Downton Abbey Filming Locations
If you’re a fan of the hit television series Downton Abbey, you’ve likely found yourself wondering where the stunning scenery and grandiose estates featured in the show were filmed. The show, which is set in the early 20th century, features some of the most iconic and picturesque locations in England. From grand castles to sprawling countryside estates, each location adds to the charm and authenticity of the show. But have you ever wondered where exactly these locations are? In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history and locations behind the filming of Downton Abbey and give you an inside look at some of the most stunning places in England that have become synonymous with the show. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be transported back in time to the world of Downton Abbey.
Highclere Castle – The Main Downton Abbey Filming Location

Perhaps the most iconic location featured in Downton Abbey is the magnificent Highclere Castle. This stunning estate, located in Hampshire, serves as the primary filming location for the show’s grandiose exterior shots and many of the interior scenes. The castle has been in the Carnarvon family’s possession since the mid-17th century and has undergone several renovations over the years to maintain its grandeur.
Visitors to the castle can explore the various rooms and gardens that have been featured in the show, including the drawing-room, dining room, and library. One of the most significant changes made to the castle for the show was the addition of a servant’s staircase, which was not present in the original building. Fans of the show can also take part in guided tours of the castle and even attend special events held on the estate throughout the year.
Bampton Village – The Exterior Shots of Downton Village
While Highclere Castle serves as the primary filming location for Downton Abbey, the quaint village of Bampton in Oxfordshire is where many of the exterior shots for the show’s titular village were filmed. The village has been used for filming since the first season of the show and has become a popular tourist destination for fans looking to visit the iconic locations from the series.
Visitors to Bampton can take part in guided walking tours of the village, which will take them to many of the locations featured in the show, including St. Mary’s Church, the village green, and the library. The village also hosts an annual Downton Abbey-themed event, which includes a parade, live music, and a costume contest.
London – Downton Abbey Filming Locations for the City Scenes
While the majority of Downton Abbey takes place in the English countryside, the show also features several scenes set in London. These scenes were filmed in various locations throughout the city, including the famous Ealing Studios, which served as the primary filming location for the show’s interior scenes set in London.
Other notable filming locations in London include Lancaster House, which served as the interior of Buckingham Palace in the show, and the Savile Club, which was used for several scenes set in the city. Fans of the show can even take part in guided tours of these locations, which will give them an inside look at the filming process and the history behind each location.
Other Downton Abbey Filming Locations in England – Including Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and Hampshire
In addition to Highclere Castle and Bampton Village, Downton Abbey was filmed in several other locations throughout England. These locations include the stunning Basildon Park in Berkshire, which served as the interior of Grantham House, and the beautiful village of Brampton in Oxfordshire, which was used for several exterior shots throughout the show.
Other notable filming locations in England include Byfleet Manor in Surrey, which served as the location for the show’s Christmas special, and the picturesque village of Shilton in Oxfordshire, which was used for several exterior shots throughout the series.
Scottish Downton Abbey Filming Locations – Inveraray Castle and the Rannoch Moor
While the majority of Downton Abbey was filmed in England, the show also features several scenes set in Scotland. These scenes were filmed in various locations throughout the country, including Inveraray Castle, which served as the location for the show’s Christmas special, and the stunning Rannoch Moor, which was used for several exterior shots throughout the series.
Visitors to Scotland can explore these locations and take part in guided tours, which will give them an inside look at the filming process and the history behind each location.
International Downton Abbey Filming Locations – Including New York and the French Riviera
While the majority of Downton Abbey was filmed in England and Scotland, the show also features several scenes set in other parts of the world. These scenes were filmed in various locations, including New York, which served as the location for several scenes in the show’s final season, and the French Riviera, which was used for several exterior shots throughout the series.
Fans of the show can take part in guided tours of these locations, which will give them an inside look at the filming process and the history behind each location.
Downton Abbey Movie Filming Locations
In addition to the television series, Downton Abbey was also adapted into a feature film, which was released in 2019. The movie was filmed in several locations throughout England, including Highclere Castle, which served as the primary filming location for the film, and the village of Lacock in Wiltshire, which was used for several exterior shots throughout the movie.
Fans of the show can explore these locations and take part in guided tours, which will give them an inside look at the filming process and the history behind each location.
Visiting the Downton Abbey Filming Locations
If you’re a fan of Downton Abbey, visiting the various filming locations throughout England and Scotland is a must-do experience. From the stunning Highclere Castle to the quaint village of Bampton, each location offers a unique and authentic look at the world of Downton Abbey.
Many of these locations offer guided tours and special events throughout the year, making them an ideal destination for fans looking to immerse themselves in the world of the show. So why not plan a trip to England or Scotland and explore the stunning locations that have become synonymous with Downton Abbey?
Downton Abbey has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world, thanks in part to its stunning locations and authentic portrayal of early 20th-century England. From the iconic Highclere Castle to the quaint village of Bampton, each location featured in the show adds to its charm and authenticity.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the show or simply appreciate the beauty of its filming locations, exploring the various sites throughout England and Scotland is a must-do experience. So why not plan a trip today and immerse yourself in the world of Downton Abbey? You won’t be disappointed.