The reason is the dearth of workers from the European Union, which has forced owner Fiona Carnarvon to mothball the castle's main business of hosting larger weddings on the site of the Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning show.

We have taken the decision to pause the majority of the wedding business at Highclere Castle – we’ve had to, writes Lady Fiona Carnarvon.

Venues, florists, caterers and cake makers said clients are having to manage their expectations.

"We have stopped being able to offer any weddings of any substantial size because of Brexit," Carnarvon said. "There are no staff."