Bampton is a charming village in Oxfordshire that has become famous worldwide thanks to its role as Downton Village in the television series Downton Abbey. It’s a place where history, film magic, and beautiful countryside come together, making it a fantastic destination for tour lovers. Whether you’re a Downton fanatic, a lover of classic British countryside, or someone curious about the real-life stories behind the series, Bampton offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and budgets.
One of the most popular options is a Private Downton Abbey Day Tour, including Pub Lunch, which offers an intimate experience exploring the village, Highclere Castle, and enjoying a traditional pub meal. If you’re eager to see more of the Downton locations, other options include tours that also visit Highclere Castle or explore the Cotswolds scenery, like the Downton Abbey in the Cotswolds Tour. For fans who want a more flexible experience, a Harry Potter or Downton Abbey Private Tour offers a brief, guided visit to some key sites.
Below, we’ll break down each of these top-rated tours, highlighting what makes each one special — whether it’s the detailed guides, the exclusive access, or the picturesque countryside. Let’s get started.
1. Private Downton Abbey Day Tour, including Pub Lunch
This private tour is designed for a small group or individual travelers who want an immersive Downton Abbey experience with the personal touch. For around $713.91 per person, you get a full nine-hour day, starting with a pickup in London. The tour includes stops at Bampton, the real Downton village, where you’ll explore with a guided walk, shop, or take photos. Afterward, a short drive takes you to Highclere Castle—the iconic filming location—where you’ll enjoy a guided tour and free time to soak in the atmosphere.
What makes this tour stand out is the detailed storytelling from your knowledgeable guide, who shares behind-the-scenes secrets and the real history of these locations. The tour also includes a traditional pub lunch at The Trout in Tadpole Bridge, enhancing the authentic British experience. The logistics are well planned, with black cabs providing efficient transport between locations, making the day smooth and stress-free.
Based on reviews, travelers love the personalized service and the ability to see Downton sites without feeling rushed. One reviewer said, “Michael our guide was amazing. He was knowledgeable and fun to be with.” This tour is ideal for Downton fans who want a private, detailed experience and are happy to spend a bit more for exclusivity and comfort.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a tailored, small-group adventure that combines Downton sites with a genuine pub lunch, this private tour offers both intimacy and in-depth insight.
2. Private Downton Abbey Day Tour, including Highclere Castle
For about 9 hours, this tour takes you deeper into the Downton universe, focusing on Highclere Castle, Bampton, and Witney’s Cogges Manor Farm. Starting with a pickup in London, the day includes visits to three of the most iconic Downton locations, with a highlight being the guided tour of Highclere Castle—the real castle used as the series’ grand estate.
This tour emphasizes the behind-the-scenes stories from a passionate guide, making it perfect for fans eager to learn more about the filming locations and the castle’s history. The itinerary includes time at Cogges Manor Farm, which served as Mr. Drew’s farm in the show, adding context to the rural scenes you see on screen.
Like the previous tour, transport is via black cabs, with about 1.5 hours of driving each way, ensuring a comfortable journey. The tour concludes back in London, making it a convenient day trip. It’s well-rated for its comprehensive coverage of the series’ key sites, with a perfect mix of filming locations and authentic local sights.
The major advantage here is the focus on Highclere Castle, with a detailed guided tour and free time to explore. Reviewers find this tour offers excellent value, especially for those interested in the real history behind the series.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want to focus on Highclere Castle and the series’ rural locations, with expert insights and fewer stops.
3. Harry Potter or Downton Abbey Private Tour
If your interests extend beyond just Downton, this private tour offers a succinct, flexible 9-hour visit suited for up to 7 people, for around $1,010.25 per group. It covers Highclere Castle for two hours and Bampton for an hour, emphasizing the core sites from the series. This tour is less about sightseeing breadth and more about a personalized, in-depth experience.
A key benefit is the customization, with a knowledgeable guide who can tailor the visit according to your interests. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics seamless. This tour is best for travelers who want a quick, high-quality visit without multiple locations, focusing on the essence of the Downton experience.
Guests who have taken this tour mention the guide’s expertise and how this intimate approach makes the day feel special. Since it’s private and flexible, it suits small groups or families who value time and personalized attention.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who prefer a tailored, quick immersion into Downton sites with the convenience of private transport.
4. Private Downton Abbey Day In The Cotswolds Tour
This tour offers a broader look at the Cotswolds countryside—famous for its rolling hills, charming villages, and historic farms—famous for scenes from Downton Abbey. For about $1,279.64, you’ll visit Mr Drew’s Farm, where you learn about the real farm that inspired the series, and enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a standout Cotswolds pub.
Starting in London, the day includes visits to Swinbrook and Swinbrook Lunch, Burford, and Shilton, with guided walks and free time at each stop. The highlight is exploring Downton Village and meeting locals who live there, giving a sense of the real community behind the series’ backdrop.
This tour balances scenery, authentic village visits, and Downton locations, making it great for travelers interested in countryside charm and local life. The detailed itinerary includes multiple stops with enough time to explore and photograph.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers praise the friendly guides and the experience of walking through real Downton scenery. However, keep in mind the longer travel time from London—about 2 hours—so it’s best suited for those ready for a full day out.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive countryside experience that combines Downton filming locations with village visits and local charm, this tour fits the bill.
How to Choose
When selecting the best tour in Bampton, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. If a private, personalized experience with a pub lunch is your goal, the first tour (Private Downton Abbey Day Tour, including Pub Lunch) offers intimacy and detailed storytelling. For those eager to see Highclere Castle in depth, the second option (including Highclere Castle) provides a comprehensive series walk-through.
Travelers on a tighter schedule or with a budget might prefer the Harry Potter or Downton Abbey Private Tour, which offers flexibility and private attention. Conversely, if countryside scenery and village life appeal, the Downton Abbey in the Cotswolds Tour delivers a scenic, authentic experience.
Practical tips include booking early in peak season (spring and summer) to secure availability, especially for private or small-group tours. Consider your fitness level—the tours involve walking and some uneven terrain—so comfortable shoes are advisable.
Final thoughts: Whether you’re a dedicated Downton fan seeking an in-depth, private experience or someone who wants to enjoy a scenic Cotswolds day with film locations included, Bampton offers a variety of tours that can match your interests. For a personalized and focused visit, the first two options provide detailed insights and exclusive access. For scenic countryside and village charm, the Cotswolds tour is a wonderful choice. Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred date, especially during busy seasons.
No matter which tour you pick, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of the real stories behind the beloved series and some unforgettable views of England’s classic countryside.
