Inside the Real 'Downton Abbey' Castle

Many might be surprised to learn that the castle housing the Crawley family on the award-winning series Downton Abbey is in fact real, and has been home to a line of royals since 1679. 

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Lady Fiona and Lord George Carnarvon live in the now world-famous Victorian estate called Highclere Castle, which boasts more than 50 bedrooms, six entertaining rooms and 35,000 sq. feet of living space.

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Redesigned in the 19th century by Sir Charles Barry, the historic British residence is regarded as one of the finest Victorian mansions in England.

Watch the video for a sneak peek at Castles On Camera: Royal Residences on TV, which gives viewers a look inside the incredible site and tells the story behind its role in Downton Abbey, the UK miniseries created by Julian Fellowes.

The show, premiering on HGTV January 4, also explores the childhood home of Princess Diana.