The Oxfordshire Cotswolds and its picturesque villages frequently appeared in the popular TV drama Downton Abbey. Visit the filming locations across Oxford; see the home of the Crowley’s and let your imagination bring you back into the early 1900s fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey.
Bampton
The charming village of Bampton was used to film the village of ‘Downton’ and is therefore one of the most popular places to visit for Downton Abbey fans.
Fans should especially recognise the St. Mary the Virgin Church situated at the centre of an ancient parish, as this church was used in various occasions during the series. It was the place where Lady Mary married Matthew Crawley and also the place where sweet baby Sibyls christening took place. Visitors can see backstage pictures from the filming, hanging on the entrance walls of the church. Opposite site the church you will find the Grantham Arm, which resembled the lodge where Branson stayed after he was dismissed from his chauffeur job.
When enjoying the view from the church you should be able to recognise the area as the entrance to ‘Downton Village’. A few metres away from the church is Churchgate House, a Grade II listed building, which resembled the outside of Isobel Crawley’s house in the TV drama.
Another recognisable venue in Bampton is the gate next to the town library, also known as the entrance to the cottage hospital of ‘Downton’.
Rotherfield Greys
Located in Rotherfield Greys you will find Greys Court, a magnificent Tudor House. This Manor House appeared in the series when the Crawley family visited the property, known to them as ‘Eryholme’.
Shilton
The Old Forge was used as ‘The Red Lion’ public house in the village of Kirbymoorside, where Bates was found working as a barman.
Swinbrook
The Swan Inn can be recognised as the place where Lady Sybil and Branson stayed before their attempt to elope to Gretna Green.
Cogges Manor Farm
Cogges Manor Farm, an Ancient Monument with over 1000 years of history, located close to Witney, was also used as a film location. For the TV drama Cogges was transformed into Yew Tree Farm.