British nobility brings “Downton Abbey” to Newport
NEWPORT, R.I. – The Preservation of Newport County will welcome British nobility on June 23 when it hosts The Right Honorable Countess of Carnarvon, the owner and creative mind behind the resurgence of Highclere Castle, known to millions around the world as the iconic estate of “Downton Abbey.”
The 8th and current Countess of Carnarvon is the best-selling author of five books, a historian, and a popular, international speaker. The wife of Geordie, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon, she began her career as an author by writing the guidebooks to Highclere, searching for stories within its walls. Dedicating herself to researching its history, she is also an established fundraiser, committed to restoring the castle’s buildings and grounds.
Lord and Lady Carnarvon have shared their family estate in England with the Emmy Award-winning PBS TV series “Downton Abbey” and its many fans. The Carnarvon family has lived at Highclere for 300 years.
“Highclere Castle is one of the most iconic and beloved houses in the world, and Lady Carnarvon and her husband, the Earl of Carnarvon, have done a remarkable job sharing its rich history and heritage,” Preservation Society CEO and Executive Director Trudy Coxe said. “We understand the importance of preserving and sharing history. We cannot wait to learn more about the real-life Downton Abbey and have Lady Carnarvon experience our own Gilded Age history right here in Newport.”
The Countess of Carnarvon commented, “I am delighted to be visiting The Preservation Society of Newport County and sharing some of the history and stories from the castle, gardens and landscape at Highclere Castle through the seasons.”
Lady Carnarvon will participate in a full day of events in Newport on June 23. She will begin the day with a luncheon at the private historic house Fairholme. She will then host an evening of activities at Rosecliff, one of the Preservation Society’s properties. Here are some of the exclusive opportunities available during this special day with British nobility.