Journey to the Real Highclere Castle in Exclusive Series
The Crawleys are back in Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale — the third film that brings this beloved saga to a close, premiering in theatres next month. As we anticipate the grand finale, we’ll be airing an exclusive series on CET that follows the highs and lows of the current Lord and Lady Carnarvon and their loyal staff at Highclere Castle in England.
Highclere: Behind the Scenes offers exclusive access to the real Highclere Castle as the team strives to make 2023 the estate’s most profitable to date. Lesley Nicol, known for her role as Mrs. Patmore on Downton Abbey, narrates the five-part series as the Lord and Lady navigate the busy calendar with events both home and away.
Highclere: Behind the Scenes will air Sundays, August 24 through September 21, at 7pm on CET. You can also stream all five episodes On Demand with CET Passport: https://watch.cetconnect.org/show/highclere-behind-the-scenes/.
Learn more about the episodes and discover the grand events that are held at the real-life Downton Abbey home every day:
Episode 1
Sunday, August 24, at 7pm on CET and ThinkTV16
After three years of pandemic closures, the renowned house and gardens open their doors for Easter. Lady Carnarvon becomes an unexpected guide for Americans who turn up expecting a private tour of the castle. Head butler Luis, chauffeur Paul and estate manager John prepare for activities during one of the hottest days of spring. Will the busiest weekend of the season pay off for the Carnarvons? Watch it now with CET Passport: https://watch.cetconnect.org/video/episode-101-ZYhGuT/.
Episode 2
Sunday, August 31, at 7pm on CET and ThinkTV16
The Carnarvons and their staff are invited to the premiere of the Downton Abbey sequel, while estate manager John and his team welcome a British TV show broadcasting from the castle’s grand saloon. The show’s visit coincides with the busiest tour day of the year and all rush to dismiss the crew before the first bus arrives. Lady Carnarvon heads to Henley to promote her new book and gin brand. Watch it now with CET Passport: https://watch.cetconnect.org/video/episode-102-7fKbjk/.
Episode 3
Sunday, September 7, at 7pm on CET and ThinkTV16
The Highclere team hosts their first charity gala in three years in the Castle’s iconic library. There will be a shooting competition, a three-course lunch and an auction, but staff shortages shake the team. Grooms Maggie and Sam help out as catering assistants; even John chips in! The Carnarvons launch branded roses with award-winning horticulturist Philip Harkness at the Chelsea Flower Show. Watch it now with CET Passport: https://watch.cetconnect.org/video/episode-103-hewBqA/.
Episode 4
Sunday, September 14, at 7pm on CET and ThinkTV16
It’s summer and the annual Country Show and Battle Proms are approaching. Fireworks, music and an aeronautical display allow the Highclere team to relax. To mark the centenary of the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb, Lady Carnarvon writes a book about her husband’s great-grandfather, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who was involved in the search and excavation. Is Highclere finally back in business? Watch it now with CET Passport: https://watch.cetconnect.org/video/episode-104-O08UN1/.
Episode 5
Sunday, September 21, at 7pm on CET and ThinkTV16
The Highclere team prepares for Christmas. As the castle and grounds transform into a winter wonderland, the team wrestles with their largest tree ever while butler Luis hosts a cocktail class. Privately, Lady Carnarvon gathers loved ones round the Christmas tree. With unique access to the castle, family and the estate, this is Highclere at its holiday best. Watch it now with CET Passport: https://watch.cetconnect.org/video/episode-105-aZKonK/.
We will also be airing the special Journey to Highclere Castle with the Sicilian Tenors on Sunday, September 28, at 7pm on CET and Tuesday, September 30, at 8pm on CET Arts. Tune in as acclaimed international singing sensations perform some of their classic repertoire along with songs from the early 1900s, all from the beautiful Highclere Castle in England. The special also features behind-the-scenes stories and video presentations from within the castle. Watch a preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZCh_ZNAFFs&t=1s.
