Discover the world of Downton Abbey like never before, in this exhibition showing first at the Marina Bay Sands Singapore.
The Downton Abbey series ended some time ago, I’m sure everyone is surprised that there is a major exhibition about it, especially one that is premiering in Singapore. Not that I’m complaining.
The exhibition setup is massive and grand, reminding me of the Lord of the Rings exhibition in Singapore ages ago. Not only is this exhibition full of things to see, the way it is presented was also very impressive – the whole experience is framed as ‘a day at Downton’, with highly-produced multimedia.
So here it is, the world’s first trip report and photo tour of the exhibition.
Have an overview of the details before I lose you in the photos…
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition – Highlights
- 17 June – 31 July 2017
- See the props and costumes from Downton Abbey up close
- Walk through iconic scenes from the series, such as the Servant’s Hall, Mrs Patmore’s Kitchen, Lady Mary’s Bedroom, and the Grand Dining Room
- Learn about real-world events that have shaped the world
- Experience a High Tea inspired by the series (separate charges apply)
Ticket Pricing
Mondays to Thursdays
Adult: $30
Child: $15
Senior Citizen: $28
Fridays to Sundays (aka the ‘What is a Weekend?’ rate)
Adult: $35
Child: $17
Senior Citizen: $33
Mobile Guide add-on
With an $8 supplement, you can rent a mobile guide for this exhibition.
“What is a weekend?”
And now, presenting the grand photo tour of this great house, Downton Abbey.
You are recommended to tune into this Spotify playlist as you peruse the photos. At the exhibition, the soundtrack from the series is played everywhere.
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition
After an introduction by Julian Fellowes and Mr Carson (Butler at the House), the path opens into the exhibition proper, into a vast gallery where character stories and artifacts can be explored.
From correspondences to posters and even bank notes, there is an incredible level of detail in the props used in the series – even though they are probably seen on screen for seconds.
Lady’s maid sewing kit.
The ‘mysterious’ package that Lady Mary had Anna secretly buy.
Matthew’s letter to Mary (which was later recognised as a Will), and the “Such Good Luck” charm:
There is of course, a special corner for perhaps the most iconic character, the Dowager Countess:
Her quotable quotes can be found everywhere at the exhibition.
Is that a Fabergé Egg?
After walking through the Character Gallery (including poor Edith’s section, at a forgotten dark corner), you can visit Downstairs, and walk through the Servant’s Hall, Mrs Patmore’s Kitchen, and Mr Carson’s Pantry.
This is where the scheming happens.
The iconic bell board.
The corridor where most of the frenzy happens – and the staircase leading upstairs.
Oh look, it’s the kitchen. Where’s Mrs Patmore?
“Anyone who has the use of their limbs can make a salmon mousse!”
“What the eye can’t see the heart won’t grieve over.”
The next gallery showcases the uniforms of the servants at Downton Abbey.
Here, you can try a recruitment quiz to assess your suitability for a job at Downton Abbey. And that concludes the tour ‘downstairs’.
After a dazzling multimedia presentation in the next gallery, the exhibition leads to Lady Mary’s Bedroom.
Sybil: “…”
Lady Mary’s Bedroom, where much of the drama in the show starts.
A portrait of her Dear Matthew.
After admiring her bedroom, continue to the Fashion showcase – where wedding, hunting, ceremonial and party outfits are at large.
Sybil’s famous harem pants.
Next stop: The Dining Room.
Do you know which spoon to use?
The last gallery hastily features some of the technologies that have influenced the lives of the people living in that era.
A lavish outfit of Martha Levinson (Cora’s mother), a rich American who couldn’t care less about the old-fashioned way of living.
“My world is coming nearer. And your world – it’s slipping further and further away!”
And then it’s time to say goodbyes in the (virtual) Great Hall.
But not before exploring the souvenir shop!
Get your ‘What Is A Weekend?’ fix here, along with many Mrs Patmore’s Kitchen OFFICIAL merchandise.
Or some fine china cups to prove that you have visited Downton Abbey.
If that’s not enough, you can end your adventure with an English Afternoon Tea experience.
Available from 1pm, this high tea package is priced at S$55++. Glass of champagne for S$25++
You won’t be able to have your tea inside Downton Abbey, but this elegant salon will do.
And lastly, the staff has lined up to bid us farewell…
But who are these people?
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition
17 June – 31 July 2017
(Note: Exhibition is closed on 21 June for a private event)
Marina Bay Sands Expo, Basement 2, Hall F
Buy your tickets online at Marina Bay Sands website.
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Thank you for sharing the photos! Do you know if the gift shop sells DVDs for the series? Thanks!
Unfortunately not, at least for the opening weekend. Probably because the exhibition is touring the world and DVDs would be a challenge given possible licensing concerns.
This may be a lame question, but what’s the benefit of getting the ticket with “mobile guide”?
Thanks!!
Hi Samantha,
The mobile guide is said to include “exclusive behind the scenes footage” featuring the cast and crew of Downton Abbey. As it is in the form of a digital tablet, it should probably offer some convenience for viewing the exhibit write-ups.
Am i allowed to take pictures?
This type of exhibit usually nvr allowed
Photography without flash is allowed at this exhibition.
Do you know if this exhibition was a sell-out success? I was away from Singapore when it was on. How popular was it do you think? Thanks