The untold story of 'Downton Abbey's iconic kitchen
What's the story
Downton Abbey is a favorite series that provides a sneak peek into the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their staff. The kitchen, a key hub of activity, is a vital part of the show. It is where meals are prepared and much of the downstairs drama occurs. Here are some surprising facts about this iconic kitchen that fans might not know.
#1
Authentic period details
The kitchen set was painstakingly designed to reflect the early 20th-century period accurately. From copper pots to cast iron stoves, every detail was picked to ensure historical accuracy. The production team picked authentic items from antique shops and auctions to create an environment that felt real to both actors and viewers alike.
#2
Realistic cooking scenes
Unlike many television shows where food is just a prop, Downton Abbey frequently included real cooking in its scenes. The actors were trained by professional chefs to deal with ingredients realistically. This commitment brought realism to the show, making viewers feel as though they were witnessing life in an Edwardian-era kitchen for themselves.
#3
Hierarchical structure reflected
Additionally, the kitchen scenes also shed light on the rigid hierarchy in household staff back in the day. The head cook had a lot of authority over other staff members, such as kitchen maids and footmen. This was crucial to ensure that everything ran smoothly in the large households of Downton Abbey, where many meals had to be prepared on a daily basis.
#4
Filming location secrets
While Highclere Castle was the main location for Downton Abbey, most of the interior shots of the kitchen were filmed on a separate set at Ealing Studios in London. This gave greater control over lighting and space, while keeping it consistent with other parts of Highclere Castle seen on screen.