High
Stakes At Highclere (1996) - Snapshot of life in the 90's at the setting for
Downton Abbey
This
Documentary was made before the “miracle” of Downton Abbey saved the
Castle.
By 2009,
the castle was in dire need of major repair, with only the ground and first
floors remaining usable. Water damage had caused stonework to crumble and
ceilings to collapse; at least 50 rooms were uninhabitable. The 8th Earl and his family were living in a
"modest cottage in the grounds"; he said his ancestors were
responsible for the castle's long term problems. As of 2009, repairs needed for
the entire estate were estimated to cost around £12 million, £1.8 million of which was urgently
needed just for the castle.
As of
late 2012, Lord and Lady Carnarvon have stated that a dramatic increase in the
number of paying visitors has allowed them to begin major repairs on both
Highclere's turrets and its interior. The family attributes this increase in
interest to the on-site filming of Downton Abbey. The family now live in
Highclere during the winter months, but return to their cottage in the summer,
when the castle is open to the public
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