Photo: Rory Mulvey / © 2025 FOCUS FEATURES LLC
Hit period drama Downton Abbey has captured the attention of viewers for years. For 15 years it combined high-society glamour with scheming and backstabbing, all set within an outdated class system. Now, we say goodbye to the franchise with one final hurrah: Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.
With rich textures, ornate detailing, classic silhouettes, and refined finishes, all hallmarks of the Edwardian style that defined the world of Downton, there is plenty of interiors inspiration to be gleaned from the show. “The Downton era was defined by a bold mix of sophistication and grit,” says Kate McGlone, Group Design Manager at Winnings. “It embraced raw, urban textures – exposed brick, steel, and concrete – set against high-shine finishes like lacquer, brass, and glass. This juxtaposition created an energy that was both edgy and sophisticated.”
“Furniture lines became sleeker and more geometric, while lighting took on a sculptural quality, often oversized and theatrical. Colour palettes leaned into deep jewel tones and moody neutrals, layered with pops of metallic. Most importantly, the Downton-era captured a sense of individuality – spaces felt curated, expressive, and unafraid to take risks, reflecting the cultural vibrancy of the time.”
Following six enduring series and now three films, we’re just not willing to let go of the pompous goings-on (and why should we have to?). If you’re looking to live as though you’re in a Downton Abbey castle, we’ve found 8 glamorous countryside castles to book now. From grand dining rooms to understated drawing rooms, these stays have everything you need to live out your Downton dreams.
How to get the Downton look
“To bring the Downton aesthetic into your home, it’s all about layering contrast – sophistication with grit, polish with patina,” Kate says. “A freestanding oven in a bold finish can instantly anchor the kitchen, whether you lean toward timeless elegance, a sleek urban edge, or a dramatic statement piece. Pair this with a feature sink and feature tapware to introduce that industrial undertone, while a statement canopy rangehood overhead adds presence and a hint of loft-inspired drama. For a touch of luxury, consider opting for tapware in a metallic finish, which doubles as both a functional upgrade and a design accent.”
“The look comes together through layering – mixing classic forms with contemporary lines, polished metals with raw textures, and structural pieces with soft furnishings. Add pattern, colour, and sculptural lighting to balance the harder elements, and you’ll create a home that feels both sophisticated and lived-in – true to the Downton spirit.”
Australian castle accommodation inspired by Downton Abbey
- Ben Huon Manor, Robertson, NSW (here’s why)
- Bishops Palace, Ballarat VIC (here’s why)
- Heritage Coach House at The Rift Estate, Bowral NSW (here’s why)
01
Ben Huon Manor
Robertson, NSW
Best for: magnificent gardens
Sleeps: 10 guests
With incredible Georgian-Gothic architecture, manicured gardens and Tudor arches, this country house in the Southern Highlands epitomises the grandeur of Downton. The main house, adjoining wing, and sprawling gardens are all yours to explore so you can be transported back in time.
Key features:
- A private estate
- Five bedrooms
- Stunning views from every room
- Just minutes from Robertson
- Modern conveniences and comforts
02
Bishops Palace
Ballarat, VIC
Best for: a piece of history
Sleeps: 12 guests
Bishops Palace in Ballarat is one of a few heritage palace-style houses in the area. Enjoying 1800s architecture, ornate period details and sweeping staircases, this heritage-listed Gothic mansion will make it impossible not to be swept away by the grandeur of the era.
Key features
- Heritage-listed Gothic mansion
- Picturesque gardens
- A short walk from Lake Wendouree
- Book individual rooms or the whole estate
03
Heritage Coach House at The Rift Estate
Bowral, NSW
Best for: a charming country retreat
Sleeps: 13 guests
The Rift Estate is a grand nineteenth-century Italianate property set amongst rambling heritage-listed gardens. On its grounds, a charming country retreat that sleeps 13 guests. The Coach House offers expansive living and dining spaces that retain many of the original historical features. Here, guests can wander the grounds, enjoy a spot of croquet, entertain in one of the many dining and living spaces or relax in the charming country ambience.
Key features:
- A gourmet kitchen
- Play croquet and badminton on the lawn
- Three open fireplaces and claw-foot bathtubs
- Just minutes from bushwalking trails, wineries and Bowral
04
Evermoore Castle
Gleniffer, NSW
Best for: a real castle experience
Sleeps: 8 guests
A real-life castle on the East Coast of Australia, this one-of-a-kind European-style chateau will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale. It is set on sprawling acreage with a private swimming hole, and inside, dramatic period-style décor, soaring ceilings, stained-glass windows, spiral staircases and turrets channel Downton vibes.
Key features:
- A European-style chateau
- Great Hall, turrets, stained glass and spiral staircase
- Additional accommodation to sleep extra guests: “The Disco Studio” and “The Homestead Suite”
05
Castle Suite
Stirling, SA
Best for: living out a castle fantasy
Sleeps: 2 guests
A ground-floor apartment in an iconic South Australian castle, this might be what you need if you’re looking for out of the box experience. With a bedroom, ensuite, kitchenette, and access to a full shared kitchen and laundry, this small castle offers Downton on a smaller level.
Key features:
- A spacious apartment with a romantic four-poster king-size bed and large bathtub
- Access to a full shared kitchen and European laundry
- Just 14km from Adelaide
- Plenty of nearby nature reserves to explore
06
Braeside Homestead
Dalveen, QLD
Best for: a Queensland escape
Sleeps: 10 guests
This 150-year-old homestead in rural Queensland is a magical place. With a grand dining room, formal lounge, famous Braeside turret, private gardens, tennis court, and infinity pool, once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave.
Key features
- A large homestead with tennis court, swimming pool and hot tub
- Manicured gardens
- House and grounds are kept in pristine condition
07
Mount Ophir Estate
Rutherglen, VIC
Best for: a unique experience
Sleeps: 2 guests
A unique architectural landmark in Australian history, this three-storey castle in the world-class wine region of Rutherglen makes for an unforgettable escape.
Key features:
- French provincial ‘Tower’ at Mount Ophir Estate dates back to 1903
- Just minutes from nearby awarded wineries and eateries
- Spans three levels with two staircases
- Enjoys a dining room, library, sitting room, and luxurious bedroom suite
08
The Manor House
Daylesford, VIC
Best for: a touch of grandeur
Sleeps: 16 guests
A magnificent, centrally-located home in Daylesford, this holiday guesthouse is where Downton grandeur meets restorative rural luxury.
Key features:
- Located in the heart of Daylesford
- Eight beautifully styled bedrooms each with ensuites
- A Great Room filled with art and beautiful wares
- Option to accommodate up to 28 people with the nearby Station House
Where can you watch Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale in Australia?
You can watch Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale in Australia on Apple TV or Prime Video, or in cinemas now.
