Downton Abbey -- the manor -- is used to hosting visitors, but the set had one of its highest-profile guests this week when Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, stopped by Ealing Studios in London for a tour and meet and greet.
While on set, an eight-months-pregnant Kate Middleton visited the show's iconic sets, including the kitchen and living quarters, and chatted with cast members Michelle Dockery (Mary), Lesley Nicol (Mrs. Patmore) and Sophie McShera (Daisy), among others.
Ooooo, we've got an exciting day ahead on the Downton set, a very special visitor is popping in..... X— Joanne Froggatt (@JoFroggatt) March 12, 2015
.@DowntonAbbey attracts an audience of around 120 million worldwide. HRH toured the studio home @ealingstudios today pic.twitter.com/SKlvadhZbd— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 12, 2015
She also met Downton's own little George (the son of Mary and Matthew), who gave the royal a train for her son (cutest thing ever).
George hands The Duchess a wooden train for Prince George #DuchessAtDownton @EalingStudios pic.twitter.com/vRHwhkSIkK— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 12, 2015
According to ITV, which airs Downton Abbey in the UK, the duchess is a fan of the show, and was on set to celebrate Britain's creative industries.
Mrs Patmore @lesley_nicol and Daisy baked a delicious chocolate cake to commemorate today's visit to @DowntonAbbey pic.twitter.com/HyhGHb8iia— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 12, 2015
The British period drama wrapped up Season 5 in the United States earlier this month, and is currently in production on Season 6.
Designers, seamstresses and cutters work hard to create intricate costumes for the cast @DowntonAbbey pic.twitter.com/IzIcjKpJ85— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 12, 2015
#Duchess of Cambridge being shown round the costume department by designer for #DowntonAbbey Anna Robbins @LBC pic.twitter.com/sFxCvKLfJO— Lorraine Horgan (@RainHorgan) March 12, 2015
Noticeably absent from the meet and greet was Dame Maggie Smith, who British press reported fell ill, and had to pull out of the event.
This comes just weeks after rumors began to circulate about Smith's departure following Season 6. However, Downton Abbey's publicity film later told the Associated Press that her comments had been misconstrued.
The show has not yet been renewed for Season 7, and Season 6 does not yet have an official air date.