A Night at Highclere Castle
For one night only, Highclere Castle opened its doors to two guests to immerse themselves in the iconic home of Downton Abbey, and learn what life might have been like for the Crawleys.
Super fans Margot and Mascha from the Netherlands were treated like royalty during their stay, with the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon inviting their guests to join them for an exclusive evening in the castle.
The Countess of Carnarvon invited the two ladies to join her for afternoon tea in the glow of the library fire before presenting them with their own signed copies of The Countess’ latest book Christmas at Highclere: Recipes and Traditions from the real Downton Abbey.
It’s an absolute privilege to call Highclere Castle my home and I was delighted to host Margot and Mascha for such a special stay. Christmas is the most magical time of the year here and I am delighted to be able to share it with our guests.
Lady Carnarvon
The ladies enjoyed an evening of cocktails in the Saloon for an exclusive canapé reception beneath the 23ft Christmas tree with cocktails made from Highclere Castle Gin.
This was followed by a traditional three course dinner in the iconic dining room, waited on by Highclere Castle’s team of butlers in coats and tails.
Coffee, liqueurs and chocolates were then served in the library before the guests retired to the Mercia bedroom with views across the Capability Brown parkland and out to Heaven’s Gate.
The following morning Margot and Mascha enjoyed a full English breakfast with the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon in the dining room followed by a private tour of the castle, Egyptian exhibition and gardens.
The company was lovely, the food great and the setting was amazing – the best Airbnb experience ever.
Margot and Mascha
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