So I have this friend who’s a fan of Downton Abbey. I mean, she’s super hooked on this family saga drama and wants to visit the filming location.
At first, I’m like, is there even a Downton Abbey on Google Maps? Turns out it’s Highclere Castle! Don’t laugh at me as I don’t watch such.
She came to me because she knows I’ll be so down on hitting the road. Well, she’s right! Our plan? I’ll make the itinerary, and she’ll take care of everything. Fair deal, right?
If you’re also planning a day trip from London to Downton Abbey, no stress! Check out some great stops we had that completed our experience!
Best time to go
The best time to visit Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle) is April and May if you want to avoid crowds. The spring season gives the perfect weather to walk around and see the flowers starting to bloom.
You can also opt in from July to September since the garden is usually open to the public during these months. However, expect heavy crowds due to the summer rush.
How long does it take to drive from London to Downton Abbey
The drive from London to Downton Abbey typically takes 1 to 2 hours, with an approximate distance of 66 miles.
Popular route option
- Via M4: The fastest route is via M4, which takes you through Winchester and has an estimated travel time of 1 hour and 54 minutes.
- Via A4: This is a scenic drive in Hampshire, which is roughly 2 hours of travel, expanding to 74.5 miles.
What to do along the route from London to Downton Abbey
Visit Windsor Castle
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Address: Windsor
Contact Details: 03031237304
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:15 PM
Just a 10-minute detour from the M4 junction, you’ll reach Windsor Castle, the largest and oldest castle in the world.
You can stop here for 1 to 2 hours, depending on your preferences. You’ll see the stunning architecture of the castle and see where Queen Elizabeth II and other royal family members were buried.
Walking in the castle grounds or garden is also allowed, giving you a gorgeous view of the River Thames.
If you’re the lucky one, you’ll even witness the changing of the guard at 11:00 AM. Marching bands and colourful ceremony feels very royal!
Shop at The Natural History Museum Shop
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Address: The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd, South Kensington
Contact Details: 02079425000
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
The Natural History Museum Shop is an ideal quick stop located inside the museum. It’s a “quick stop” if you won’t hoard because it’s literally a collection full of temptations like plush toys, fossil kits, and lots of books!
Aside from that, they also have museum-vintage prints and genuine fossils. This is a win if you’re a museum person or looking for some collectables.
If you want to save time, you can go directly to the Hintze Hall, where their main shop is. Roaming around the building will sidetrack you, and the next thing you know, it’s been hours!
Stretch your legs at Basildon Park in Reading
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Address: Lower Basildon, Reading
Contact Details: 01491672382
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
If you want a quieter stop that looks like Downton Abbey, Basildon Park is a must. It’s an old yet famous landmark, especially for those who’ve watched dramas filmed here.
This park is featured in Pride & Prejudice as Netherfield Park, specifically in the grand ball scene, which was filmed in the dining room. You can also spot its formal garden on Bridgerton (Penelope and Colin scene in Series 3).
However, the best way to spend time here is for leg stretching. The park has an open lawn and a nearby cafe to sit back and relax before driving again.
Take a look at Donnington Castle
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Address: Donnington Castle Farm Cottage, Castle Ln, Donnington, Newbury
Contact Details: 03703331181
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Donnington Castle is a famous ruin in the Northern part of Newbury. It’s also perfect for a quick 30-minute stretch and picture taking.
You’ll see the three-storey guesthouse with two circular towers. Take this chance to pose for a great photo of the building. It’s indeed a great flex in social media!
Also, you’ll find traces of the original courtyard in the area. If you have a drone, you’ll appreciate the aerial view more.
The entry is free, but heads up, there are no toilets or nearby stores.
Take your time at Highclere Castle
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Address: Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury
Contact Details: 01635253210
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM (except Friday and Saturday)
For the last stop, the destination itself is Highclere Castle. This famous country house in England has been featured in different dramas and series like Jeeves and Wooster, and of course, Downton Abbey.
Inside this grand house, there are Spanish-inspired state rooms, fancy music rooms, and an Egyptian exhibition. To see these, you need to purchase a timed-entry ticket that also includes garden access.
Don’t forget to visit their Coach House Tearoom and Gift Shop for refreshments and souvenirs.
Where to eat along the route to Downton Abbey
Honest Burgers Baker Street
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Address: 31 Paddington St
Contact Details: 02045424725
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Pricing: £10–20 per person
Honest Burgers Baker Street offers steak-like burgers. We recommend getting their unminced beef partnered with pancetta, caramelised onions, and Emmental Francais Grand Cru cheese. It’s really delicious and filling, perfect before going on another drive.
If you’re on a diet, they also have vegan burgers. Their burgers cost £15.25, including a side like onion rings. Although you can find some of their branches around London, this burger is only available in their Baker Street branch.
Dining here gives you a modern rustic vibe. The restaurant is also dog-friendly.
Harvester Montague Arms Slough
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Address: Berkshire, 374 London Rd, Langley, Slough
Contact Details: 01753543009
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Pricing: £20–30 per person
Famous for their rotisserie chicken, Harvester Montague Arms Slough is a family-friendly stop to consider.
We love their salad bar, completely stocked and very clean! We also liked their halloumi skewers and mixed grills. Plus, they also have a nice dessert menu including sundaes and hot drinks.
If you’re lucky enough, they offer some promos. For instance, a kid can eat for only £1, so if you’re going with children, this is a great deal.
Costa Coffee
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Address: 282 High St, Langley, Slough
Contact Details: 03330035883
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pricing: £1–10 per person
For a kick of caffeine, Costa Coffee has some great drinks. You can also get iced drinks, sandwiches, and some sweets here.
We’re surprised they have various tea options here, like the citrus zing with vitamin C and the Earl Grey tea. We tried their iced latte and fruit coolers, which have that refreshing and balanced sweetness in every sip.
Aside from drinks, they also offer lunch starting from £5.99. So if you’re dropping by between 11 AM and 2 PM, you might want to spend your lunch here.
The Boatman
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Address: 10 Thames Side, Windsor
Contact Details: 01753620010
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Pricing: £20–40 per person
Don’t miss Windsor’s one and only riverside pub, The Boatman. Just right beside the River Thames and below Windsor Castle, you’ll experience British food with modern twists.
They serve la carte meals like Cajun chicken burger, homemade fish cake, and their yummy linguine with toasted veggies. Their set menu, which starts at £31.90, is also a must-try. You’ll get a full starter, mains, and dessert.
Surprisingly, they also have a children’s menu, perfect for families. This includes mini fish and chips, a gourmet burger, and beef bolognese. So, if you’re visiting with kids, no worries because they’re child-friendly with highchairs and
