Visit
The Castle & Gardens
Explore the magnificent State Rooms of one of England's finest Victorian castles, and the 1,000 acres of Hampshire parkland that surround it.
The Castle
Built between 1838 and 1842 by Sir Charles Barry — architect of the Houses of Parliament — Highclere Castle is one of the finest examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture in England. Visitors can explore the magnificent State Rooms on the ground floor, each filled with remarkable art, furniture, and the accumulated history of the Carnarvon family.
The Saloon
The magnificent central hall of the castle, rising through two storeys with ornate Gothic arches, gilded decoration, and a remarkable collection of portraits. The Saloon is the heart of Highclere.
The Library
Lined with thousands of leather-bound volumes, the Library is where the 5th Earl of Carnarvon planned his Egyptian excavations. It remains one of the most atmospheric rooms in the castle.
The Drawing Room
An elegant room decorated with fine art and antique furniture, the Drawing Room offers views over the parkland and reflects the refined taste of successive generations of the Carnarvon family.
The Dining Room
Set with the family's finest china and silver, the Dining Room is where the Carnarvon family has entertained guests for generations — from royalty to archaeologists.
The Smoking Room
A more intimate room, the Smoking Room is decorated with portraits and memorabilia relating to the 5th Earl's passion for horse racing and his friendship with King Edward VII.
The Music Room
A light and airy room at the corner of the castle, the Music Room is decorated with watercolours and family portraits, and contains a fine collection of musical instruments.
The Gardens
The gardens at Highclere are as remarkable as the castle itself. Capability Brown's 18th-century landscape design created the rolling lawns, ancient cedars, and serpentine lake that frame the castle. Within the parkland, a series of more intimate gardens — the Walled Garden, the Secret Garden, and the Monks' Garden — offer moments of quiet discovery.
Explore the Gardens →