Historic photographs show real royals in Downton Abbey
PHOTOGRAPHS showing life at the real Downton Abbey, which include a visit from the future king, have been unearthed after more than 120 years.
The collection of photographs is valued at an estimated £500
Highclere Castle in Hampshire was home to George Herbert, fifth Earl of Carnarvon, and his wife Almina in the late 19th and early 20th century.
The 1895 album, which is up for auction, contains 44 large images of the house, staff and estate, which doubled as Downton Abbey in the hit ITV drama.
Included are shots of the Earl of Carnarvon and Almina – the real-life Lord and Lady Grantham, who were played by Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern in the award-winning series.
Hugh Bonneville and the cast of Downton Abbey
Jim Carter hints at Downton Abbey the Movie
The Carnarvon family have been in the residence since 1672
Other photos show various shooting parties including one involving Prince Edward, who became King Edward VII six years later, and the house staff.
At that time there were as many as 60 members of staff living in and around the castle. The family have been in residence since 1672 and today’s custodians are the eighth Earl and Countess of Carnarvon.
The photo album, which is valued at £500, will be auctioned by Lawrences, of Crewkerne, Somerset, on February 3.