Explore Harewood House: A Journey into Downton Abbey

Visiting Harewood House feels like stepping into the time tunnel of Downton Abbey. Located in Yorkshire, England, Harewood House is an 18th-century noble palace. It serves as the residence of the Earl of Harewood, a cousin of the Queen, and is a hub for modern art and education, rich in cultural and historical significance. For fans of Downton Abbey, Harewood House holds special meaning as many key scenes were filmed here. The interior of the estate features many familiar settings. We toured the State Rooms and walked through the long corridors, which were the backdrop for several party scenes. From the drawing room to the vast stone kitchen, these areas not only showcase the luxury of aristocratic life but also convey the bustling work of servants at the time. Additionally, the gardens and grounds of Harewood House are significant filming locations. The Brown-designed landscape and winding river provide a picturesque backdrop for the series. Strolling on the rolling lawns, one can feel the harmony of nature and history. The estate also houses a bird garden, showcasing various rare birds, which is also depicted in the series. We took a boat across the lake to the beautiful gardens on the other side, perfectly recreating classic scenes. A surprise awaits in the East Bedroom of Harewood House, adorned with stunning Chinese wallpaper from 1769. Once considered the finest Chinese wallpaper in the world, it depicts idealized scenes of Chinese life with vivid detail and color. According to restorers, this wallpaper was rare and precious at the time. It was made in Guangzhou in the mid-18th century and transported to England by the East India Company. The original owners of Harewood House, the Lascelles family, had close ties with the company. The wallpaper is rich with Cantonese cultural elements, including farming, silk weaving, tea, and porcelain scenes, featuring over 250 figures and more than 50 sets of production and living scenes. Standing in this room, one can almost hear the authentic Cantonese calls of street vendors in Guangzhou. Additionally, when we told our family about visiting the Downton Abbey filming location, the younger ones said: 'Take a good look at Herend's green Apponyi, Mason's Mandalay,... but upon careful search... we couldn't find them.' Tips: 1. If departing from Leeds, take bus 36 and get off at Harewood Arms, a 30-minute journey. The round trip costs £4, and remember to ask the driver for a travel receipt (not a ticket, but a travel receipt) when alighting. The estate entrance fee is £16, but with the travel receipt, you can purchase tickets at half price. 2. Upon reaching the estate entrance, you will see a sign for Figure 18, call for a free shuttle service. (The distance from the entrance to Harewood House is quite far, walking is not recommended.) Inside the estate, there are shuttle routes available for touring, or you can walk. 3. Be sure to take a boat to the other side for a tour, the scenery is beautiful. Locals specifically take the boat to the other side for a riverside walk, then return via the bridge linking both banks. #UK #Travel #HarewoodHouse #DowntonAbbey #StunningViews #EpicPhotos #SeeTheWorld