Oxford, Bampton & Highclere Castle – 10 hour tour

It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from the centre of London to Oxford, the City famous for the oldest University in the English speaking world.

The University comprises of different colleges which are essentially communities of students. Most of the colleges are enclosed by a large wall within which you can see dormitories, a dining hall, library and chapel. In terms of architecture and arrangement, the colleges are very similar so we will visit one, usually New College. If you are interested in the Harry Potter movie series, then a few scenes were shot at this college. In addition to the colleges, there are the libraries and schools to visit and, of course, time for souvenir shopping.

Either lunch in Oxford or en-route to Bampton, about 30 minutes away. Bampton is a village in the Cotswolds where some exterior scenes of the hugely popular television drama serial, Downton Abbey are filmed. About 30 minutes in Bampton for photographs. From Bampton to Highclere Castle takes about one hour.

Set in 1000 acres of parkland, Highclere Castle is home to the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. The present stately home was built in 19th Century by Charles Barry (architect of the Houses of Parliament in London). Highclere has been home to the Carnarvon family since 1679. It was the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, with Howard Carter, that discovered the tomb of the Egyptian boy pharaoh, Tutankhamen in 1922. There is a small Egyptology exhibition within the house. The magnificent stately home is more famous as the Earl of Grantham’s home, Downton Abbey. About 2 hours to visit Highclere and from here to central London is approximately 2 hours.