The final chapter of Downton Abbey is about to hit Australian cinemas, and Viking has partnered with Universal Pictures, Focus Features and Carnival Films to mark the occasion.
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale, set in the 1930s, sees the Crawley family and their household adjusting to change as a new generation takes the reins. The film opens in Australia on 11 September.
Karine Hagen, Viking’s Executive Vice President of Product, said many travellers first discovered Viking and Highclere Castle through the TV series. “A key aspect of the Viking way of travel is offering our guests Privileged Access to cultural treasures around the world—and our exclusive experiences at Highclere Castle, which are co-created with the Carnarvon family, have become favourites among our guests,” she said.
Highclere Castle, home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the filming location for much of Downton Abbey, has a long-running connection with Viking. Since 2014, the company has offered packages that include time at the estate, alongside other cultural experiences. Options include pre- and post-river cruise extensions such as Oxford & Highclere Castle, Great Homes, Gardens & Gin, and the British Collections of Ancient Egypt programme linked to its Nile voyages.
Lady Carnarvon said the partnership has been rewarding. “For over a decade, it has been a pleasure to open our doors to Viking guests and truly provide Privileged Access, sharing with them the stories, traditions and treasures that have made this estate special for more than 300 years,” she said. “The personal and professional ties between Viking and Highclere run deep—our longstanding relationship is rooted in a shared devotion to heritage, culture and the enrichment that comes from genuine exploration.”
The relationship between the two also extends beyond the castle. Lady Carnarvon has appeared on Viking.TV, the company’s streaming channel, while she and her family have served as ceremonial godparents for several Viking ships.
To celebrate the new film, a competition is open until 1 December for Australian residents. The prize includes an eight-day Paris & the Heart of Normandy river cruise for two, plus a three-night Oxford & Highclere Castle extension, along with Eurostar travel between London and Paris.
