A Review of: Christmas at Highclere: Recipes and Traditions from The Real Downton Abbey & Tour

/ the.tartan.topiary
Highclere Castle, known as "the real Downton Abbey," bustles with activity all year round, but it is never more alive than at Christmas. This book is a look behind the scenes at the routines and rituals that make the castle the most magical place to be throughout the festive season. Lady Carnarvon will guide you through Advent, Christmas preparations and Christmas Eve, all the way through to the day itself, and beyond. Learn how the manor and grounds are transformed by decorations, including the raising of a 20-foot tree in the saloon and the gathering of holly and mistletoe from the grounds. This book also tells the story of historic Christmases at Highclere-of distinguished guests warming themselves by the fire after a long journey home through the snow, unexpected knocks on the door, and, always, the joy of bringing family-and staff-together after a busy year. As well as telling the stories of Highclere Christmases past and present, Lady Carnarvon provides recipes, tips and inspiration from her kitchen so that readers can bring a quintessentially British festive spirit to their own home. The festive feeling is carried through to Highclere's Boxing Day traditions, the restorative middle days and the New Year's Eve celebrations. Lavish, celebratory and utterly enchanting, Highclere at Christmas is the perfect gift for any Downton Abbey fan.
MERRYWORD Bedding
www.amazon.com...

[@casandradickinson8518]

In 2019 I attended a special event at Highclere, I met Lord and Lady Carnarvon, a very delightful couple, beautiful home and grounds too. Thanks fir sharing your gorgeous home😃

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm jealous. We had a trip planned just before Covid. I'll get there one day. Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@raffaellarabizzi129]

The story of our trees is the story of our lives!!! Really sweet and true🥹

[@thetartantopiary]

They really are miniature biographies! Thanks for watching.

[@jleechadwick]

I am thankful to still have the ornaments that my mother had gotten in the 1940s. They are prettier than the ones you currently get and I remember her every time I put them up.

[@susandelongis885]

You have created the perfect Christmas video. The Highclere book is stunning. And your home is so beautiful and warm. From the Intro on, you invite us into a truly magical world, which has sparked so many cherished memories for me. You’ve taken me back to ribbon bows on trees from making do to marvelous and all the loving family gatherings those trees symbolize, even to the scent simmering on the stove. Now that I am old and bed bound, you’ve taken me back to relive so many cherished times, I’m brought to tears. Thank you and blessings of special, Christmas joy to you and yours.

[@thetartantopiary]

Sweet Susan, you are so thoughtful to say that. Christmas touches our souls and sparks memories that are dear to us. Your comment is lovely, and you must be a special lady! I hope your Christmas is as special as you are! Sending love from North Carolina.

[@susandelongis885]

Thank you so much for your kind reply and Christmas good wishes. I’ve forwarded your beautiful video to friends. I’m sure you’ll lift the spirits of more people than you could know!

[@pamelawilliams7174]

I love your idea of “simple” decorating. So beautiful.

[@thetartantopiary]

I've seen some elaborate Christmas decorating and I can't match most of it, so I felt the disclaimer of "simple" was needed. Thank you! 😉

[@a.urbanchuk513]

Highclere books are amazing. I have every book she has written. Enjoy the history.

[@a.urbanchuk513]

Their Gin is outstanding

[@2atthemill190]

What a treat to see what many of us are familiar with as Downton Abbey in all its Christmas glory. I enjoyed your decorations as well, especially the small wreaths with white berries and the touches of tartan embellishments.

[@sandravijftigschild9317]

I must admit that the decor ist not what I would go for, ,but I too found the white berrie wreaths very tastfull and elegant looking.

[@susanarends2174]

Your house is exquisite! I aspire to have such an elegant, cozy, hospitable home such as yours - I’m besotted! Thank you for sharing!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you. I really do appreciate your comment and thanks for watching.

[@leiladarling4495]

Good Morning! Thank you for perpetuating the warmth of the Christmas Season!

[@jeffcarnes3898]

I've been meaning to tell you how much I enjoy your presentations through video. I especially enjoy the personal information you provide by including your beautiful house and interior treasures. Thank you and please keep these excellent reviews coming - you are providing a great service that is wholesome, entertaining, and kind. I do appreciate you!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for the message and thanks for watching. I'm glad you are enjoying the channel and I appreciate the encouragement.

[@natividadcebrian9767]

Yo no celebro la navidad pero es preciosa su decoración y me gusta mucho cómo sabe combinar lo nuevo y lo viejo, gracias por sus vídeos me alegran la vida

[@thetartantopiary]

La Navidad es muy importante para mí. Me alegra que puedas apreciarlo. Gracias por las amables palabras.

[@susanhonkoski7706]

I’ve been waiting for the “magic” to show itself to me, your video is just what I needed to get in the spirit of the holiday🎄🌲❤. Thank you for the inspiration!!! Just Beautiful!!!

[@miriam8026]

The book looks absolutely desirable! A thorough guide through the darkest time of the year. Thank you for the tour as well - I especially enjoyed seeing your butler's pantry and the desk, because I think everyone should have those ''helpers'' in the kitchen.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I use those two areas of the house many times each day!

[@elizabethlara4070]

Thank you for another wonderful book review and for sharing your home decorating. All beautifully done! Loved the kitchen and tree! Happy holidays!

[@maureenlee-grant5773]

Thank you for this thoughtful book review about family, Christmas traditions and recipes. It's a great reminder of what is important, especially at this time of year. As human beings, and no matter where we call home, your review and subsequent tour of your front hall, butler's pantry and kitchen demonstrates that what we have in common far outweighs our differences. Thank you for sharing your traditions and honoring your lived experiences. Truly uplifting. Looking forward to your next review.

[@thetartantopiary]

Very thoughtful- thank you.

[@moniquemckenna6795]

As alway, you truly deliver a wonderful inspiration for the onset of Christmas. Thank you. Christmas can be both simple or glamorous, either way they inspire all the love that goes into creating magic for both adults and children, of course not forgetting our four legged friend, both present and past and the memories and smiles they give us. So blessed are we ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

Yes, indeed! Thanks for your comment.

[@teresavaughan3588]

What a beautiful book. I enjoy your videos showing parts of your home at the end. It is so warm and inviting, especially with the beauty of Christmas added. Enjoyed!

[@silviahahne5433]

Sua cozinha é LINDA...adorei todos os cantos e a forma acolhedora, convidativa que a sua casa tem. Feliz Natal e que o espirito Natalina esteja com você e sua família. Brasil - Rio de Janeiro .

[@thetartantopiary]

Gracias por favor!

[@lindaortolano7837]

Hi Mary, Thank you for another beautiful and interesting book review. I love seeing the real Downton Abbey and the beautiful magical Christmas decor. I also enjoyed seeing your beautiful Christmas decor. So charming and inviting. I also have a similar Christmas tree story and its funny when we thought we were so poor we were actually very rich. How lucky are we to be able to appreciate how far we have come and have memories to reminisce (some really funny) while we decorate our current tree! I guess I really wouldn't change a thing. See you in the next video....Hugs! :)

[@thetartantopiary]

Hi Linda- Thanks for saying hello. As I think about your comment and look back on those lean years, they were indeed rich in happiness, and I wouldn't change them either. I would not have said that then, but age gives one a better perspective. Hugs back to you!

[@mrs.z1172]

KZbin recommended your channel, and I’m so happy, your voice is so soothing, I love simplicity as well, to me a great decor is the one you treasure year after year , can’t wait to see more from you , be blessed ❤❤❤

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you- So glad you were introduced to the channel. I appreciate you taking the time to say hello!

[@yolandagarza7897]

This video touched my heart, brought peace to my soul ❤, beautiful Victorian home, the Christmas holidays are brighter with magical videos like this ❤Happy holidays 🎄 from Texas 🐎🌲

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for the thoughtful comment. I always appreciate them!

[@MrAnthonyPatrick]

Everything you do is truly amazing once again thank you so much.

[@thetartantopiary]

You are very kind to say that- thank you!

[@lindawatts5260]

Well done in every way. Love the tour of the kitchen & foyer along with the story about your first tree. Sweet memories of treasured Christmas past. We all need to take the time to remember the little things and how special each one is to make us who we are today. God Bless you and can’t wait to the next story . Merry Christmas .

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I so appreciate your thoughtful comment and Merry Christmas to you also!

[@giselekoenig853]

😂 waouh. J'adore. Joli remake d'une série que j'avais aimé. Merci pour ce joli moment.🙏⛩️🧑‍🦳👑

[@jacquelinearcher1158]

Love this book it comes out in November and I love dipping in and out of it again and again ..great coffee table book too.

[@redbird415hann5]

TT, Just delightful decorations. Thank you.

[@eileenstrahan5972]

Your review of Highclere at Christmas was so fabulously entertaining and informative. It's so fortunate that this castle can be preserved and enjoyed especially during the holidays. Thank you for sharing your cozy and unique home. It's so refreshing to see your collected and personal decorations. Being from the South I love a traditional home. Can't wait for your next video. Greetings from Alabama 🎄

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank for saying hello. And yes, it is fortunate that Highclere can be preserved. Preservation is near and dear to my heart. I appreciate your comment and thanks for watching.

[@maryjimdale7031]

I am often envious of christmases celebrated in the northern hemisphere. They seem so magical. Instead of snow and candlelight, I’ll be enjoying the Australian summer with sun, sand and sunscreen; prawns, presents and perspiration. He is the reason, whatever the season.

[@thetartantopiary]

I spent Christmas in the sun and sand one year and it was FABULOUS! And you are right, "He is the reason, whatever the season"!

[@jenh9361]

Always Delightful... Thank You!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you!

[@bwiseok]

Absolutely the most beautiful kitchen I love it!!

[@kayjongsma4485]

I have this book but your review has made it brand new, I am seeing it with fresh eyes. Thank you for the time and effort you put into these videos

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I appreciate that!

[@javierdealba6868]

That is absolutely gorgeous thank you for sharing 🙏🙏🙏🌹

[@janetphillips2875]

I finally have a big, beautiful cedar inside and out 5500 sq ft home to decorate with all my stuff, and now Im too sickly to get it done. I ask anyone who watches this to please pray for me. Thanks

[@thetartantopiary]

I will certainly do that! Do you live anywhere near Wilmington NC? I would love to help! I actually do this with a group of interior designers (all good friends) for elderly in this area.

[@loretta7851]

Love this video! I’ve ordered the Merrywood sheet set. Can’t wait . Hope to visit Highclere next year❤️🎄

[@vivienmcnaul109]

Your video brought me joy. The book was lovely of course being a fan of the series. You think of everything. Even the paper music in the typewriter. I love the plaid and the warmth of the reds. I usually make a trifle but not everyone likes it as much as me. I have my Christmas crackers ready and introducing my blue and white chinosserie into the decor.

[@thetartantopiary]

I've only made a trifle once. I'm excited about your blue and white chinoiserie. Thanks for watching! 💗

[@serena6477]

Beautiful home!! Love all the details!!

[@nevafitzgerald2402]

Awesome love this ❤❤🙏 thank you!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@elizabethhealey5609]

Very beautiful house , with beautiful Christmas decor and lot of memory , thank you very much to share🥰

[@susanchase4839]

Your home looks beautifully inviting. I love how you decorated these areas you shared ❤️

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you!

[@pamelaprivette5361]

Your kitchen is SO BEAUTIFUL! And that unusual brass light fixture is just elegant! I was especially touched by the handmade, 4th grade Chistmas ornaments made by you and your husband! How special to own something that originated from that period in your life---espcially the husband! Enjoyed this video---I love going back in time! Merry Christmas!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, the light is Lilly Pulitzer. It matches the wallpaper on my ceiling. When I saw it, I knew it had to come live with me.

[@pamelaprivette5361]

@@thetartantopiary I just love when that happens! You see something---and you just know it was meant for YOU! Happy Holiday---To You And Yours!

[@vickeypierce293]

Love the video and your house is gorgeous

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you!

[@ashleighjaimaosborne3966]

Magical, thank you for sharing this…😊

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for watching!

[@robertwessels9827]

Love it! I also really enjoyed your house!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much. I love Christmas and all that it brings.

[@MariaReyes-te7lk]

Super nice book! The decor of Christmas tree and kitchen are very pretty and full happy moment to remember , it' s beautiful.Thank you..

[@valescafalqueto5547]

Hi Tartan, it’s Beautiful! I love that! Thank you.

[@adeledelarosa7819]

WOW...I am a super dupper, forever fan of Downton Abbey and super aware of how your family and the castles' association with King TuT and their ties...love egyptian history, the victorian era and style....what a treat to find you and for sharing the inner Christmas in your home. Thank you...Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and God Bless you and your family and friends.....from So Califronia.....byeeeeeee

[@grigsbywhite3309]

What a holiday celebration in your lovely home. Simply beautiful. We loved Downton and what a great book review. Tempting to purchase myself a copy.

[@thetartantopiary]

When Downton Abbey ended, I went into mourning. Last year I watched the entire series again (one episode each night) and it was just as good as the first time. I appreciate your comment.

[@kimfirstraised.8487]

Just beautiful. Thank you for sharing

[@lrlntad]

I truly enjoyed all your presentations. Thank you

[@TheFiown]

I read some years ago that when they were restoring the paintwork in one of the rooms they realised that the door frames were actually cupboards painted over many times and when they prised them open they were full of Egyptian artifacts from Lord Carnarvon's days as an Egyptologist.

[@thetartantopiary]

I saw that on a documentary. Can you imagine that? What a treasure. The documentary was so interesting as it was only about the archeological digs and discoveries made while financed by Lord Carnarvon and it even touched on the supposed curse that caused his death.

[@lb2229]

Beautiful

[@svetlanaalenina4430]

Очень красиво ❤

[@richardgraham5598]

❤️ your home =monumental

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I appreciate that!

[@gildastigliano7936]

we pretty much love the same stuff!!!! lovin' that kitchen chandelier (gold-3-light)....omg!!!!!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I found that chandelier at the Furniture Market in High Point, NC. It is Lilly Pulitzer and they had it displayed in a little girl's room. A little girl lives in my soul, so I got it for her. 😊

[@freelancelady]

And in all of that the real reason for a Christmas has been lost…which is to give for the needy, whether in need of material things or in need of spiritual comfort. 😢😢😢

[@janiceminuto1707]

Your Christmas video is wonderful and I enjoyed seeing beautiful Highclere, however your home is elegant, stylish, and very inviting, which is in the true spirit of Christmas. Blessings to you and your family

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I do love Christmas and blessings to you as well!

[@Dulcimertunes]

Well done!

[@Nightbird1914]

Thank you! You now have a new subscriber ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

I am thrilled to have you as a new subscriber. Thank you for watching and I appreciate your comment!

[@yanickfouchard9235]

Your home is so beautiful Mary . Please write a book someday .

[@thetartantopiary]

You are sweet. I actually have written a book, but it was not on interior design. It is a history of a small farming town in North Carolina that was developed through land grants given by King George III. Here is a link in case you're interested. www.carolinabeach.net/wallace.html

[@tina8796]

I see you love nutcrackers, too. Gorgeous kitchen. I'm getting ready to have mine remodeled in all white. Great video

[@thetartantopiary]

Yes, Santa leaves one for my son every year. They almost all belong to him. I only have a few from Germany. Thanks for watching.

[@jenniferblomeley14]

Thank you - it so nice to elegant decorations - Merry Christmas from Australia

[@thetartantopiary]

Wow- Merry Christmas to you!

[@watcher9997]

My first Christmas tree was very much like yours. I bought the tree and some lights. I didn't have any ribbon, so I bought a package of red pipe cleaners that I fashioned into bows.

[@thetartantopiary]

I love Christmas and it was that year that made me realize Christmas isn’t in a store, but rather in ones heart. Of course, I still wanted all the decorations, but my heart was decorated and that was enough!

[@watcher9997]

@@thetartantopiary I'm the same way. There is something so magical about Christmas. I'm still in love with the red comforter on your guest bed. Could you please share the source? Thank you and enjoy your upcoming Memorial Day weekend!

[@thetartantopiary]

@@watcher9997 yes- it is a duvet set I ordered from Pottery Barn several years ago. I do not remember the name of the toile pattern. Ebay may be a good source as they have “new old stock” items often.

[@watcher9997]

@@thetartantopiary thank you! It is stunning!

[@karellarsen939]

So beautiful! I love your channel! ❤ 🎄 ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I really appreciate that!

[@xiloaperez453]

Beautiful.🎄⛄

[@suzieq2493]

Love your videos. Love your home!

[@wkielpinskasurdyk1408]

PERFECT HAPPY CHRISTMAS Visha

[@buickinvicta288]

Very nice. I have a collection of tole trays also, yours are lovely. Your home is so festive, enjoy!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you. I do love a tole tray. I think I have a thing for trays in general. 😊

[@stacystoltz8722]

Hello So Cute for the party cheer

[@faragraf9380]

christmas for the rich is just a festival. it does not show the real christmas meaning, which spend gifts to others who in need. christmas is the celebrating of Jesus birth, all gifts belongs to him. But he is so kind to give them back to us. merry🎄

[@midoann]

Thank you always for sharing these amazing ID books (do you buy them all?). And your house is full of beautiful items 🎉. from 🇯🇵 arigatou 😊

[@thetartantopiary]

I do buy most of them. I’ve received a few as gifts from viewers and authors.

[@clarissahopkins1148]

What an enchanting foyer. Beautiful Christmas tree. I especially like those pagoda ornaments. Where did you purchase them? Thank you for the lovely book review.

[@thetartantopiary]

Hi and thank you! I got the ornaments last year at a gift shop in Williamsburg, VA. They had a tag that said “Jaye’s Studio”. I have seen some similar on Etsy.

[@lauriediener5328]

🎄

[@user-fe2fk7jb7l]

This is beautiful This beautiful but where is the reason for this glorious season Jesus of Nazareth😢🙏

[@thetartantopiary]

This book is a representation of how the family at Highclere prepares and celebrates Christmas. The Christmas tree represents Jesus Christ's birth and resurrection. The tree branches and bushes are regarded as a sign of immortality and are thought to represent Christ's crown of thorns on the crucifixion. Likewise, many ornaments used to decorate the Christmas tree are believed to have a specific meaning. Christmas tree lights signify the light of God's spirit. The Christmas wreaths represents God's boundless love for humanity with no beginning or end. Throughout the book there are many other symbolic representations of the birth of Jesus.

[@mariemaier3115]

Schade, dass es keine deutsche Untertitel hat..aber sonst wunderschön 👍

[@robbinstephensyork8864]

🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰.......✌️💜💋

[@eugenefried5609]

stunning, i should think ! Does the monumental poverty so widespread in our world affect these overlydone celebrations ?? Did Marvin Gaye and Billie Holiday ever be received as royalty in such pompous decor ?? I wonder..........................................

[@thetartantopiary]

It’s an inevitable part of life. To answer your subjective question simply, I would say yes, allegorically and literally.

[@Frauenhaus]

I am more into nature than all this deco and pomp.

[@karenstein1490]

this headline is MISLEADING! its sounds like an AD for a book! very annoying! and narrated by an american???

[@thetartantopiary]

I can’t believe an American narrated this either! I bet they’ll protest taxes on tea next!

[@abenawilliams6623]

Beautiful