Of course, everyone knows that Downton Abbey is a fictional location, but in fact it was filmed at Highclere Castle near Newbury, and the Friends of Romsey Abbey enjoyed a trip there on 28th May. There were references aplenty to the programme, with specific locations in the castle identified for visitors. In the room identified as the setting for Lord and Lady Grantham’s bedroom, it was noted that apart from the actors, about 30 crew had to be accommodated during filming: it must have been a very tight squeeze!
The Castle itself is a Victorian gothic-style mansion, based around an older house. Apart from the associations with Downton Abbey, it is also the real-life home of Lord and Lady Caernarvon. The 5th Lord Caernarvon was well-known in the early 20th Century for having funded the archaeological expeditions to Egypt conducted with Howard Carter. Together, after much frustration, they discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun. The cellars of the castle hold a fascinating exhibition about the expeditions and the final success, with many artifacts discovered in the tombs and a mock-up of Tutankhamun’s tomb. The whole exhibition was extremely well presented.
The grounds of the castle include a walled garden, a rosary, and some sweeping lawns. It was a real delight to see that much of the lower lawn had been left as a flower meadow, encouraging the wild plants and associated wildlife to thrive.
A splendid day out enjoyed by everyone
Click on the Gallery below to view Ken GIbson’s photos
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