Downton Abbey fans can now stay in the grounds of Highclere Castle

An 18th-century lodge on the grounds of Highclere Castle has been renovated to be used as holiday accommodation.

London Lodge, Highclere Castle. © Adam Hillier Photography

Berkshire’s Highclere Castle famously doubles as the home of the Crawley family in ‘Downton Abbey’ and fans of the show now have the opportunity to book a stay within the castle grounds as the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon have transformed London Lodge, the entry point to Highclere Park, into a holiday let.

London Lodge, Highclere Castle. © Adam Hillier Photography

Built in 1793 by the first Earl of Carnarvon, London Lodge was constructed to celebrate the Earl’s entry to the peerage. The imposing stone archway with its heavy iron gates, framed a grand entrance for family and visitors alike. The individual lodges, to either side were added later, around 1840.

Over the past two years the lodges have been painstakingly restored to provide unique and luxurious accommodation for two. London Lodge is situated to the north of the estate, with paths and tracks taking guests back through the parkland towards Dunsmere Lake, The Temple of Diana and expansive views of the castle.

The layout for both lodges has been kept simple; to the North West, a charming sitting room arranged around a Chesneys wood burner, and fully equipped kitchen behind. Then across the paved walkway to the bedroom lodge, where a comfortable double bedroom, bathroom and dressing area can be found.