Downton Abbey to open its doors on Airbnb

Only two people who are 'passionate' about show will be invited to stay

Two fans of Downton Abbey will have the opportunity to stay at the magnificent stately home where the television show and feature-length film was shot.

Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England, was the main filming location for Downton Abbey when the popular ITV period series aired from 2010 to 2015.

To celebrate the release of the television show's spin-off film, a pair of people will be able to stay at the estate with Airbnb for one night on Tuesday 26 November.

The Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, who own the property, will invite the two guests to join them for cocktails in the saloon, before having dinner in the state dining room, where they will be served by Highclere Castle's butler.

The experience will cost £150.

Highclere Castle (PA/Airbnb)

"It's an absolute privilege and pleasure to call Highclere Castle my home and I am delighted to be able to share it on Airbnb for a truly unique stay," said Lady Carnarvon.

"Highclere Castle has been in the Carnarvon family since 1679 and has an incredibly rich history."

Hadi Moussa, the general manager for Airbnb in northern Europe, said the company is "thrilled to be able to offer fans the ultimate Downton Abbey experience through this once-in-a-lifetime-stay at Highclere Castle".

Moussa added that he is "certain that guests will have a magical experience while staying on the iconic location of Downton Abbey".

Highclere Castle (PA/Airbnb)

The details of the property listing will be available to view on the Airbnb website from Tuesday 17 September.

Prospective guests will be able to submit their applications from noon on Tuesday 1 October.

Those who apply must already have an Airbnb account and have been reviewed positively on previous occasions.

Airbnb adds that applicants will need to prove that they are "passionate about Downton Abbey" by explaining their fondness for the television show in a personalised message.

The earl and countess will then select the applicants they believe most deserve to stay at Highclere Castle.

To read The Independent's review of the Downton Abbey film, click here.

To see all the best-dressed stars who graced the red carpet at the Downton Abbey film premiere, click here.