Downton Abbey and Oxford

Monday brought an early day, and two crazed girls trying to find Victoria Coach station. (note to self, just because it has coach stops for tours outside, doesn't make it the coach station) After much running around (pre-caffienne) - and several Skype calls from our mobiles, we finally found Dave, our tour guide for the day, at gate 6 of the Victoria Coach station. We made the ride out of London to Oxford, our first stop of the day. I wasn't sure what to expect - and boy was it FREEZING! Oxford was so lovely, even if I couldn't feel my toes. We walked through Christ Church College, and got the see the bits where Harry Potter was filmed. As well as the Bridge of Sighs, the skyway joining two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane. During our free time to explore, we made tracks to the covered market to a lovely restaurant called Georgina's for some tea, coffee, and breakfast/lunch, not to mention a thaw out.

Back to the coach to head to the best part of the day, Highclere Castle! Otherwise known to all as Downton Abbey! What a beautiful ride we had on the way up, watching to castle appear over the hill. It was absolutely the highlight of my day. Apparently, we weren't the only ones with that thought, and had to wait in lines to see many of the rooms, but it was worth it. Peaking into Lady Cora's bedroom or the Lord's study, I have to admit was surreal. Walking the same stairs, seeing the same entrance. Granted it does look much grander on television, but don't get me wrong, it was pretty awe inspiring. The kitchen scenes are filmed at a studio, so you won't see them. But you will see a good portion of the bedrooms, and common areas, which showcase many photos of the current Earl and Countess in residence.

Seems like someone may have been spending the night in Lady Edith's room, we totally spotted the hair dryer on the vanity table. And I KNOW Lady Edith didn't leave it there. Strolling the grounds was just lovely, and it was lambing season, so the babies were out in full force. Just a word to the wise, if you are planning on making this a stop on your next trip, book early! They sell out MONTHS in advance!