Highclere Castle opens its doors to the passengers of the Belmond British Pullman

After the 52 episodes of the hit series, Downton Abbey, the edifice in the Jacobean style, overlooking an estate of 405 hectares, in the British county of Berkshire, will once again be in the spotlight, on the 25th of September 2019, when the film is released. It's for this special occasion that the Belmond British Pullman train has announced an immersive experience at the heart of Highclere Castle.

The Belmond British Pullman makes its entrance at Highclere Castle

The doors of this 19th century castle will be exceptionally open for its passengers, on the 18th of March and the 23rd of September 2020. After a superb brunch at Victoria Station, guests will have the privilege of benefitting from a guided visit of the reception rooms and the enchanting gardens, imagined by landscapist Capability Brown, in presence of the Count and Countess of Carnavon, who reside on the premises.

Elaborate woodwork, imposing arcades, visitors are enchanted right from the entrance. © DR

Over the centuries, this formal reception room, with old-fashioned columns and stainglass windows, has welcomed the entire English nobility. © DR

After the visit, time for revelry

Formal dining room, Gothic living room, upholstered with Cordova leather and Italian tapestries, huge bookshelves, paintings of family members, equestrian trophies, Egyptian antiques—the venue is fascinating. And that's not all, on the return trip to London, a champagne reception will take place, followed by a dinner, to close off the event on a high note.

It's on this red sofa of the library that the Countess of Carvanon settles to work on her blog. © DR

Departing from London, the Belmond British Pullman runs through the entire countryside, until Wales. © DR