Fans of the celebrated British drama Downton Abbey are being offered a rare chance to own a piece of television history as dozens of iconic props and costumes from the series go up for auction at Bonhams in London. The event, which coincides with the show’s conclusion in September 2025, has drawn excitement from devoted followers eager to get their hands on memorable items that defined the beloved period saga.
The auction, hosted by Bonhams auction house, opened its doors for a public exhibition on August 18, 2025, allowing fans and collectors alike to get up close to a treasure trove of memorabilia before the bidding began. The anticipation in the air was palpable as visitors strolled through the displays on New Bond Street, soaking in the nostalgia that only a show like Downton Abbey can evoke. According to Bonhams, the exhibition remains free and open to the public until September 16, 2025, with online bidding running concurrently for those unable to attend in person.
Among the standout items is the instantly recognizable “bell wall,” the servant’s call system that played a pivotal role in the series from its very first episode to its final scenes. Charlie Thomas, head of the auction at Bonhams, couldn’t hide his enthusiasm for this particular piece. "Just to prove it’s a working bell, look at that – I expect someone’s going to deliver tea in a minute," he joked to reporters, according to South China Morning Post, while demonstrating the bell’s chime. The bell wall is expected to fetch between £6,000 (US$8,100) and £8,000, though Thomas suspects it may well surpass its pre-sale estimate given its iconic status among fans.
But the bell wall is far from the only gem on offer. For those with a penchant for glamour, Lady Mary Crawley’s pale apricot chiffon wedding dress—worn by Michelle Dockery in her on-screen marriage to Matthew (Dan Stevens)—is up for grabs. The ensemble, complete with ivory satin Mary Jane shoes, a sparkling paste tiara, delicate veil, and a bouquet of prop lilies, is anticipated to sell for between £3,000 and £5,000 (€3,500-€5,800), according to Euronews.
Not to be outdone, the wardrobe of the formidable Dowager Countess, Violet Crawley, is also represented. A dress worn by the late Dame Maggie Smith, who brought the character to life with wit and gravitas, is among the coveted lots. The inclusion of such personal items from the show’s stars has only heightened the auction’s appeal, with fans of Dame Maggie Smith particularly eager to see her costumes find new homes.
For car enthusiasts and lovers of vintage style, the Grantham family’s 1925 Sunbeam Saloon is arguably the crown jewel of the auction. First appearing in season two and making regular appearances through seasons three to five and all three Downton Abbey films, the car is a true piece of motoring history. Bonhams notes that it is one of just 45 surviving examples of its kind, and it carries a pre-sale estimate of £25,000 to £35,000 (€29,000-€40,500). The car’s presence in so many pivotal scenes has made it an object of fascination for fans and collectors alike.
Other notable items include lady’s maid and footman uniforms, Mr Carson’s silver pocket watch, and a large refectory table from the servants’ hall—a setting where much of the show’s drama unfolded. For those who cherish the written word, a script from the very first episode, signed by cast members including Dame Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, and Samantha Bond, is expected to sell for £600 to £800 (€700-€900). Each item, whether grand or humble, carries with it a slice of the show’s storied past.
Beyond the nostalgia and excitement, the auction serves a charitable purpose. All proceeds from the sale will go to Together for Short Lives, a UK-based children’s charity that supports children living with life-limiting conditions and the families who care for them. Executive producer Gareth Neame expressed pride in the auction’s dual mission, telling Euronews, "The world of Downton Abbey is beloved around the globe for its rich, timeless storytelling. These iconic set items hold a special place in that history, and we are proud to see them help support the vital work of Together for Short Lives."
For many, the chance to own a piece of Downton Abbey is more than just acquiring memorabilia—it’s a way to keep the spirit of the series alive as it draws to a close. As reported by South China Morning Post, the series is set to end in September 2025, making this auction a fitting farewell for fans who have followed the Crawley family’s fortunes through triumph and tragedy. The timing of the auction, just weeks before the finale, has only intensified interest, with some predicting that prices will soar well beyond initial estimates.
The auction also reflects the enduring global appeal of Downton Abbey. Since its debut, the series has captivated viewers with its meticulous attention to historical detail, sumptuous costumes, and complex characters. The items on display at Bonhams are not just props; they are artifacts of a world painstakingly brought to life by a talented cast and crew.
Charlie Thomas, the man at the helm of the auction, believes that certain items—like the bell wall—will attract spirited bidding. "Everyone has their favourite piece," he said, and the diversity of lots ensures that there is something for every fan, whether they are drawn to the elegance of Lady Mary’s wardrobe or the practical charm of the servants’ hall.
The exhibition itself has become a gathering place for fans, some of whom have traveled from across the UK and beyond to catch a glimpse of the objects that shaped their favorite show. The atmosphere is one of celebration and nostalgia, with visitors swapping stories about their favorite episodes and characters. For many, simply seeing the items in person is a thrill—owning them would be a dream come true.
As the auction continues, all eyes are on Bonhams to see which items will command the highest bids and where these pieces of television history will find their next homes. Whether it’s a sparkling tiara, a battered script, or the unmistakable chime of the bell wall, each artifact tells a story—one that fans will cherish long after the final credits roll.
With the curtain set to fall on Downton Abbey, this auction offers a unique opportunity for fans to hold onto a tangible piece of its legacy while supporting a worthy cause. For those who have laughed, cried, and dreamed alongside the Crawleys, it’s a fitting tribute to a show that has left an indelible mark on television history.
