The eight new episodes will air on ITV1 in autumn 2013, followed by an extended special episode for Christmas 2013. Episode 1 and Episode 8 will also be feature length.

Filming will begin at Highclere Castle and Ealing Studios next February.

Executive producer Gareth Neame promises “the arrival of some new faces”, commenting: “Viewers can look forward to more drama, comedy, love, hatred, jealousy, rivalry, ambition, despair and romance.”

Laura Mackie, Director of Drama at ITV, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome back a drama series that has become a much anticipated part of all our lives every autumn and achieved success around the globe. Creator, writer and executive producer Julian Fellowes and the production team, led by Gareth and the producer Liz Trubridge, never rest on their laurels and have exciting plans for the fourth series.”

This year’s two-hour Christmas special will air at 9pm on Tuesday 25 December on ITV1.

Are you looking forward to Series 4? Let us know below…

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Watch the Series 3 trailer…