Among castles and noble residences with 'Downton Abbey'

(by Ida Bini) 'Downton Abbey 3. The Grand Finale' is the latest chapter of the successful English film saga created by Julian Fellowes, where noble residences, atmospheres From yesteryear, princely clothes and family stories intertwine against the backdrop of the English countryside. It is a tribute to the style of British aristocratic life, where the settings play a important role, embodying the soul of rural England. The film story takes place in Yorkshire, the location of the Downton estate, but actually the locations used for the film are scattered in stately homes, picturesque villages and estates agricultural between London and the south-west of England. Here is a behind-the-scenes tour of the film, an invitation to explore the treasures of the English heritage that formed the backdrop to this drama historical figure that has now become a cult, both at the cinema and on TV. starts from Highclere Castle, the beating heart of Downton Abbey: located on the Hampshire-Berkshire border, an hour and a half away drive west of London, this majestic 19th century castle century has lent its gardens, facades, living rooms and monumental staircase to the family's fictitious estate The main character is the Crawleys. Today, the castle is open year-round. to the public for visits to the great hall, the library, the dining room and some of the Crawleys' bedrooms: it is It is also possible to walk in the gardens or have a tea afternoon. The village of Downton Abbey is actually Bampton, in Oxfordshire, about thirty kilometres west of Oxford, a quiet English town typical of the Cotswolds. Its picturesque alleys, honey-colored limestone buildings and the timeless atmosphere has given life to the community around to the Crawley family. St Mary's Church (St Michael's Church in the film and TV series) with its square tower is the church parish where weddings, funerals and ceremonies take place baptisms that dot the plot. Many scenes were filmed in Bampton: from quarrels between the villagers to whispered confessions in the church pews and at the lively conversations outside the village shop. This is where you they also find the servants in their rare moments of freedom and where the destinies of many characters intertwine. The meetings of the organizing committee of the fair, instead, were turn into the discreet Portal Memorial Hall, in Burghclere, About 20 km from Highclere. To film the scenes at Grantham House, the Crawleys' London residence, Basildon was chosen Park, an elegant Palladian house built in 1770 in Berkshire, just 10km from Reading and an hour's drive from London. Designed in a classic style, the house stands out for its perfect symmetry, harmonious proportions and sumptuous living rooms decorated with gilding. Basildon Park, also managed by the National Trust, is always open to the public for visits to the sumptuous rooms used in Downton Abbey, such as the large living room, the staircase, the library and the dining room with the its large tapestries. The exterior of Grantham House is actually the sumptuous Bridgewater House, a neoclassical residence framed by Corinthian columns in St. James's, central London. Another location is Claydon House, a refined residence in the Buckinghamshire, northwest of London, where they were filmed the interior scenes of Petersfield House, the film house of an important figure of high society. Claydon House is open to the public only in summer where you can recognize a ballroom and a magnificent staircase. Among other locations also the Richmond Theatre, an architectural jewel in the Southwest of London, an iconic place and a splendid setting for the world refined of British high society. It is a masterpiece of the Edwardian Baroque style, a few steps from the Thames, with a majestic facade, wrought iron balconies and richly decorated interiors decorated with gilding, red velvet and frescoes. Although it is still in operation, the theatre opens its doors to guided tours on stage and in the dressing rooms. Some scenes take place in the heart of the London's West End, especially in upscale Piccadilly Arcade, used for a shopping sequence. Inaugurated in 1909, the gallery is a covered passage in Edwardian style very elegant with its neat windows, marble arches, the ironwork and the hanging lanterns. It is a place of passage, but also of social meetings. Among the addresses London also has Fortnum & Mason, the iconic department store symbolizing timeless elegance and refinement English. Founded in 1707, it is renowned for its products of luxury, its sumptuous baskets and exceptional tea. 45 Jermyn Street Café is a venue in the heart of aristocratic London, where Lady Mary and Lady Edith meet in the film: visit it means reliving the aristocratic elegance of the capital. the scene in which the two women are walking around London, however, is was filmed in Waterloo Gardens, St James: the manicured lawns, the Shaded paths and flower beds make it a place popular with local residents who hold the key. Finally, the iconic horse racing scenes of Ascot, unmissable event for British high society, were filmed at Ripon Racecourse in Yorkshire, one of the most Ancient Northern England. Visit Ripon Racecourse. means immersing yourself in the atmosphere of British racing and walk in the footsteps of the film's characters. From London, several tours leave that touch the symbolic places of the shots, starting from the majestic Highclere Castle, heart of the series, open to the public for limited periods between April and September. Many agencies organize excursions daily trips that link Highclere Castle, the enchanting village of Bampton and Cogges Manor farm. Some itineraries also include stops in the Cotswolds or Oxford, for a complete immersion in English rural elegance. For those who Looking for a more intimate experience, tours are also available private with driver, while the more passionate can opt for for a multi-day trip, such as those organized by Lynott Tours that include other historic sites related to Downton Abbey.