The World of Downton Abbey

Downton Abbey has captured the imagination of the nation. Written by Oscar-winning writer Julian Fellowes the show has become the benchmark for quality drama, and a commentary on all things British.

Downton Abbey portrays a world of elegance and decadence, a world of duty and obedience and a world of romance and rivalry: this companion book, full of rich historical detail, takes fans deeper into that period than ever before.

Step inside one of the most beautiful houses in Britain, past Carson the butler at the front door and into the grand hallway. Catch a glimpse of the family having drinks in the drawing room before dinner, dressed in their evening finery, whilst Lord Grantham finishes writing a letter in his study. Then climb the grand sweeping staircase to the maze of rooms upstairs and peak through Lady Mary’s open door to see Anna, her maid, tidying scent bottles and jewellery on the ornate dressing table. Follow Anna down the servants’ stairs and into the kitchens to watch Mrs Patmore frantically preparing dinner. Mrs Hughes keeps a watchful eye from her study and the world of Downton comes alive before you.

Experience the inner workings of the downstairs life and be dazzled by the glamour of upstairs life with profiles of all the major characters, interviews with the actors, behind the scenes insights and in-depth information on costumes and props.

Reviews

"The sets and costumes are ravishing, the attention to detail painstaking and the performances are brilliant. But above all, it's a cracking story." Alex O'Connell, The Times

“Downton Abbey is what television should be.” Simon Heffer, The Telegraph

“Downton Abbey’s final episode brought the biggest audience for an episode of a new drama on any channel since 2003,” Patrick Foster, The Times

“Sundays won't be the same without Downton: In an age of patronising, tacky television, Downton Abbey was a true British gem. For seven weeks, Julian Fellowes’s terrific series has achieved a grip on many imaginations stronger than any social drama since Upstairs, Downstairs almost 40 years ago.” Max Hastings, Daily Mail

‘This is a well researched, entertaining and handsomely illustrated book.’ Sunday Express

‘Fans of the brilliant period drama will love the exclusive photographs, and interviews with cast members in this appropriately lavish official ‘making of’ book.’ Woman’s Own

About the author

Jessica Fellowes is an established writer and editor. She has worked as a gossip columnist, celebrity interviewer and lifestyle features editor for the Mail on Sunday. For four years she was Deputy Editor of Country Life. Her previous books are 'Mud & the City: dos and don'ts for townies in the country' and 'The Devil You Know: looking out for the psycho in your life.' She lives in London with her family.
www.jessicafellowes.com