Viking has officially joined forces with Focus Features, Universal Pictures, and Carnival Films to mark the highly anticipated return of "Downton Abbey" with an exciting sweepstakes event. This comes as a celebration for the release of "Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale," set to premiere in theaters across the U.S. and U.K. on September 12, 2023. Viking’s longstanding relationship with the Masterpiece collection has been fruitful since it launched its national corporate sponsorship in 2011, which notably included the beloved "Downton Abbey" television series.
Grand Prize: Exclusive Trip to Highclere Castle
Viking’s current sweepstakes is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada and runs until September 30, 2023. Participants will have the chance to win an extraordinary trip for two on Viking’s Paris & the Heart of Normandy itinerary, which includes a three-night extension at Oxford and Highclere Castle. The grand prize also covers roundtrip business class flights, making it an alluring opportunity for fans of the series to experience the opulence of the locations featured in "Downton Abbey."
This isn’t Viking’s first foray into sweepstakes tied to the franchise. During the promotion for the second "Downton Abbey" film, which debuted in 2022, Viking also offered a similar sweepstakes, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to celebrating this iconic series.
Dedicated Experiences at Highclere Castle
In addition to the sweepstakes, Viking has developed a dedicated page for Highclere Castle, the historic estate where "Downton Abbey" is filmed. This page features various itineraries that include exclusive extensions to the castle, curated in collaboration with the Carnarvon family, the estate’s owners. Since 2014, Viking has provided unique visitor experiences at Highclere, giving fans an intimate glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of the renowned series.
Explore Ancient Egypt with Viking
Travel lovers will also be delighted to know that they can visit Highclere Castle not just on dedicated trips but also through pre- and post-cruise extensions available on various river and ocean cruises. For instance, the British Collections of Ancient Egypt extension is a five-day pre-cruise journey that follows in the footsteps of famed Egyptologist Howard Carter and his benefactor, the Fifth Earl of Carnarvon. This unique experience allows guests to see the earl’s private collection of Egyptian artifacts, housed in Highclere Castle.
Viking continues to blend historical elegance with modern luxury, making it a top choice for travelers who wish to explore the charming settings of their favorite television series and delve into fascinating histories. Whether you’re a devoted "Downton Abbey" fan or a traveler seeking enriching experiences, Viking’s offerings promise an unforgettable journey.
