Of course, with its great history and grandeur physique, the castle is a central component to the draw for tourists and fans of the show — a fact that does get past the countess.

“My favorite character is obviously the house because actually I think that is the biggest character and the central character. It holds all the different activities doesn’t it, through which they all pass. And I watched “Upstairs, Downstairs”…. but funnily enough I thought there was something missing and, of course, it was the house.”

So while we have to wait until 2013 – yes 2013! – for the next season of Downton Abbey there are more than enough experiences to get you through. Make sure to check out the interview below for some insight and spoilers for the next season of Downton Abbey from Lady Carnarvon herself!

For more Downton Abbey inspired travel, check out:

• Alyssa’s first report on Real Life Downton Abbey Travel Ideas
• Travel Tip: Visiting Historic Estates
• The British Isles archives
• The Pop Culture Travel archives

By Alyssa Caverley for PeterGreenberg.com