Five easy ways to visit Highclere Castle of Downton Abbey fame Just as the indomitable Dowager Countess of Grantham, in the person of enigmatic Dame Maggie Smith, along with Carson, Lady Mary and the entire Downton Abbey cast of characters return to the small screen for the the much-awaited season four, there's been a big spike in inquiries regarding travel to Highclere Castle and other sites associated with the award-winning Masterpiece Theatre series. So, in response to reader requests, here are five resources for tours to Highclere Castle, Berkshire and surrounding area where Downton Abbey has been filmed: 1. Visit Britain, the official government web site for all British travel 2. Highclere Castle, which has been owned by the Carnarvon family since 1679, and where the present Earl and Countess live today 3. BritMovietours, which operates a trip directly from London 4. Viator, popular all over the world, offers a combined Downton Abbey and Oxford tour 5. Great British Tours offers several Downton-themed tours, one of which is with your own private chauffeur. (Photos courtesy of PBS Masterpiece Theatre.) Will Lady Mary Crawley  find new love this season after the death of her beloved Matthew? (And what's up with Mr. Carson? Do we think he'll soften a little?)