Filmed on location throughout Britain, the Downton Abbey movie celebrates some of the nation's prettiest and most iconic places. Here, we’ll take you on a Downton-inspired journey around a host of the locations that you can spot in the film, some of which are more obvious than others.
Highclere Castle, Hampshire
If you’re looking to experience all things Downton, there’s no better place to start than Highclere Castle. Home to the Carnarvon family since 1679, the castle has been the iconic filming location doubling as Downton Abbey for all six series in addition to the film, and is instantly recognisable to fans of the show.
Bampton, Oxfordshire
The picturesque village of Bampton, in Oxfordshire, made a welcome return to the screen in the Downton Abbey movie. It was here that many of the outside scenes of Downton Village and Crawley House were filmed and you’ll notice lots of well-known sites such as the church (filmed at St Mary’s Church), the post office and the Grantham Arms and The Dog & Duck pubs. The Old Grammar School also doubled up as the hospital in Downton village and houses a range of memorabilia from the hit drama.
Beamish Museum, County Durham
Step back in time with a virtual visit on Google Maps to Beamish Museum, a living museum that reveals the history and traditions of life in north-east England in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The setting for several scenes in the TV series, the Beamish Open Air Museum was also used to film several scenes in the movie. With different areas dedicated to life throughout the ages in the region – from an 1820s village complete with waggonway to a 1940s farm, the museum offers the chance to explore the past in true Downton Abbey style.
Lacock, Wiltshire
With its cobbled streets and cosy stone cottages, the National Trust village of Lacock has been a favourite filming location for decades, not least for Downton Abbey! It’s here that the exterior of Carson’s cottage was filmed, and in summer 2018 members of the cast were once again spotted filming a procession through the town, in a major scene that brings to life the ceremony of British royal traditions. Home to the 13th-century Lacock Abbey, the village’s rich history and traditions are embedded in every stone, making it a perfect final stop on our Downton-themed journey through the film’s remarkable locations.
