Rick Steves: Minding your manors in England

To maintain these lavish mansions and grounds, which have been crippled by taxes on both income and inheritances, many have opened their doors to visitors (some are managed by the National Trust, while others remain private).

Because of the show’s popularity, Highclere tickets can be hard to come by.

For a similarly grand experience, visit Blenheim Palace, 30 minutes from Oxford — my pick for the No. 1 stately home in Britain.

The light was warm, the vibe was mellow, and I was able to really appreciate the fine interior, from the sumptuous state rooms used to impress visiting dignitaries to the private apartment, which provides an excellent behind-the-scenes peek at the palace.

[...] the place is undeniably impressive, including a wonderful library with rich mahogany woodwork and 10,000 musty leather-bound books on two levels, along with delightful themed gardens — especially the Collector Earl’s Garden, which contains an intriguing stumpery (upturned oak trees).

When I think about British aristocracy, I think of people like him — eccentrics with a noble commitment to English high culture and all sorts of interesting stuff in their back closet.

Wade was a recluse and a collector of anything and everything: bicycles, kitchen equipment, finely carved spinning wheels, samurai armor, even elaborate figurines carved by prisoners from the bones of meat served at dinner.

Rick Steves writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio.