Downton 3
Downton 3
Walking through the Wood of Goodwill alongside the curving beech hedge, a scattering of cherry trees hugs a sheltered elbow. In the middle of them is a tulip tree, a gift from my number six sister Georgie and her husband when they were married from here about 14 years ago.
It has, at last, grown to a substantial shape with unique pale leaves furling and unfurling in the eddying breezes which, if you glance back at it as you walk past, almost look as if the tree is in flower; each leaf or underside just tinged a pale yellow colour. Anticipating an early autumn, the air and thus the leaves seem to be constantly moving.
Summer has been so intermittent this year that I hope autumn tarries a little. Leaves are already starting to drop and there are already many berries. The rowans are particularly prolific with their wonderful shades of red.
Looking back, September 2018 marked the arrival of the Downton film crew to spend 2 months making the first Downton Abbey film. Part of the joy of filming at a location such as Highclere is the chance to capture the seasons, to have a natural backdrop against which the Castle sits as a central character, a familiar beautiful backdrop.
Launched into cinemas the following year, it was a huge success, taking first place on weekend box office takings and carrying on towards Christmas as an entertaining family film. That itself is somewhat unique as there seems to be so few films or TV series which generations of a family might sit down together and enjoy.
The Downton journey continued with a second film “Downton A New Era” which premiered in April 2022 and now a third film has been made which will be premiered on 12th September 2025. Positive coincidences are always a happy beacon: if not quite astrological signs, at least good omens.
Some visitors ask if the crew and cast are still here and we explain filming is finished. They are then surprised at the length of time it takes between the end of filming and the date the film reaches the cinemas. However, it is a careful process to prepare, edit and polish the film long after actors have dispersed to other projects. Studios have been booked for editing which you have to fit around and then there is the music which plays such a large part in any film. You only have a play a little of the Downton theme and everyone visibly relaxes and sits back to enjoy themselves.
Of course before the film is released there is all the marketing, trailers, teasers, behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, posters, press releases and social media to entice us into the cinema.
Films are so magical in that they offer us the rare opportunity to imagine, to step into another person’s shoes, to experience a walk of life very different to our own and to see through different eyes. Walk into a cinema, turn off your phone, sit back in a comfy seat, relax your shoulders, breathe and reach for the popcorn. It is a chance to stop thinking about work and all the things that have not been done. The big screen brings to life someone else’s story, whether glamorous or not, and a world far away. Whichever, it is always a treat to gather together with friends or family and leave the everyday behind.
A film like Downton Abbey is as enchanting as it is hopeful – about a community being together and somehow continuing come what may. I for one am certainly looking forward to the cinema and popcorn with some wonderful escapism in a years’ time.
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80 Comments
what a lovely story.
It is so nice to see some of the pictures of Downton Abby. Lord Grantham and Lady Mary are looking great. And you and Georgie are, as always the highlight of your articles.
All the BEST,
john Roberts
Tonawanda, N.Y.
USA
I adore Downton Abbey and
I absolutely cannot wait until the film premieres. I love the setting, the characters, the storylines, it's all wonderful
I've visited Highclere Castle too, it's just magical ✨️
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thanku for the good news, but how sad it is that we have to wait another full year before our next fill of wonderful Downton!
I'm soooo looking forward to a happy time in the darkened cinema, left to enjoy myself among my most favourite Family....
Sending love,
Caroline xx
Filled with anticipation for another Downton Abbey film. Your home is beautiful and I was fortunate to visit years ago.
We are already planning to come to London for the Premiere as we did in 2019. When we had to say goodbye to Downton in 2016 little did we know what adventures were to come. A lovely picture of the two of you enjoying all the excitement.
Lady Carnarvon you must be breathing easier after all the hustle and bustle of the filming is over. Like you I can’t wait for the movie to come out. My wife and I own the complete series and both movies and will add the the newest movie to our collection. Your description of your home and estate make everyone feel as if we are there with you.
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
You have charmed us from the beginning and continue to do so. Thank you.
As a gift from my daughter, I wear a Downton Abbey brooch on my wool jacket lapel and think of you every time I wear it.
She and I will sit together watching Downton 3 thinking of the real Lord and Lady of the House, 007 and his Bond Girl!
With warm and special regards, I thank you for your blog,
Lisa
McLean, VA
My husband is a cancer survivor, during a rough part of his treatment we watched every episode of Downton Abbey. I had already watched the series and watching it again with my husband was a perfect way to escape our worries. When the first movie came out we were in the Theater! Looking forward to Downton 3
I would love to see Julian Fellowes take the Crawley family through WWII up to VE Day. Maybe Downton is part of the network getting refugees and soldiers out of continental occupied Europe with the next generation of Crawleys being involved. Maybe Mark Gregson turns upon Downton's doorstep as a refugee (did they ever find his body? Or did they just find his wallet?). That would complicate Edith's story (ultimately, she has to stay with Bertie though, don't you think?) The possibilities are endless and Julian Fellowes would tell the story so well (if only we could plant the seed)!
Ultimately, none of us is ready to leave Downton/Highclere behind for long! Thank you for sharing it with us!
I can't wait to see Downton 3!
Hello Lady Carnarvon!
I’m so excited for this next Downton Abbey movie. A year does seem a long time to wait but it is something to look forward to with joyful anticipation. Such lovely pictures in your blog today. That tree is gorgeous!
It’s been a scorcher of a summer here in Maryland and most of the East Coast. Looking forward to some cooler autumn days.
Cynthia
A beautiful teaser of things to come! The next adventure. Thank you so much for loaning your elegant and tranquil home. It has made a mark on my life, truly. We have visited twice and pray for a return trip.
Lovely film of Downton Abbey and did you and lord Carnarvon have a wonderful weekend lam fan of Downton Abbey and highcelere castle
Trees are a timeless gift, which turn into a legacy. A lovely present. It is a beautiful tree with perfect shape. By this time filming Downton Abbey at Highclere must be a well rehearsed procedure, with hopefully little or no big surprises. We are certainly looking forward to the result. Wishing you a wonderful Fall.
Alexandra
Germany
Wonderful! The new Downton Abbey film to look forward to! I love your tulip tree as well. We even have them in the southern US. Since childhood, they always been a favorite of mine. Thank you for including it in this week’s message.
I can't wait for the next Downton movie, the entire cast started feeling like family to me. Every week I looked forward to seeing them again and now every movie. I bought the entire series and both movies just to see them. Always hopeful for them all to end up in love and happy. Funny, how attached one can get to characters.
My sweetheart is English but lives in France and we do get to London as he is a freemason at the Grand lodge in London so Highclere is on my bucket list. Hoping next year. What a lovely place, a lot of work I'm sure but a labor of love, for sure. You are a lovely couple so I wish you both all the joy and heart to make it all you've ever dreamed. ❤️
Cheers,
Celeita Breakiron
Tennessee, USA
I loved watching Downton Abby. Such a beautiful property. I had hoped to visit England for my 65 birthday this September and tour Highclere castle. The highlight would b to take tea there, but not to be. Hopefully next year .
What exciting news! Can't wait for the movie next year. I also want to say how very much I enjoy reading your messages. You have such a lovely way with words.
Have a cozy fall,
Katherine Moore
California, USA
I am so looking forward to Oct 5. We will be on a 14 day holiday and planned it around this celebration. We are coming from the US and our holiday is Oxford, Cotswold, Wales, Highclere, London, Paris. Having surgery on Thursday and will be rewatching Dowton during recovery to refresh my memories. :)
My hubby took me for a lovely day when Downtown 2 premiered. High tea at Miramonte Castle here in Colorado Springs, then on to the movie! That was the last one we've seen in the theatre! So excited!
Thank you, Lady Carnarvon, for the exciting update on Downton Abbey.
I have always enjoyed your stories over the years.
Lady Carnarvon......Waiting with anticipation for number three!!!! The journey continues!
We need to transported up the road leading to Downton/Highclere and be engulfed in the drama, the joys and woes, of the family Crawley that live in that wonderful place. Can't wait for the Premiere of Downton 3! Thank you both for sharing your beautiful home with us.
Oh bother! Silly me. I was thinking that the new Downton film was being released sometime this Fall. I was excited. Oh well, that will give me and the family something to look forward to for 2025. On the other hand, I am happy for you and Lord C. and your staff to have things “back to normal” before the upcoming holiday celebrations. I look forward to hearing about the special events and any projects you have going on at the castle. I also hope that you are finding time to be writing your next book!
Suzanne from Georgia (U.S.)
Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for your blog. It is always inciteful. I look forward to seeing the main character of Dowton Abbey (the house) on September 17th. Having a tour, tea and a cocktail. Thank you for opening your beautiful residence. I simply cannot wait!
Wonderful news to have another Downton Abby.
I will be there to experience Highclere in person on September 12 th. We are coming from Richmond Virginia. So looking forward to it
Carol Lynn Forman
Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for updating readers on Downton 3, hopefully not the last! Anticipating the gap between Downton 2 and 3!
So glad to see the tulip tree! We called the blooms on the tree in our backyard “tulip magnolias” since they looked like magnolia blossoms. Are the blooms from your tree similar? Ours were pinkish-purple and beautiful, and bloomed in May and June.
Cool, sunny days are finally here in Cary, NC.
Martha
Downton Abbey was and is the best period drama ever i have watched Downton over and over again season after season can not wait for more
Thank you for the good news. Looking forward to it with great anticipation. Do I not only enjoy the story line but also enjoy your beautiful home. Always enjoy your blogs. Makes me feel as if I am there.
Have a lovely day.
Dear Lady Carnarvon
Looking forward to seeing the next Downton film next year. I have never been able to visit your lovely home but enjoy seeing it on the small or big screen
My husband and I visited Highclere and we loved it. Your home is quite beautiful! Thanks for letting us know about the 3rd film! I treasure the photos you include in your stories - brings me back there!! Thank you!
Thank you so much for opening your home and allowing us to continue to live there vicariously. It is a magical wonderful place to be, vicariously.
Danielle Adams,
Washington State, US
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
I so love the Downton Abbey series and movies. Your house is so incredibly beautiful! Thank you for allowing we Downton Abbey fans into your home. I am looking forward to the next movie.
Respectively
Mollie Blue Raven
Mankato, Minnesota USA
Lovely film Downton Abbey and did you and lord Carnarvon have a wonderful weekend and lam fan of Downton Abbey and lovely visit highcelere castle
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Like a very large number of people I am looking forward to see another visit to Downton Abbey. I have to be honest and say I love the story and the characters but I feel the main star is Highclere. I can't wait to get to see the Castle again. The second time I watched Downton Abbey I could spend a fair bit of time looking passed the actors to admire the rooms etc. Thank you for allowing such upheaval to your home and your daily
life. Take care.
Susan Kearsey
Blessings and much success! A PHENOMENAL cast and crew of such a masterfully crafted television and movie series. Kudos!
Respectfully
Colonel K Brown
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
Thank you for the wonderful news that filming of Downton 3 has been completed. It will seem like forever before it comes to the box office in New Zealand, but a vast number of fans (including my whole family & all my friends) can’t wait. Of course having been to Highclere a couple of times and met you last year, makes it even more special. It’s funny how we can all relate to the characters and the story lines of the TV series and the movies. It’s the complete package - talented writing & direction, stunning venues, brilliant casting, wardrobe and the finishing touch of the right music.
Thank you again for brightening my week with your blog from beautiful Highclere Castle.
Lady Carnarvon,
What a wonderfully, magical place your home is! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of it (via television and in our dreams) through the gift of Downton Abbey.
I hope to one day visit Highclere Castle
Warmest regards,
Angela
Ontario, Canada
Lady Carnarvon,
What a wonderfully, magical place your home is! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of it (via television and in our dreams) through the gift of Downton Abbey.
I hope to one day visit Highclere Castle
Warmest regards,
Angela
Ontario, Canada
I've watched the series 3 or 4 times...as well as the movies. When in England a few years ago some friends drove us to see Highchair Castle, only to find it was closed and we got no farther than the guard on the road. BIG disappointment for me!!! Loved the series and movies. Can't wait for #3!
Lady Carnarvon,
I enjoyed watching Downton Abbey because we were able to tour your lovely home in July 2019, and it was fun seeing the rooms we toured. I imagine that you were able to make repairs, etc., because of the shows/movies being filmed at Highclere. Estates are not easy to maintain, and you have worked hard to do so.
My wife and I visited Highclere some years ago. It was a magical experience. We are so looking forward to seeing the new film.
I need time!!
Thank you..
Looking forward to seeing you
Thank you
And popcorn..
Hopefully it gave you both some time out..
The team are amazing
thank you !
That is exciting news can't wait.
Carolyn T.
Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for the wonderful news:
“Downton Abbey 3”. I have watched and rewatched the previous movies, and can hardly wait for Downton 3! I was in London this past June, hoping to stop to see your beautiful home. Next time though.
Thank you,
Vera Martinez
To be there in September of 2025! What a wonderful beautiful time that would be I have seen absolutely all of Downton Abbey. I introduced my family and friends and I own all of the movies ❤️. I have been caring for my now 93 Year old father at home so it was an escape watching. I worked in a fine dining restaurant downtown Milwaukee for 15 years and owned a restaurant for 25 years. It all comes close to home. proper etiquette and service! This is well written and see something new every time I watch I need to start saving my pennies. Hope my bucket list wish comes true ❤️
I'm so excited for the 3rd movie, I have watched all 6 seasons and the first 2 movies, I have lost count how many times.
.Best wishes from New Zealand just love Downton
What a wonderful story will follow the new film with happy memories of my visit to your beautiful home ,thank you
Good news!
they are reassuring
We smiling with Crawley family and We crying with Crawley family,We finding real Love and We will survive after new Spanish influenza COVID,and We deserve Happy End, best wishes from Bulgaria
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
Thank you for sharing. We love Downtown Abbey here in the states. Countdown is on for the film! Tulip trees are beautiful. My mom's has even flowered again this year. So we have enjoyed its beauty twice this year.
I look forward to visiting your beautiful home in the near future.
Paula
Jamestown, TN
USA
Cannot wait for the film to be released! Not only the great story and its characters but to see your beautiful home.
Lovely Downton Abbey film and did you and lord Carnarvon and lam fan of Downton Abbey calendars and lovely highcelere castle
That was a lovely picture of you and your husband. I look forward to the movie.
A lovely post as always, with gorgeous photos of that tree and the castle as well.
My brother, who lives in Suffolk, has also been saying that there's not been much of a summer in England, and I always used to look forward to Autumn, which, here in Texas, lasts about six weeks or so. ( This doesn't stop the general public from thinking about it from August onwards or the coffee shops selling pumpkin flavoured coffee about the last week of the month either. I am not a fan.). I am also looking forward to the next Downton Abbey film, and have copies of the other two.
Have a lovely week Lady Carnarvon.
Mary L. Mantel
Thank you Lay and Lord C for your update and insights into the up coming Downton Abbey 3. Having to wait a year will be difficult but exciting too. Your videos and tours you give on YouTube if your special home are amazing. I want to visit. Maybe sooner than later. Blessings to you and your family for the upcoming fall season.
Deborah Gestner
Belle Vernon, Pa, USA
( south of pittsburgh)
Dear Lady Carnarvon,
My husband and I have visited Highclere twice. The second time was to attend Heros at Highclere. My husband is a Vietnam Veteran. It was a very special day for us. Ed ( my hubby) wore his Vietnam Veteran's hat. The people were so kind to him and thanked him for his service. It started the healing that he has needed since 1968. I said all that to say THANK YOU for hosting that event. I couldn't remember if I ever said thank you and I didn't want to let it go.
We will be looking forward to the new movie. We have enjoyed the first two very much. Highclere holds a special place in my heart as do you and Lord Carnarvon! I have great pictures with you both to cherish.
Dear Sue
Thank you for your kind words. Your gratitude is hugely appreciated.
With best wishes
Lady Carnarvon
Hello Heather - I was planning another trip back to England in 2025, and now I may try to time it around the premiere! Would you mind sharing any details or tips you might have about doing so? Thank you!
Would love to see the films, but able to get out and about so much nowadays. Maybe there's a cd of it in the shops. Loved it on tv. 'hopeful fir another episode. Ab
Plan to visit England in the next couple of years. I hope Highclere Castle will be open for us to enjoy. My husband and I love Downton and all its characters. Can't wait to see Downton 3!
Bloomingdale, IL
Lady Carnarvon
I have never forgotten the magical afternoon I came to visit you.
You were so gracious and welcoming, we were justcW.I. winners of a competition but you made us feel special. A tour of your wonderful castle and then afternoon tea. You and I talked about the archives of Highclere and how much you would've liked to delve more into them, but couldn't find the time.
Thank you so much.
Mary Wooldridge
Ampthill
Hello,
I love Downton Abbey that much I watch it from start to finish (including the films) twice a year. It gives me a feel good factor and you really do feel part of the family.
I would love to visit Highclere and it’s on my list of places to visit.
Lesley Marshall, Castle Douglas, Scotland
It was really special that I was actually able to visit Downton (Highclere Castle) last summer. It truly was a magical experience.
I came back home and watched all the series and seeing it now as a place that I have actually visited, was really something else.
Eagerly waiting for the next show! But will miss Lady Violet Crawley. Rest in Peace Maggie Smith x
Hello from California,
Just subscribed to your wonderful blog. Downton Abbey is my comfort show. I love the scenery, shots of the castle and surrounding countryside and of course the wonderful music woven throughout the series and movies. I found a play list on Pandora and listen to it whenever I get a chance. I get so wrapped up in the characters that sometimes it's hard to remember that they are all playing a part. They do it so brilliantly. Am so looking forward to next year when the new movie comes out. I am 63 and my one wish is to be able to travel to England and tour the spots that were filmed for the series and movies. Thank you and your wonderful husband for giving us a peek into your beautiful home.
What a magical home you have and thank full that you share it with the world thru Downton Abbey ❤️. I have 2 sets and all of the movies and have watched all so many many times and can't get enough!! So waiting til 2025 will be in total anticipation of what's to come. Would love love love to see more stories and your beautiful home.
Pamela
New Havin Ct.
The best show on TV or big screen. I own of the previous series. Love it
Downton Abbey is the best.
Dear Lady Carnarvon:
Second time, but I do not know how I missed this particular e-mail and apologize for the late reply.
Thank you for this Monday's blog, and to you and Lord Carnarvon for allowing the filming to continue at your home and within the entire Castle's location.
Simply stated, I am excitedly looking forward to Downtown Abbey Three coming to theaters next year.!
Likewise, I am looking forward to the next Season series for television.!
Until next week, enjoy the break from the filming.
Perpetua Crawford
Lady Fiona,
Congratulations.
I am very happy for this notice.
Absolutily stunning.
Your beauty house is very a lovely castle...
Cheers.
Amazing week for you and your husband and staff.
VILLA ALEMÃ
RIO CLARO -SP
BRAZIL.