There’s nothing quite like exploring one of Britain’s stately homes. But with around 3,000 properties in the UK, it can be hard to choose a favourite.
According to research from Stokemont Party Wall Surveyors, Winston Churchill’s former home, Blenheim Palace is the UK’s most popular stately home.
But several other fantastic properties also made the list. Most recognisable from the popular ITV show, Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle in Hampshire took fifth place.
Although the first records of an estate on the Highclere site date back to 749, Highclere Castle was designed by Sir Charles Barry. The eminent architect also designed the Houses of Parliament.
There are around 300 rooms in the Castle and guests can explore the vast property on a tour of Highclere.
A tourist ‘TheCoopers’ wrote on Tripadvisor: “A really fantastic day out if you love your history and stepping back in time! If you are a keen Downton Abbey fan, you will see the rooms you visit are exactly as they were set up in the TV drama.”
‘Enchantedjean’ said: “Absolutely amazing. Didn’t expect to see so much. It was a bit crowded at times but it didn’t detract from the whole experience.”
Guided tours are available on select dates in January or tourists can wait until Highclere Castle opens to the public in spring.
An adult ticket to explore the castle and grounds costs £22.50 while a child between the age of four and 16 costs £14. Children under four do not require tickets.
Downton Abbey fans are likely to find the experience particularly special as they will be able to see the locations of many of the series’ iconic scenes.
Highclere Castle sits on 1,000 acres of parkland and visitors should keep an eye out for the Etruscan Temple and the cedar tree collection.
