Next month I am going on the 14 day tour of England, ending on 10/5. As a Downton Abbey fan, I wanted to fit on Highclere Castle, but saw that days it was open ended on 9/5. Then I saw that there is a fall festival at the castle on 10/5 and 10/6.
I bought a ticket for the festival yesterday for $57 USD, with house access starting @ 2:30.
Just an FYI in case anyone else is interested.
I will be in England mid-September, too. Highclere was definitely on my list and I was so disappointed to find that it will be closed. Unfortunately, I will be back home by October, but I’m glad you have found a way to see it.
I’m really surprised they close so early in the year. Downtown Abbey must have filled the coffers pretty well :)
I was delighted to be able to visit Highclere in 2018--it was on the last day they were open for the season for tours, right around the first week of September, so that must be a schedule they have had for years now. I must say that day stands out as one of my most enjoyed anywhere--I had 3 hours at Highclere so explored the grounds and the house thoroughly, and my guided day trip included time in Bampton and also at Cogges Manor farm, which was used for Yew Tree Farm in the show--I got to see places I wouldn't have accomplished on my own. The festival sounds like a wonderful way to see Highclere, enjoy!
" I’m really surprised they close so early in the year. Downtown Abbey must have filled the coffers pretty well :)"
Outside the major tourists hotspots such as London etc, the end of the Oct half term traditionally signals the end of the season and many places shut until Easter the following year. Its also not unusual for places with lower footfall to shut at the end of September.
That aside Highclere compared to other similar places for what ever reason has a limited season. From what I understand it is not somewhere that is heavily reliant on tourist income.
When in the UK/Europe its best to express dates as DD/MM, otherwise you run the risk of getting in a pickle when booking tickets etc.
