Lady Fiona Carnarvon

A former auditor for Coopers & Lybrand, Lady Fiona Carnarvon is the wife of George Herbert, 8th Earl of Carnarvon. Today, she manages affairs at Highclere Castle, the grand country house that worldwide television audiences recognize as Downton Abbey. Fascinated by Highclere’s rich history, Lady Carnarvon has written several books. The first two are about the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, who discovered King Tutankhamen’s tomb with Howard Carter in 1922; her New York Times best seller, Lady Almina and the Real Downton Abbey: The Lost Legacy of Highclere, is an amazing tale covering the same period as the first two series of Downton Abbey, beginning in 1894. Lady Carnarvon published a sequel about life at Highclere Castle during the 1920s and World War II. In conjunction with Lord and Lady Carnarvon, Viking has created an Oxford & Highclere Castle land extension featuring a Privileged Access tour of the castle and its grounds. The Countess of Carnarvon is a near and dear Viking friend, she is the godmother of a Viking Longship: Viking Skadi and the Viking ocean ship: Viking Mars.

Lord Carnarvon

The 8th Earl of Carnarvon is the son of Henry Herbert, 7th Earl of Carnarvon, and Jeanie Margaret Wallop (1935–2019). His mother was born in Big Horn, Wyoming, to Oliver Wallop, who was the brother of the 8th Earl of Portsmouth. The 8th Earl of Carnarvon was educated at Eton College and St. John’s College, Oxford.

He succeeded to the title of Earl of Carnarvon when his father passed away on September 11, 2001. He lives in Highclere Castle with the 8th Countess of Carnarvon, and they run the estate and business together. He is a keen horseman and sits on the board of the HHA (Historic Houses Association). He also takes a considerable interest in conservation and farming and has been an investor in start-up technology businesses.

Luis Coelho

Luis Coelho is the head butler at Highclere Castle, the real-life setting for Downton Abbey and the family home of the 8th Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. Known affectionately as “Luis the Butler,” he is a beloved member of the Highclere household team, renowned for his charm, impeccable service and engaging personality. 

Often compared to Carson from Downton Abbey, Luis brings a warm, personal touch to the grandeur of Highclere. In addition to his traditional butler duties, he is a talented mixologist, hosting gin tastings and cocktail-making demonstrations featuring Highclere Castle Gin. His hospitality skills are showcased during public open days, at private events and in special features for media and tourism partners.