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Explore TV returns to our screens this Sunday at 4:30pm on Channel Nine with an episode dedicated to Viking’s three-night Privileged Access Oxford & Highclere Castle extension to England’s rolling countryside.

Host Trevor Cochrane will explore the historic University of Oxford, Blenheim Palace (where Winston Churchill was born), the Cotswolds region as well as Highclere Castle, recognised by fans worldwide as the ‘real Downton Abbey’.

“In the final installment of Explore TV for 2019, we’re thrilled to be taking you to the famous Highclere Castle. Viking’s Oxford & Highclere Castle land package is one of our most popular extensions, and should you or your clients love Downton Abbey, this is an episode not to be missed,” said Lee Siefken, Viking GM Marketing and Comms ANZ.

Viking’s Oxford & Highclere Castle – the line’s highest rated extension – is one of three Privileged Access extensions to Highclere Castle, the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, building on the success of Viking’s longstanding relationship with the Carnarvon family.

A brand new four-night extension was recently announced – Great Homes, Gardens & Gin – which has been designed to provide an exclusive look at several country estates that have served as the settings of acclaimed TV productions, including Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle), Wolf Hall (Broughton Castle, home to the Fiennes family) and Poldark (Chavenage House). While visiting Highclere Castle, guests will have an opportunity to taste Highclere Castle Gin, a super-premium London Dry Gin inspired by botanicals from the castle’s gardens. The extension also includes a visit to the nearby Bombay Sapphire Distillery to learn the history and production of gin. The extension commences 2021 on select Rhine Getaway and British Isles Explorer itineraries.

Highclere Castle, England

Plus earlier this year, Viking announced the five-day British Collections of Ancient Egypt, a pre-cruise extension for the Pharaohs & Pyramids Nile River cruise itinerary, which allows guests to retrace the steps of the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon. Guests experience Privileged Access to archives and museum exhibits not normally accessible to the public, and at Highclere Castle, have the opportunity view the earl’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artefacts.

Viking offers a range of pre and post-cruise extensions which can be added to a cruise, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a destination with a seamless package that combines first class accommodation in the city or town centre together with transfers, guided tours and the services of a dedicated Viking host throughout.

Tune into Channel Nine this Sunday afternoon at 4.30pm for the eighth instalment of Explore TV’s cruising special.