If Downton is in northern England by York , why when they travel to London they say we're going up to London shouldn't it be down to London ?
If Downton is in northern England by York , why when they travel to London they say we're going up to London shouldn't it be down to London ?
There are several possible origins:
It is a rather alien concept to Americans since the US is not dominated by a single large city, the way England and many other European countries are. Thus, in America, up and down tend to simply align with directions on a compass. There are exceptions of course, as going to the mountains is generally up, and the shore is generally down. Philadelphian's are known for the phrase "Down the shore", although the cardinal direction is basically East.
At least that is the understanding of a Yank. :)
Here in northern England, the term "down to London" is used very frequently, probably more so than "up to London".
But the upper classes and wealthy business people are more inclined to say "up to London".