Great News

Huge congratulations are in order for our fellow writer, Clive, who has secured a fantastic runner-up spot in a prestigious creative writing competition organised earlier this summer by Highclere Castle—globally renowned as the filming location for Downton Abbey.

Facing fierce competition from over 350 entrants across the board, Clive’s entry stood out in the category requiring a 1,000-word critique of a personally admired novel. Clive chose to write about Le Grand Meaulnes by Alain Fournier, a poignant French classic exploring youthful angst, lost love, and the transition into adulthood.

Clive was invited to a special prize-giving ceremony at the castle hosted by Lady Carnarvon (alongside her husband, Lord Carnarvon, the godson of the late Queen), where he was presented with a certificate and a £100 prize cheque.

Following the presentation, Clive enjoyed an extended conversation with Lady Carnarvon covering literature, playwriting, and literacy, alongside fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from the years of filming Downton Abbey. Lady Carnarvon also highlighted the estate's magnificent historic library, which boasts numerous first-edition volumes dating back to the era of Charles Dickens and beyond.

The visit concluded with a private tour of the famous interiors, allowing Clive to experience firsthand the recognisable settings of the beloved television and film series.

Highclere Castle Success for Clive