Biltmore plans 'Downton Abbey' exhibit

The exhibit will feature more than 40 costumes from the popular PBS series in groupings throughout the Biltmore. The costumes, some inspired by old photographs, were created by renowned London costume house Cosprop Ltd. Some outfits are original pieces from the time period. 

The exhibit will allow the house to delve further into its own history. New stories will be shared about George Vanderbilt, his wife Edith, and their daughter Cornelia, who lived in the 250-room Biltmore House.

The Vanderbilts’ home bears striking visual resemblance Highclere Castle, where the show is set, Biltmore’s Director of Museum Services Ellen Rickman said.

"The day-to-day running of the house was surprisingly similar to that of Downton Abbey,” Rickman said. “Just like Downton has Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes, Biltmore had its own cast of fascinating characters. Displaying these fabulous costumes from the show gives us an unparalleled opportunity to delve into Biltmore’s stories.”

The exhibition is included in the regular ticket price for Biltmore Estate admission.