An Englishman’s Home is his Downton Abbey
How can we carry on now that Downton Abbey is off our screens until the autumn? I have found some solace in the Past Times sale, which is offering a range of official Downton Abbey soft furnishings. The mugs and cushions are emblazoned with the waspy and witty remarks of the Dowager Countess of Grantham, the star of the series. I bought four cushions (two smaller-sized and the other two large) and they are a big hit. Firm, full-bodied and with high quality needlework, they stand up to everyday use without any problems. Their design is also a delightful mix of retro and modern: while their style and stitching is very contemporary in feel and will no doubt look at home in a modern household, the mottoes they proclaim are the relics of a bygone era. It’s like having a bit of Downton Abbey in the sitting room all year round, but without the stress of having the Dowager Countess herself present in person.

"She is not entitled to opinions until she is married. Then her husband will tell her what her opinions are"