Visiting the Iconic Downton Abbey

Since middle school, Downton Abbey has been my introduction to British dramas, accompanying me through the seasons as I experienced the joys and sorrows of its characters and the grandeur of the estate. Today, I finally got to see it in person. Tips: The real name of Downton Abbey is Highclere Castle. I booked my tickets two months in advance on the castle's official website. The castle is only open for two to three months during the summer. To get there from London, you can take a train from Paddington Station to Newbury Station, which takes about an hour. From the station, you can take a taxi (or share one with others) for about 20 minutes to reach Downton, costing around 20 pounds. Keep the driver's number handy to call for a pick-up when you're almost done touring. Photography is not allowed inside the castle as the current owners still reside there, dining and sleeping in the castle, making it a home rather than a museum, as the staff mentioned. It's a must-visit for any Downton Abbey fan traveling to the UK. #DowntonAbbey #UK