Downton Abbey fans, collectors, and lovers of British period drama are in for a treat this summer as a treasure trove of the show’s most memorable props and costumes goes on public display and up for auction at Bonhams in London. This unique event, running until September 16, 2025, not only offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the award-winning series but also gives enthusiasts a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of television history—all while supporting a worthy cause.
The exhibition, housed at Bonhams auction house on New Bond Street, features an impressive array of 267 lots. According to Oxford Mail, among the highlights is a striking 1925 Sunbeam Saloon Chassis car, expected to fetch between £25,000 and £35,000. For those who recall the grandeur and romance of Lady Mary’s wedding, her iconic dress and accessories, worn by actress Michelle Dockery, are also up for grabs, with estimates reaching up to £5,000. The collection doesn’t stop there: from the Downton Abbey Bell Wall to period furniture, books, cooking utensils, door knobs, light switches, and even letters featured in the show, the sale reads like an inventory of the Crawley family’s estate.
The exhibition is open to the public free of charge, but visitors must secure a time slot in advance via Eventbrite. As detailed by LondonWorld, the display is open on select dates and times between August 18 and September 16, 2025. The closest Underground stop is Bond Street, making the event easily accessible for both Londoners and those traveling from afar. Whether you’re a casual fan or a diehard devotee, the chance to see and perhaps even own a piece of the show’s storied past is sure to be a memorable experience.
Of course, Downton Abbey has long been more than just a television series. Since its debut in 2010, the show has captivated audiences around the globe, earning Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Primetime Emmy Awards. Its six seasons, capped by a much-loved Christmas special in December 2015, were followed by two successful spin-off films. Now, anticipation is mounting for the third and final installment, set to hit cinemas this September. The timing of the exhibition and auction is no accident—it’s a fitting farewell to a cultural phenomenon that has defined British period drama for a generation.
Filming for Downton Abbey was a grand affair, with locations spanning the English countryside. While Highclere Castle in Hampshire served as the iconic backdrop for the Crawley family estate, Oxfordshire played a starring role as well. The picturesque village of Bampton doubled as "Downton village," while other scenes were shot at Cogges Manor Farm in Witney, Kingston Bagpuize House near Abingdon, and Basildon Park in Berkshire. These settings, lovingly recreated through meticulous set design, are reflected in many of the items now on display and up for auction.
Gareth Neame, CEO of Carnival Films—the production company behind Downton Abbey—was recently spotted at Bonhams alongside series actress Penelope Wilton, surrounded by the very props that helped bring the world of Downton to life. As Oxford Mail reported, Neame’s presence underscored the significance of the event, not just as an auction but as a celebration of the show’s enduring legacy. For fans, the opportunity to see these artifacts up close is a chance to relive the magic of the series—whether it’s the glint of Lady Mary’s tiara, the well-worn pages of a prop letter, or the imposing elegance of the Sunbeam Saloon.
But the event is about more than nostalgia. The auction’s proceeds will benefit Together for Short Lives, a charity dedicated to supporting children with life-limiting conditions and their families. It’s a cause that resonates with the show’s themes of family, resilience, and compassion. As the excitement builds for the final film and the curtain falls on Downton Abbey’s televised chapter, the auction offers a way for the show’s legacy to make a tangible difference in the real world.
For those planning to visit, the exhibition’s schedule is thoughtfully arranged to accommodate a range of visitors. According to LondonWorld, opening hours vary by date, with most days running from 10am to 4pm, though some days have shorter hours or are closed entirely. It’s wise to check the Bonhams website or Eventbrite for the most up-to-date information before making the trip. And while admission is free, booking a time slot is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.
What sets this auction apart is the sheer breadth and authenticity of the items on offer. These aren’t mere replicas or promotional pieces—they are the very props, costumes, and set pieces that graced the screen over six acclaimed seasons and two feature films. For collectors, this is a rare chance to acquire objects with genuine provenance, each carrying its own story and connection to the world of Downton Abbey. For fans, simply being in the presence of these artifacts is a thrill, a chance to step into the shoes (or perhaps the gloves) of their favorite characters, if only for a moment.
The excitement around the exhibition and auction is only heightened by the impending release of the third and final Downton Abbey film. As the franchise prepares to take its final bow, the sale of these iconic pieces feels both celebratory and bittersweet. It’s a reminder of how deeply the show has embedded itself in popular culture, from its unforgettable characters and sumptuous costumes to its intricate storytelling and evocative settings.
Ultimately, the Downton Abbey exhibition and auction at Bonhams is more than just a sale—it’s a farewell party, a charitable endeavor, and a love letter to the fans who have kept the show alive for over a decade. Whether you’re hoping to walk away with Lady Mary’s wedding dress, a piece of the Bell Wall, or simply a memory of standing among television history, there’s something for everyone at this extraordinary event. And as the final film prepares to draw the curtain on Downton Abbey’s storied run, the legacy of the Crawleys and their world will live on—not just on screen, but in the homes and hearts of those lucky enough to claim a piece of it.
