
Enjoy Privileged Access to archives and
exhibits not normally accessible to the
public at the British Museum and the
University of Oxford's Griffith Institute. Go
behind the scenes of Highclere Castle, the
"real Downton Abbey" and view the earl's
private collection.
EXPERIENCE
HIGHCLERE CASTLE
Add a 3- or 4-night extension
in the English countryside to
your next river or ocean voyage.
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