Dining Like Downton Abbey

Downton Abbey, the television series set almost 100 years ago, has become one of our most popular tv programs. Downton Abbey successfully blends exceptional writing and intriguing story lines within the news and issues of their day while showcasing Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) and beautiful period settings.

While I enjoy history, part of my personal fascination is the style and insight given concerning an aristocratic family such as the Crawley’s and how the British social hierarchy works. Plus seeing how things and opinions change over time.

Being in the dinnerware business, it is most impressive to see how proper the table settings are presented and when something is in error that reprimands are made. Currently I am working through season three and during a very short scene; I found the quizzing of the silverware utensils quite interesting. This lead me to wonder what dinnerware was used on Downton Abbey.

With so many details of the show being based on the early 1900’s, I figured that the china / dinnerware used on Downton Abbey would be from the time period. In my research, I have read many of the items are historically accurate. However, I noticed something when Cora Crawley (Elizabeth McGovern), The Countess of Grantham, was given some tea that the pattern looked very familiar.

Upon doing some research and gathering some photos, I learned it is possible for you to Dine like Downton Abbey.

As it turns out, the Crawley’s dine on Spode Stafford White Dinnerware!

According to a Daily Mail Article from September 2011:
“Every piece of china used in Downton features the family crest, which was designed by Charmian, who had transfers made and stuck by hand on to ordinary Spode crockery.”

By using the Spode Stafford White, Downton Abbey was able to keep costs down and be able to quickly replace any dishes that might get chipped or broken. According to the Daily Mail article, with period glasses running around $140 a pair and linens difficult to replace and clean it makes sense to use something that is affordable and easily available.

Now you too can Dine like Downton Abbey with Spode Stafford White, however it doesn’t come with the Crawley crest, but it is a very regal pattern indeed.

While the Spode Stafford White is the main pattern for the show, we have seen another Spode pattern at the Crawley House and that is Spode Blue Italian.

The blue and white English dinnerware pattern has been in continuous production since 1816, almost 200 years. Hence, it is logical this tried and true dinnerware pattern would be in Downton Abbey scenes. Dinnerware Depot offers Spode Blue Italian dinnerware.

The Spode patterns above are or have been on Downton Abbey, however we have noticed an increase in the term Downton Abbey like or style china. Two patterns that reflect this look are Lenox Autumn and  Lenox Vintage Jewel both patterns originated or are inspired by this time period.  Whether you choose the actual Downton Abbey china or one inspired by it, we hope you watch your manners and enjoy Dining Like Downton Abbey in your home.

Ref. Daily Mail article:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2038720/Downton-Abbey-How-dine-style--salt.html#ixzz2swCdgmu0

Enjoy and have a Splendid Day.
#downtonabbey #dinnerware #spodestaffordwhite #spodeblueitalian

Dr. Dinnerware