DOWNTON Abbey is being credited for a boost in visitors to Somerset’s Cothelstone Manor.
"Part of the mystique of Downton Abbey is seeing how residents once lived in the last century - well this tour takes guests back nearly a thousand years,” said Nigel Muers-Raby, who lives in the 16th Century house and leads guided tours.
"Visitors can hear about the history of the manor and church from its beginnings in 1066 through the turbulence of the English Civil War to its renaissance in the 19th Century.
"We also like our guests to be able to relax and see how the house is lived in today, so our group tours always include a delicious tea served in the house itself."
The manor, which is not normally open to the public, will have 'invitation to view' tours on Sunday May 10, Sunday September 27 and Sunday December 6 (a special Christmas tour).
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