Nicola here! Today, in honour of the recent release of the Downton Abbey film, I’m reposting a blog from a few years ago when I took Guide Dog Puppy Rochester on a visit to Highclere Castle. I haven’t seen the film yet but I’m looking forward to it. So here, to celebrate, is my updated post from 2012:
"Last week I had the pleasure of a visit to Highclere Castle in Hampshire, which is the location where much of the hit TV series Downton Abbey is filmed. I was pretty excited about this trip as not only do I enjoy the TV programme very much I also love visiting historic houses so this was combining two of my favourite things.
With Downton Abbey the house is far more than just a setting; it feels like a character in itself. As 
we drove towards it the house was immediately recognisable. It’s enormous (fifty bedrooms!) and grand in a way that only a Victorian mansion can be (it was built in 1838). It’s not the first building on the site. There was a medieval hall at Highclere, a manor house and a classical Georgian mansion before the transformation that created the current castle. It is said that the grand central tower of the house cost a fortune and Lord Caernarvon’s land agent warned his employer that the plans were “pregnant with the most alarming danger to your Lordship’s pocket.” Despite this, the 3rd Earl was determined on a grand plan and when the house was finished it dominated its surroundings in the most dramatic way.
Before we went on our tour of the house we strolled across the parkland and admired the cedar trees that were part of the landscaped grounds created in the 18th century. We had Rochester the Guide Dog Puppy with us and as he is a Yellow Labrador we thought we would do our own version of the Downton Abbey opening credits, filmed on my mobile phone with my husband standing in for Lord Grantham. Alas Rochester was not as majestic as Lord Grantham’s Labrador Isis, who had her own storyline in the second series, but he did love wandering through the park. Although NBC was also filming that day at Highclere I think I can claim that Rochester was the star of our particular show. He was made very welcome by staff and visitors alike and the sight of this small guide dog puppy descending Highclere’s fabulously grand central staircase as though he was to the manor born was very funny. On his way out he even met Lord Caernarvon, who commended him for being a very good dog!
The interior of the house was also instantly recognisable from the TV programme. I loved the 
dining room, where so many of those splendid dinners in Downton Abbey take place, and the magnificent oak staircase that ascends from the Saloon up to the Gallery and the Gallery Bedrooms. It is around this landing that some of the bedrooms are situated that are used in the filming. We saw “Lady Grantham’s room”, “Lady Edith’s room” and “Lady Sybil’s room” and also the room given to the cad and bounder Kamal Pamuk in the first series. This is decorated with bright red flock wallpaper and is known as the Stanhope Room. It was refurbished in 1895 for the visit of the then Prince of Wales. It was also great to meet some of the room stewards who had their own anecdotes to tell of the Downton Abbey cast and the filming. Mrs Patmore the cook, Mr Carson the butler and the Thomas the footman were their favourites!
Highclere wears its Downton Abbey connections lightly with only a few signboards in the rooms to tell visitors of a specific link to the TV series. This leaves plenty of room for the “real” history of the house. I loved the Library, which resembled a gentleman’s club and was furnished with Georgian and Regency desks and tables. My favourite room though was the lovely south facing drawing room, which felt warm and intimate because it was comparatively small. I could quite imagine the ladies withdrawing there for tea and a chat!
The Castle became a centre of political life during the late Victorian era and in the 20th century it saw different uses during the two World Wars. During the First World War it was a hospital for wounded officers. In this the storyline in the TV series mirrored the real history of the house.
My favourite part of the visit was discovering about the life of a servant at Highclere during the Edwardian era. Once again, Downton Abbey mirrored reality perfectly. Guests at Highclere ranged from Royalty to politicians, Egyptologists to aviators. Behind the green baize door (there really was one, and a stone flight of steps leading down to the servants’ hall) the butler reigned supreme with Lord Caernarvon’s valet and the housekeeper also at the top of the pecking order. The butler ran the castle, looked after the wine cellar and waited on the family at dinner. He was also expected to announce visitors, take calling cards, escort departing visitors from the premises, organise the post and oversee the secure closing of the house each night. The valet managed the Earl's personal accounts as well as his wardrobe and travelled with him. The Highclere footmen had navy coloured livery and buttons sporting the family crest. They were all required to be clean-shaven and the more handsome and presentable the better it reflected on the family!
After lunch in a marquee on the lawn – with Rochester being offered a drink of water out of special Highclere china! – we took a tour 
of the gardens. The Monks’ Garden has surviving Georgian walls and arches and is a beautiful and tranquil place to walk. The grounds are dotted with "follies;" decorative ruins in classical style designed to enhance the view.
We finished the day climbing Beacon Hill to the grave of the 5th Earl of Caernarvon, the Egyptologist who with Howard Carter, discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun. Highclere Castle was framed in the distance, the perfect view to end a wonderful day."
An update on Rochester – He qualified as a guide dog and went to work in London. He retired from active service this year!
You may have read that Lord and Lady Caernarvon are offering visitor the chance to stay at the castle via AirB&B and there is a private tour of the house and grounds and special afternoon tea thrown in as well. I imagine they will be inundated with applications!
Did you enjoy the Downton Abbey series and have you seen the film yet or isn’t it your cup of (Earl Grey) tea? How would you like to stay at Highclere?
How wonderful, Nicola! I’m so glad to hear that Rochester lived up to the aristocratic standards of the house, and nice to get an update on his distinguished career.
I enjoyed the first few episodes of Downton Abbey, but bailed with the soap opera elements got out of hand. I’d be happy to spend a night at Highclere, though!
How wonderful, Nicola! I’m so glad to hear that Rochester lived up to the aristocratic standards of the house, and nice to get an update on his distinguished career.
I enjoyed the first few episodes of Downton Abbey, but bailed with the soap opera elements got out of hand. I’d be happy to spend a night at Highclere, though!
How wonderful, Nicola! I’m so glad to hear that Rochester lived up to the aristocratic standards of the house, and nice to get an update on his distinguished career.
I enjoyed the first few episodes of Downton Abbey, but bailed with the soap opera elements got out of hand. I’d be happy to spend a night at Highclere, though!
How wonderful, Nicola! I’m so glad to hear that Rochester lived up to the aristocratic standards of the house, and nice to get an update on his distinguished career.
I enjoyed the first few episodes of Downton Abbey, but bailed with the soap opera elements got out of hand. I’d be happy to spend a night at Highclere, though!
How wonderful, Nicola! I’m so glad to hear that Rochester lived up to the aristocratic standards of the house, and nice to get an update on his distinguished career.
I enjoyed the first few episodes of Downton Abbey, but bailed with the soap opera elements got out of hand. I’d be happy to spend a night at Highclere, though!
My husband was very fond of Downton Abbey; I watche the first season, but then stopped watching. I believe the show was well done, but it wasn’t to my taste.
I thank you for this virtual tour. i would have loved to have visited there.
My husband was very fond of Downton Abbey; I watche the first season, but then stopped watching. I believe the show was well done, but it wasn’t to my taste.
I thank you for this virtual tour. i would have loved to have visited there.
My husband was very fond of Downton Abbey; I watche the first season, but then stopped watching. I believe the show was well done, but it wasn’t to my taste.
I thank you for this virtual tour. i would have loved to have visited there.
My husband was very fond of Downton Abbey; I watche the first season, but then stopped watching. I believe the show was well done, but it wasn’t to my taste.
I thank you for this virtual tour. i would have loved to have visited there.
My husband was very fond of Downton Abbey; I watche the first season, but then stopped watching. I believe the show was well done, but it wasn’t to my taste.
I thank you for this virtual tour. i would have loved to have visited there.
Thank you, Mary Jo! We’re very proud of all Rochester achieved. He certainly lived up to his name and heritage!
Thank you, Mary Jo! We’re very proud of all Rochester achieved. He certainly lived up to his name and heritage!
Thank you, Mary Jo! We’re very proud of all Rochester achieved. He certainly lived up to his name and heritage!
Thank you, Mary Jo! We’re very proud of all Rochester achieved. He certainly lived up to his name and heritage!
Thank you, Mary Jo! We’re very proud of all Rochester achieved. He certainly lived up to his name and heritage!
Thanks, Sue! It is a wonderful place to visit – or stay – even if you aren’t a big fan of the show!
Thanks, Sue! It is a wonderful place to visit – or stay – even if you aren’t a big fan of the show!
Thanks, Sue! It is a wonderful place to visit – or stay – even if you aren’t a big fan of the show!
Thanks, Sue! It is a wonderful place to visit – or stay – even if you aren’t a big fan of the show!
Thanks, Sue! It is a wonderful place to visit – or stay – even if you aren’t a big fan of the show!
I have enjoyed the Downton Abbey series quite a bit – especially the earlier seasons. I have always found WWI and pre-WWI an interesting time in history. Don’t see that time period too often in Historical Romances. Downton reminded me a lot of a TV series (Upstairs, Downstairs) that I enjoyed back in the 70s.
I saw a documentary a few years ago about Highclere Castle and what it takes to maintain the place. Very interesting.
Proud of Rochester!
I have enjoyed the Downton Abbey series quite a bit – especially the earlier seasons. I have always found WWI and pre-WWI an interesting time in history. Don’t see that time period too often in Historical Romances. Downton reminded me a lot of a TV series (Upstairs, Downstairs) that I enjoyed back in the 70s.
I saw a documentary a few years ago about Highclere Castle and what it takes to maintain the place. Very interesting.
Proud of Rochester!
I have enjoyed the Downton Abbey series quite a bit – especially the earlier seasons. I have always found WWI and pre-WWI an interesting time in history. Don’t see that time period too often in Historical Romances. Downton reminded me a lot of a TV series (Upstairs, Downstairs) that I enjoyed back in the 70s.
I saw a documentary a few years ago about Highclere Castle and what it takes to maintain the place. Very interesting.
Proud of Rochester!
I have enjoyed the Downton Abbey series quite a bit – especially the earlier seasons. I have always found WWI and pre-WWI an interesting time in history. Don’t see that time period too often in Historical Romances. Downton reminded me a lot of a TV series (Upstairs, Downstairs) that I enjoyed back in the 70s.
I saw a documentary a few years ago about Highclere Castle and what it takes to maintain the place. Very interesting.
Proud of Rochester!
I have enjoyed the Downton Abbey series quite a bit – especially the earlier seasons. I have always found WWI and pre-WWI an interesting time in history. Don’t see that time period too often in Historical Romances. Downton reminded me a lot of a TV series (Upstairs, Downstairs) that I enjoyed back in the 70s.
I saw a documentary a few years ago about Highclere Castle and what it takes to maintain the place. Very interesting.
Proud of Rochester!
Thank you for reprising this post, Nicola, as I missed it the first time around. I loved the Downton Abbey series and was ecstatic when they announced the movie. Even more so when I saw it would release here in the U.S. on my birthday. I treated myself to a viewing Friday and it was wonderful. Everything I could have wanted and more.
I would definitely be up for spending the night at Highclere. What a fun opportunity that would be!
Congratulations to Rochester on his retirement. I hope he’s living the high life, filling his days with fun, treats, and plenty of cozy naps.
Thank you for reprising this post, Nicola, as I missed it the first time around. I loved the Downton Abbey series and was ecstatic when they announced the movie. Even more so when I saw it would release here in the U.S. on my birthday. I treated myself to a viewing Friday and it was wonderful. Everything I could have wanted and more.
I would definitely be up for spending the night at Highclere. What a fun opportunity that would be!
Congratulations to Rochester on his retirement. I hope he’s living the high life, filling his days with fun, treats, and plenty of cozy naps.
Thank you for reprising this post, Nicola, as I missed it the first time around. I loved the Downton Abbey series and was ecstatic when they announced the movie. Even more so when I saw it would release here in the U.S. on my birthday. I treated myself to a viewing Friday and it was wonderful. Everything I could have wanted and more.
I would definitely be up for spending the night at Highclere. What a fun opportunity that would be!
Congratulations to Rochester on his retirement. I hope he’s living the high life, filling his days with fun, treats, and plenty of cozy naps.
Thank you for reprising this post, Nicola, as I missed it the first time around. I loved the Downton Abbey series and was ecstatic when they announced the movie. Even more so when I saw it would release here in the U.S. on my birthday. I treated myself to a viewing Friday and it was wonderful. Everything I could have wanted and more.
I would definitely be up for spending the night at Highclere. What a fun opportunity that would be!
Congratulations to Rochester on his retirement. I hope he’s living the high life, filling his days with fun, treats, and plenty of cozy naps.
Thank you for reprising this post, Nicola, as I missed it the first time around. I loved the Downton Abbey series and was ecstatic when they announced the movie. Even more so when I saw it would release here in the U.S. on my birthday. I treated myself to a viewing Friday and it was wonderful. Everything I could have wanted and more.
I would definitely be up for spending the night at Highclere. What a fun opportunity that would be!
Congratulations to Rochester on his retirement. I hope he’s living the high life, filling his days with fun, treats, and plenty of cozy naps.
How wonderful! The castle is definitely on my bucket list if I ever visit the UK again. I have seen the new film and it’s just magic. It felt lovely to be back there again.
How wonderful! The castle is definitely on my bucket list if I ever visit the UK again. I have seen the new film and it’s just magic. It felt lovely to be back there again.
How wonderful! The castle is definitely on my bucket list if I ever visit the UK again. I have seen the new film and it’s just magic. It felt lovely to be back there again.
How wonderful! The castle is definitely on my bucket list if I ever visit the UK again. I have seen the new film and it’s just magic. It felt lovely to be back there again.
How wonderful! The castle is definitely on my bucket list if I ever visit the UK again. I have seen the new film and it’s just magic. It felt lovely to be back there again.
What a lovely post (even for those like me who have never seen Downton Abbey).
What a lovely post (even for those like me who have never seen Downton Abbey).
What a lovely post (even for those like me who have never seen Downton Abbey).
What a lovely post (even for those like me who have never seen Downton Abbey).
What a lovely post (even for those like me who have never seen Downton Abbey).
What a fabulous post
I loved what I saw of the series and adored the movie I could sit through it so many more times and I would love to stay there and have a cup of tea
Have Fun
Helen
What a fabulous post
I loved what I saw of the series and adored the movie I could sit through it so many more times and I would love to stay there and have a cup of tea
Have Fun
Helen
What a fabulous post
I loved what I saw of the series and adored the movie I could sit through it so many more times and I would love to stay there and have a cup of tea
Have Fun
Helen
What a fabulous post
I loved what I saw of the series and adored the movie I could sit through it so many more times and I would love to stay there and have a cup of tea
Have Fun
Helen
What a fabulous post
I loved what I saw of the series and adored the movie I could sit through it so many more times and I would love to stay there and have a cup of tea
Have Fun
Helen
Thank you, Mary! Yes, managing a place like that must be like running a big business, I imagine!
Thank you, Mary! Yes, managing a place like that must be like running a big business, I imagine!
Thank you, Mary! Yes, managing a place like that must be like running a big business, I imagine!
Thank you, Mary! Yes, managing a place like that must be like running a big business, I imagine!
Thank you, Mary! Yes, managing a place like that must be like running a big business, I imagine!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Thank you! It’s great to hear you enjoyed the Downton Abbey film and what a lovely way to celebrate your birthday!
Rochester has certainly earned his retirement and is thoroughly spoiled!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Thank you! It’s great to hear you enjoyed the Downton Abbey film and what a lovely way to celebrate your birthday!
Rochester has certainly earned his retirement and is thoroughly spoiled!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Thank you! It’s great to hear you enjoyed the Downton Abbey film and what a lovely way to celebrate your birthday!
Rochester has certainly earned his retirement and is thoroughly spoiled!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Thank you! It’s great to hear you enjoyed the Downton Abbey film and what a lovely way to celebrate your birthday!
Rochester has certainly earned his retirement and is thoroughly spoiled!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Thank you! It’s great to hear you enjoyed the Downton Abbey film and what a lovely way to celebrate your birthday!
Rochester has certainly earned his retirement and is thoroughly spoiled!
Oh, how lovely, Malvina! I’m so pleased it’s good. Can’t wait to see it!
Oh, how lovely, Malvina! I’m so pleased it’s good. Can’t wait to see it!
Oh, how lovely, Malvina! I’m so pleased it’s good. Can’t wait to see it!
Oh, how lovely, Malvina! I’m so pleased it’s good. Can’t wait to see it!
Oh, how lovely, Malvina! I’m so pleased it’s good. Can’t wait to see it!
Thank you, Kareni. I’m very glad you liked the post. It was such a fun trip to do!
Thank you, Kareni. I’m very glad you liked the post. It was such a fun trip to do!
Thank you, Kareni. I’m very glad you liked the post. It was such a fun trip to do!
Thank you, Kareni. I’m very glad you liked the post. It was such a fun trip to do!
Thank you, Kareni. I’m very glad you liked the post. It was such a fun trip to do!
Your post is lovely. I did not watch the series, but I do enjoy looking at pictures and hearing stories about historic places.
Thanks for sharing.
Your post is lovely. I did not watch the series, but I do enjoy looking at pictures and hearing stories about historic places.
Thanks for sharing.
Your post is lovely. I did not watch the series, but I do enjoy looking at pictures and hearing stories about historic places.
Thanks for sharing.
Your post is lovely. I did not watch the series, but I do enjoy looking at pictures and hearing stories about historic places.
Thanks for sharing.
Your post is lovely. I did not watch the series, but I do enjoy looking at pictures and hearing stories about historic places.
Thanks for sharing.
That’s so kind of you, Annette. I’m happy you liked it!
That’s so kind of you, Annette. I’m happy you liked it!
That’s so kind of you, Annette. I’m happy you liked it!
That’s so kind of you, Annette. I’m happy you liked it!
That’s so kind of you, Annette. I’m happy you liked it!
I absolutely loved the Downton Abbey series. If it’s rerunning on TV, I sit down to watch again. I saw the movie last night & loved it just as much. For me – it was perfect, and then, how perfect to read your blog this morning to help me relive it again. Thank you!
I absolutely loved the Downton Abbey series. If it’s rerunning on TV, I sit down to watch again. I saw the movie last night & loved it just as much. For me – it was perfect, and then, how perfect to read your blog this morning to help me relive it again. Thank you!
I absolutely loved the Downton Abbey series. If it’s rerunning on TV, I sit down to watch again. I saw the movie last night & loved it just as much. For me – it was perfect, and then, how perfect to read your blog this morning to help me relive it again. Thank you!
I absolutely loved the Downton Abbey series. If it’s rerunning on TV, I sit down to watch again. I saw the movie last night & loved it just as much. For me – it was perfect, and then, how perfect to read your blog this morning to help me relive it again. Thank you!
I absolutely loved the Downton Abbey series. If it’s rerunning on TV, I sit down to watch again. I saw the movie last night & loved it just as much. For me – it was perfect, and then, how perfect to read your blog this morning to help me relive it again. Thank you!
I love Downton Abbey and I’m rewatching the series at the moment. Saw the film during the week Loved it!! There was no one big thing happening in it but lots of small stories. There are also some fun moments in it too.
Nicola have you read Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey written by the Countess of Carnarvon? It’s a great read. I couldn’t put it down.
Lovely post and great to hear about Rochester.
I love Downton Abbey and I’m rewatching the series at the moment. Saw the film during the week Loved it!! There was no one big thing happening in it but lots of small stories. There are also some fun moments in it too.
Nicola have you read Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey written by the Countess of Carnarvon? It’s a great read. I couldn’t put it down.
Lovely post and great to hear about Rochester.
I love Downton Abbey and I’m rewatching the series at the moment. Saw the film during the week Loved it!! There was no one big thing happening in it but lots of small stories. There are also some fun moments in it too.
Nicola have you read Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey written by the Countess of Carnarvon? It’s a great read. I couldn’t put it down.
Lovely post and great to hear about Rochester.
I love Downton Abbey and I’m rewatching the series at the moment. Saw the film during the week Loved it!! There was no one big thing happening in it but lots of small stories. There are also some fun moments in it too.
Nicola have you read Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey written by the Countess of Carnarvon? It’s a great read. I couldn’t put it down.
Lovely post and great to hear about Rochester.
I love Downton Abbey and I’m rewatching the series at the moment. Saw the film during the week Loved it!! There was no one big thing happening in it but lots of small stories. There are also some fun moments in it too.
Nicola have you read Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey written by the Countess of Carnarvon? It’s a great read. I couldn’t put it down.
Lovely post and great to hear about Rochester.
Thanks for posting this again as I missed it the first time around.
I loved Downton Abbey and watched it several times. I would not necessarily like staying in one of the rooms overnight but would love to stay in one of those nice big sitting rooms, parlors or the library. I also would love to walk the grounds and gardens.
To keep a house like that going is so costly and I also saw the show in PBS about the current owners and how they struggle to keep it going. They were lucky to have the show come to use their house.
A friend of mine trains puppies to be used as service dogs. He and his wife expose the dog to all kinds of situations and when they are ready they go on to school and so far all his dogs have found a good home to work in.
Thanks for posting this again as I missed it the first time around.
I loved Downton Abbey and watched it several times. I would not necessarily like staying in one of the rooms overnight but would love to stay in one of those nice big sitting rooms, parlors or the library. I also would love to walk the grounds and gardens.
To keep a house like that going is so costly and I also saw the show in PBS about the current owners and how they struggle to keep it going. They were lucky to have the show come to use their house.
A friend of mine trains puppies to be used as service dogs. He and his wife expose the dog to all kinds of situations and when they are ready they go on to school and so far all his dogs have found a good home to work in.
Thanks for posting this again as I missed it the first time around.
I loved Downton Abbey and watched it several times. I would not necessarily like staying in one of the rooms overnight but would love to stay in one of those nice big sitting rooms, parlors or the library. I also would love to walk the grounds and gardens.
To keep a house like that going is so costly and I also saw the show in PBS about the current owners and how they struggle to keep it going. They were lucky to have the show come to use their house.
A friend of mine trains puppies to be used as service dogs. He and his wife expose the dog to all kinds of situations and when they are ready they go on to school and so far all his dogs have found a good home to work in.
Thanks for posting this again as I missed it the first time around.
I loved Downton Abbey and watched it several times. I would not necessarily like staying in one of the rooms overnight but would love to stay in one of those nice big sitting rooms, parlors or the library. I also would love to walk the grounds and gardens.
To keep a house like that going is so costly and I also saw the show in PBS about the current owners and how they struggle to keep it going. They were lucky to have the show come to use their house.
A friend of mine trains puppies to be used as service dogs. He and his wife expose the dog to all kinds of situations and when they are ready they go on to school and so far all his dogs have found a good home to work in.
Thanks for posting this again as I missed it the first time around.
I loved Downton Abbey and watched it several times. I would not necessarily like staying in one of the rooms overnight but would love to stay in one of those nice big sitting rooms, parlors or the library. I also would love to walk the grounds and gardens.
To keep a house like that going is so costly and I also saw the show in PBS about the current owners and how they struggle to keep it going. They were lucky to have the show come to use their house.
A friend of mine trains puppies to be used as service dogs. He and his wife expose the dog to all kinds of situations and when they are ready they go on to school and so far all his dogs have found a good home to work in.
Oh, what perfect timing, Jeanne! I’m so glad the film was everything you had hoped for. I must say I am very excited about seeing it!
Oh, what perfect timing, Jeanne! I’m so glad the film was everything you had hoped for. I must say I am very excited about seeing it!
Oh, what perfect timing, Jeanne! I’m so glad the film was everything you had hoped for. I must say I am very excited about seeing it!
Oh, what perfect timing, Jeanne! I’m so glad the film was everything you had hoped for. I must say I am very excited about seeing it!
Oh, what perfect timing, Jeanne! I’m so glad the film was everything you had hoped for. I must say I am very excited about seeing it!
Oooh, what a co-incidence, Teresa! I’m reading the Lady Almina book at the moment!
Oooh, what a co-incidence, Teresa! I’m reading the Lady Almina book at the moment!
Oooh, what a co-incidence, Teresa! I’m reading the Lady Almina book at the moment!
Oooh, what a co-incidence, Teresa! I’m reading the Lady Almina book at the moment!
Oooh, what a co-incidence, Teresa! I’m reading the Lady Almina book at the moment!
Hi Margot. I wish I’d seen that program on PBS. it sounds really interesting. Yes, it must cost an absolute fortune to maintain places like Highclere.
It’s lovely to hear about your friend training service dogs. They really are the most amazing animals!
Hi Margot. I wish I’d seen that program on PBS. it sounds really interesting. Yes, it must cost an absolute fortune to maintain places like Highclere.
It’s lovely to hear about your friend training service dogs. They really are the most amazing animals!
Hi Margot. I wish I’d seen that program on PBS. it sounds really interesting. Yes, it must cost an absolute fortune to maintain places like Highclere.
It’s lovely to hear about your friend training service dogs. They really are the most amazing animals!
Hi Margot. I wish I’d seen that program on PBS. it sounds really interesting. Yes, it must cost an absolute fortune to maintain places like Highclere.
It’s lovely to hear about your friend training service dogs. They really are the most amazing animals!
Hi Margot. I wish I’d seen that program on PBS. it sounds really interesting. Yes, it must cost an absolute fortune to maintain places like Highclere.
It’s lovely to hear about your friend training service dogs. They really are the most amazing animals!
My husband refused to allow Downton Abby on our TV until the series was finished and the CDs were in the library. Then we sat on the couch and binged the whole thing in one big lump. I absolutely loved it, as did the ol’ man.
The last few episodes were directed by Michael Engler who had been a friend of mine in college. Often I felt those episodes devolved into costume parades so I was worried when I learned Michael was directing the movie. The fact is, the film is marvelous, and I’m so, so happy for him. I think it’s his first feature film. (My only complaint–not enough Bates.)
My husband refused to allow Downton Abby on our TV until the series was finished and the CDs were in the library. Then we sat on the couch and binged the whole thing in one big lump. I absolutely loved it, as did the ol’ man.
The last few episodes were directed by Michael Engler who had been a friend of mine in college. Often I felt those episodes devolved into costume parades so I was worried when I learned Michael was directing the movie. The fact is, the film is marvelous, and I’m so, so happy for him. I think it’s his first feature film. (My only complaint–not enough Bates.)
My husband refused to allow Downton Abby on our TV until the series was finished and the CDs were in the library. Then we sat on the couch and binged the whole thing in one big lump. I absolutely loved it, as did the ol’ man.
The last few episodes were directed by Michael Engler who had been a friend of mine in college. Often I felt those episodes devolved into costume parades so I was worried when I learned Michael was directing the movie. The fact is, the film is marvelous, and I’m so, so happy for him. I think it’s his first feature film. (My only complaint–not enough Bates.)
My husband refused to allow Downton Abby on our TV until the series was finished and the CDs were in the library. Then we sat on the couch and binged the whole thing in one big lump. I absolutely loved it, as did the ol’ man.
The last few episodes were directed by Michael Engler who had been a friend of mine in college. Often I felt those episodes devolved into costume parades so I was worried when I learned Michael was directing the movie. The fact is, the film is marvelous, and I’m so, so happy for him. I think it’s his first feature film. (My only complaint–not enough Bates.)
My husband refused to allow Downton Abby on our TV until the series was finished and the CDs were in the library. Then we sat on the couch and binged the whole thing in one big lump. I absolutely loved it, as did the ol’ man.
The last few episodes were directed by Michael Engler who had been a friend of mine in college. Often I felt those episodes devolved into costume parades so I was worried when I learned Michael was directing the movie. The fact is, the film is marvelous, and I’m so, so happy for him. I think it’s his first feature film. (My only complaint–not enough Bates.)
I liked the actors and the setting, but I didn’t think Downton Abbey was very well written; it seemed that whenever the author ran out of new ideas, he’d drop the Bateses down a well again. I would mutter GMAFB at the screen. It was also very static; there were endless scenes of actors wandering around the grounds and posing as if for a magazine spread. Towards the end I watched it only to see Hugh Bonneville.
I’ll watch the movie when it’s Netflixable (I have the dvd service) but I wouldn’t bother to see it in theater.
I liked the actors and the setting, but I didn’t think Downton Abbey was very well written; it seemed that whenever the author ran out of new ideas, he’d drop the Bateses down a well again. I would mutter GMAFB at the screen. It was also very static; there were endless scenes of actors wandering around the grounds and posing as if for a magazine spread. Towards the end I watched it only to see Hugh Bonneville.
I’ll watch the movie when it’s Netflixable (I have the dvd service) but I wouldn’t bother to see it in theater.
I liked the actors and the setting, but I didn’t think Downton Abbey was very well written; it seemed that whenever the author ran out of new ideas, he’d drop the Bateses down a well again. I would mutter GMAFB at the screen. It was also very static; there were endless scenes of actors wandering around the grounds and posing as if for a magazine spread. Towards the end I watched it only to see Hugh Bonneville.
I’ll watch the movie when it’s Netflixable (I have the dvd service) but I wouldn’t bother to see it in theater.
I liked the actors and the setting, but I didn’t think Downton Abbey was very well written; it seemed that whenever the author ran out of new ideas, he’d drop the Bateses down a well again. I would mutter GMAFB at the screen. It was also very static; there were endless scenes of actors wandering around the grounds and posing as if for a magazine spread. Towards the end I watched it only to see Hugh Bonneville.
I’ll watch the movie when it’s Netflixable (I have the dvd service) but I wouldn’t bother to see it in theater.
I liked the actors and the setting, but I didn’t think Downton Abbey was very well written; it seemed that whenever the author ran out of new ideas, he’d drop the Bateses down a well again. I would mutter GMAFB at the screen. It was also very static; there were endless scenes of actors wandering around the grounds and posing as if for a magazine spread. Towards the end I watched it only to see Hugh Bonneville.
I’ll watch the movie when it’s Netflixable (I have the dvd service) but I wouldn’t bother to see it in theater.
You’ve really whetted my appetite for the film, Elf. I’m glad it was so good! You can never have too much of Mr Bates!
You’ve really whetted my appetite for the film, Elf. I’m glad it was so good! You can never have too much of Mr Bates!
You’ve really whetted my appetite for the film, Elf. I’m glad it was so good! You can never have too much of Mr Bates!
You’ve really whetted my appetite for the film, Elf. I’m glad it was so good! You can never have too much of Mr Bates!
You’ve really whetted my appetite for the film, Elf. I’m glad it was so good! You can never have too much of Mr Bates!
Hi Janice! I think they did try to make the house and grounds a character in its own right. I imagine it’s quite a challenge to keep the pace going on such a long set of series, which is one of the reasons I’m keen to see if the film is pacier. We’ll see!
Hi Janice! I think they did try to make the house and grounds a character in its own right. I imagine it’s quite a challenge to keep the pace going on such a long set of series, which is one of the reasons I’m keen to see if the film is pacier. We’ll see!
Hi Janice! I think they did try to make the house and grounds a character in its own right. I imagine it’s quite a challenge to keep the pace going on such a long set of series, which is one of the reasons I’m keen to see if the film is pacier. We’ll see!
Hi Janice! I think they did try to make the house and grounds a character in its own right. I imagine it’s quite a challenge to keep the pace going on such a long set of series, which is one of the reasons I’m keen to see if the film is pacier. We’ll see!
Hi Janice! I think they did try to make the house and grounds a character in its own right. I imagine it’s quite a challenge to keep the pace going on such a long set of series, which is one of the reasons I’m keen to see if the film is pacier. We’ll see!
I love your blog! I also wanted to thank Mary Jo for Writing my favorite romance novel ever, The Rake. I have seen discussions here of the trend against dark historicals, and I think it’s important to talk about the impact that books like that can have on readers. Few editors would welcome a regency romance that realistically takes on alcoholism as it’s central theme. But The Rake was a game changer for me both as a reader and a writer. It showed me how artificial the limits are that we tend to self-impose on historical romance. Such a moving and unforgettable book. Real people. Real problems. Unforgettable love story. Thank you Mary Jo!!
I love your blog! I also wanted to thank Mary Jo for Writing my favorite romance novel ever, The Rake. I have seen discussions here of the trend against dark historicals, and I think it’s important to talk about the impact that books like that can have on readers. Few editors would welcome a regency romance that realistically takes on alcoholism as it’s central theme. But The Rake was a game changer for me both as a reader and a writer. It showed me how artificial the limits are that we tend to self-impose on historical romance. Such a moving and unforgettable book. Real people. Real problems. Unforgettable love story. Thank you Mary Jo!!
I love your blog! I also wanted to thank Mary Jo for Writing my favorite romance novel ever, The Rake. I have seen discussions here of the trend against dark historicals, and I think it’s important to talk about the impact that books like that can have on readers. Few editors would welcome a regency romance that realistically takes on alcoholism as it’s central theme. But The Rake was a game changer for me both as a reader and a writer. It showed me how artificial the limits are that we tend to self-impose on historical romance. Such a moving and unforgettable book. Real people. Real problems. Unforgettable love story. Thank you Mary Jo!!
I love your blog! I also wanted to thank Mary Jo for Writing my favorite romance novel ever, The Rake. I have seen discussions here of the trend against dark historicals, and I think it’s important to talk about the impact that books like that can have on readers. Few editors would welcome a regency romance that realistically takes on alcoholism as it’s central theme. But The Rake was a game changer for me both as a reader and a writer. It showed me how artificial the limits are that we tend to self-impose on historical romance. Such a moving and unforgettable book. Real people. Real problems. Unforgettable love story. Thank you Mary Jo!!
I love your blog! I also wanted to thank Mary Jo for Writing my favorite romance novel ever, The Rake. I have seen discussions here of the trend against dark historicals, and I think it’s important to talk about the impact that books like that can have on readers. Few editors would welcome a regency romance that realistically takes on alcoholism as it’s central theme. But The Rake was a game changer for me both as a reader and a writer. It showed me how artificial the limits are that we tend to self-impose on historical romance. Such a moving and unforgettable book. Real people. Real problems. Unforgettable love story. Thank you Mary Jo!!