Highclere Castle, Newbury (Berkshire)

19th Century castle situated in Berkshire, set in parkland with a unique Egyptian exhibition, antiques and works of art.

Summary

18th century buildings
No smoking
Guided tours
Gift shop
Learning facilities
Gardens
Woodland walks
Free car parking (on site)

Food and Drinks

Tea Room

Introduction

Highclere Castle has been the ancestral home of the Earls of Carnarvon since 1679. In the 1830's the 3rd Earl commissioned Sir Charles Barry to transform the original Georgian house into the castle it is today.

Visit the great hall, staterooms, bedrooms and library which have many antiques including Napoleon's desk and chair and famous portraits by Van Dyck. The castle cellars are now home to an Egyptian exhibition which includes the family’s collection of Egyptian antiquities. Part of the exhibition tells the story of how the 5th Earl discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun, ‘The Boy King’ after a 16 year excavation.

The castle is frequently used for photo shoots, film and television programmes including the popular ITV's Downton Abbey.

History to the present day

The castle itself stands on the site of an earlier house, which in turn was built on the foundations of the medieval palace owned by the Bishops of Winchester. The present day castle was designed in 1842 by Sir Charles Barry, the architect also responsible for building the Houses of Parliament in Westminster, London.

Food and Drinks

The tea rooms are open from 11.00am to 5.00pm and offer morning coffee, light lunches and afternoon teas all made freshly at the castle.

Grounds and gardens

The 1000 acres of parkland with its massive cedars was inspired by ‘Capability’ Brown. The gardens include the monks’ garden, the secret garden and a new arboretum.

Other facilities

Gift shop and private tours available.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: , Berkshire, , United Kingdom

Directions: From the A34 take exit for Highclere. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto A343 heading to M4/Oxford/A34/Highclere and follow the brown tourist signs, turning left and then right.

Opening times: 13th-16th October, 4th-7th December 2011.

Check with the castle for 2012 opening times.

More photos of Highclere Castle, Newbury

Ceiling

Library

Egyptian Exhibition