Christmas is undoubtedly a wonderful time of year, but there’s no denying it gets a bit repetitive with the same decorations, traditions, and family quarrels. This year, liven up your Christmas season by celebrating like few have before — at England’s Highclere Castle, made famous by Downton Abbey. The Christmas Ball at Downton Abbey, run by Premium Tours, will allow guests to travel back in time to the early-20th century and into the backdrop of their favorite TV series.
Photo: Highclere Castle/Facebook
Ring in Christmas With a Festive Ball at the Castle From Downton Abbey
Visitors will be bussed to the castle from London’s Victoria Coach Station and instantly immersed in the world of Christmas past. Premium Tours paints a picture of your first impression upon approaching the castle: “Driving up the long winding entrance, guests will notice the avenue of small Christmas trees ushering us towards the imposing doorway, behind which is a warming open fire and giant decorated tree.”
The evening will begin with Champagne and canapes in the saloon, and guests are free to explore the grounds, including the drawing room, music room, and smoking room. A three-course dinner, complete with local produce and an abundance of wine, will be served in the library, capped off by Christmas carols and a raffle. Guides will be on hand all night to provide historical context and answer questions about the castle’s furniture and paintings, as well as its role as the setting of Downton Abbey.
Neil Wootton, CEO of Premium Tours, told Lonely Planet, “The festive celebration at Highclere Castle is one of the highlights of our calendar helping everybody to pause for a while and get into the Christmas spirit.”
The Ball takes place on December 15 from 4:00 PM to 1:00 AM, including the return trip to London. Last-minute tickets are still available at around $150 per person. 
H/T: Lonely Planet