Visiting destinations where some of the most famous movies and television shows are filmed is a bucket-list experience for many, but, how about getting a behind-the-scenes look with a local private guide?
Those are the kind of experiences Kensington Tours’ clients have been increasingly seeking, most recently inspired by the upcoming film release of Downton Abbey, not to mention the final season of HBO’s mega-hit, Game of Thrones.
As Alison Hickey, president of Kensington Tours, explains, “When we pioneered custom, private-guided travel over a decade ago, it was with the belief that authentic, local culture was best experienced with a private guide.”
And she continues, “Today, access to those local experts and our fully customizable itineraries is what allows us to accommodate any client request, including getting insider access to locations made famous by popular films and television.”
For example, a visit to Highclere Castle – the 19th-century Jacobethan-style country house used in the filming of Emmy-award winning series Downton Abbey – is an available option with a variety of Kensington Tours’ customizable itineraries to England.
Visitors can get an in-depth tour of the castle grounds and gardens; visit the parish of Bampton used for the show’s village scenes; explore the home of character Matthew Crawley; the church; the pub and the cottage hospital.
In a number of destinations throughout Europe – including Iceland, Ireland, Croatia, Spain, Morocco and Malta – a Game of Thrones location option can be added.
In Iceland, travellers can explore the area of Lake Myvatn also known as the “land beyond The Wall” in HBO’s fantasy series, with stops including Skaftafell Glacier, The Milkwater river and the Grjotagja cave. These location options were selected with the guidance of one of the Icelandic extras on set.
In Spain, clients can wander Girona used for filming of Kings Landing, and visit the Castle of Santa Florentina which fans know as “Horn Hill.”
And, in Northern Ireland, archery is one of the highlights with lessons provided by the same instructor that trained the show’s cast.
Jolene Plant, director, product – Europe for Kensington Tours, points out that: “Visiting destinations that are backdrops to blockbuster movies or hit TV shows has been a big phenomenon in pop culture the past several years.”
Plant said that Kensington has “seen an increase in these types of requests and our Destination Experts are excited to help curate those experiences. Whether it be a multi-country Game of Thrones itinerary or just a day trip added to an already existing itinerary, all of our tours are customizable and personalized for every client.”
For over a decade, Kensington Tours has created privately guided trips for discerning travellers. It has a staff of 150 knowledgeable Destination Experts who can tailor any of its over 600 itineraries to clients specific needs. Currently, the company operates trips in more than 90 countries worldwide offering handcrafted itineraries, expertise and local insights.
Go to www.Kensingtontours.com for more.
