This is the day I’ve been waiting for!  We found out what it’s like behind the scenes of “The Real Downton Abbey”. Home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon since 1679, the private estate opens its doors on a very few occasions offering fans the opportunity to explore the rooms seen on the show; the grand salon where the Dowager Countess held forth, the 5000-book library where the Earl of Grantham conducts business, and the splendid dining room.

Upon arrival we are treated to a display of a working sheep farm as the dogs herded a flock of sheep from one field to another. It’s obvious it was a good year at Highclere with many spring lambs.

We toured the outside of the expansive grounds, with acres of rolling hills dotted with sheep.  The house is magnificent outside and in. Unfortunately we were not aloud to take photos in the house but it was certainly worth the visit.  The antiques are impressive and there are many photos of the Carnarvon family as well as photos of the Downtown Abbey crew at work. After touring the house we went to the cellar to view the artifacts that Lord Canarvon collected when he discovered King Tuts tomb in the Valley of the Kings in Egypt. We drove through the countryside to Needham House, home of William Morris, owner and creator of Morris Minor Car company. His home was fairly simple and full of a collection of antiques from all over the world.  One of the items on display are the cloaks that the Morris’ wore at Queen Elizabeth’s coronation in the 1953. The gardens are magnificent and at this time of the year the blue bells and wisteria are in full bloom

We drove back along the narrow country roads, past the Themes river to the main highway back to London.  It’s the May 1st long weekend so the traffic was a bit slow.

Tonight’s dinner was at Village East Restaurant, a short walk from our hotel. The food and service were excellent.  Another great day on our Great Houses tour.

Overnight: Bermondsey Square Hotel, London