How to Plan Your Downton Abbey and Cotswolds Tour in Oxford

If you love Downton Abbey and want to experience a day trip to immerse yourself in the real-life filming locations and the beautiful English countryside, the Downton Abbey and Cotswolds tour from Oxford is perfect for you. Here is everything you need to know to plan your tour.

Tour Overview

The tour takes you on a journey through the beautiful English countryside to visit Highclere Castle, the real-life home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the filming location for Downton Abbey. You will have the opportunity to explore the stunning grounds of the castle and see where many of the famous scenes were shot.

After visiting the castle, the tour continues to the charming village of Bampton, the site of the Downton village where Lady Mary and the rest of the Crawley family spent much of their time. Lastly, the tour takes you through the northern Cotswolds, where you will see quaint villages and stop at a traditional pub for lunch.

What’s Included

The tour includes the following:

• A knowledgeable Blue Badge guide who will provide live commentary throughout the day.
• Admission to Highclere Castle.
• Bottled water is provided.
• Lunch is included (apart from drinks).

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Taylor Institution Library in Oxford. The pickup time is 9:00 am, and the tour leaves promptly, so be sure to arrive on time.

Planning Your Tour

Here are some tips for planning a successful tour:

Book in Advance

The Downton Abbey and Cotswolds tour is popular, so it’s essential to book in advance. This allows you to secure your spot on the tour and eliminates the risk of missing out due to high demand.

You can book the tour online at the Viator website using this link: book the tour here.

Dress Comfortably

The tour involves a lot of walking, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and bring along a jacket or umbrella, depending on the forecast.

Bring a Camera

You’ll get many opportunities to take photos of the stunning scenery and the filming locations, so be sure to bring a camera or smartphone with a good camera.

Be Prepared for the Pub Stop

The tour includes a stop at a traditional English pub where you can enjoy lunch. The cost of the drinks is not included in the tour price, so be sure to bring cash or a credit card to pay for your drinks.

Conclusion

If you’re a fan of Downton Abbey and want to experience the real-life filming locations, the Downton Abbey and Cotswolds tour is a must-do. Be sure to book in advance, dress comfortably, bring a camera, and be prepared for the pub stop. With these tips, you’ll have a fantastic experience and create lasting memories of your trip to Oxford.

The Top Frequently Asked Questions About Oxford

Oxford is a charming city located in south-central England, famous for its world-renowned university and historical architecture. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been here multiple times, there can be some questions that might come across your mind about the city. So, in this blog post, we’ll cover the top frequently asked questions about Oxford.

1. What Is Oxford Famous For?

Oxford is famously known for its prestigious university, the University of Oxford, which was established in the 12th century and is one of the oldest universities in the world. The city is also renowned for its historical and striking architecture, including Radcliffe Camera, the Bridge of Sighs, and The Sheldonian Theatre. Oxford also serves as a location for some scenes of the popular movie series Harry Potter.

2. How Can I Get to Oxford?

Oxford is located approximately 60 miles northwest of London, making it easily accessible. The city is well-connected by road or rail, with trains running frequently from Paddington and Marylebone Stations in London, with an average journey time of around 1 hour. There are also direct coach services available from a number of places, including London Victoria Coach Station, Oxford Bus Station, or the Heathrow Airport.

3. What’s the Best Time to Visit Oxford?

Oxford has a mild climate and can be visited at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit Oxford is from May to September when the weather is warmer and perfect for sightseeing. This is also the peak tourist season and you can expect larger crowds around the city.

4. What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in Oxford?

Oxford is a city with several historical monuments, museums, and attractions. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Oxford:

• The University of Oxford
• The Ashmolean Museum
• The Pitt Rivers Museum
• The Bodleian Library
• Christ Church College

5. Is Oxford Expensive to Visit?

Oxford is not as expensive to visit as London, but it can be pricey in terms of accommodation, especially during the peak tourist season. However, you can find cheaper accommodation options like hostels, guesthouses or even Airbnb properties. Some attractions like the Oxford museums are free to visit, and you can find reasonable restaurants around the city.

6. What Are the Best Places to Eat in Oxford?

Oxford has a lively food scene with several restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Here are some of the best places to eat in Oxford:

• The Eagle and Child
• Lewis’s Café
• The Rusty Bicycle
• The Missing Bean
• The Oxford Kitchen

7. Can I Visit Oxford University?

Yes, you can visit Oxford University colleges and experience a little of what life is like for the students. You can explore some of the university museums and historic buildings that are open to the public. However, note that some parts of the campus are only accessible to the members of the university.

8. What’s the Nightlife Like in Oxford?

Oxford has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, pubs, and nightclubs offering a wide range of drinks, music, and entertainment. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a cozy traditional pub or an upbeat nightclub. Some of the popular spots include The Varsity Club, The Turf Tavern, and The Bridge.

Conclusion

Oxford is an ideal city to visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, and education. Whether you are a student or a traveler, you can find plenty to do and see in Oxford. From the university colleges and museums to the historical landmarks and vibrant nightlife, this city has something for everyone. We hope the answers to these frequently asked questions about Oxford will help you plan your trip to this remarkable city.