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Explore Britain’s Great Homes, Gardens and Gin

Step inside the iconic British estates well known to PBS viewers, including Highclere Castle, the “real Downton Abbey”; Wolf Hall’s Broughton Castle; and Chavenage House, better known as Trenwith in Poldark. Beyond these impressive homes, learn the story behind the legendary Bombay Sapphire gin at its historic distillery.

Video Transcript

  • Explore several of Britain's most loved country estates on this exclusive extension, with Viking.

  • Oxford, a city known for its prestigious university, will be your base for four unforgettable days.

  • You might recognize Downton Abbey, the fictional estate on PBS masterpiece, sponsored by Viking.

  • In real life, it's beautiful.

  • Highclere Castle, the Jacobethan creation of noted architect Sir Charles Barry, who also designed the House of Parliament.

  • Beyond the rooms everyone knows is a treasure in Highclere's basement, a rare collection documenting the 5th Earl's Egyptian expedition that discovered King Tutankhamun's tomb.

  • Outside, the castle's expansive gardens include many of the botanicals used to make Highclere Castle's exclusive gin.

  • Nearby is the historic home of another legendary gin, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery.

  • Here you'll learn about their distinctive botanical ingredients and influence on the character of Bombay's taste.

  • Select your botanicals and create your own aroma profile to help you better understand the complexity of Bombay's vapor infusion distillation process that's used to create this unusual spirit.

  • Medieval Broughton Castle is another gem, home to the Fiennesfamily, which includes the great explorer and author Sir Ranulph Fiennes.

  • This fascinating estate was part of the PBS masterpiece mini series Wolf Hall.

  • Broughton Castle also played an important role in the Oscar winning movie Shakespeare in Love.

  • During your private viewing, be sure to enjoy the ladies gardens, perfectly manicured since the 1890s.

  • Next up, Chavenage House, better known as Trenwith in another PBS period drama, Poldark.

  • Built in 1576 in the Elizabethan style, the home has retained much of its original charm.

  • You'll be warmly welcomed by friendly family members who share tales of the home's storied past.

  • And if you're lucky, enjoy some of that delicious homemade marmalade.

  • But as you explore, keep an eye out because some say Chavenage is haunted.

  • Then it's on to the gardens of Highgrove House, the private home of their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.

  • This Georgian home, nestled in the Cotswolds, is relatively new.

  • Built in the 18th century, its idyllic gardens are what truly sets the home apart.

  • A haven created by His Royal Highness, who once stated my aim has always been to try and enhance the setting of the house in the landscape and above all, to please the eye, warm the heart and feed the soul.

  • As you make your way between England's great homes and gardens on this relaxing, fully escorted adventure.

  • You'll pass through some of Britain's most picturesque landscapes and quaint villages.

  • Before returning each evening to the comfort of your elegant hotel tucked away in the heart of historic Oxford.

  • Our UK Great Homes, Gardens and Gin an extension has been thoughtfully curated to provide an unparalleled window into the lives and responsibilities of the British nobility.

  • And with Viking's privileged access, you'll experience these delightful country homes in a way most never will.

  • It's a great way to extend your travels with Viking.