Local fans of the hit British-American TV drama, Downton Abbey, were treated to quite a surprise when the cast and crew showed up at the East Sussex seaside in the U.K.

The Downton actors filmed scenes for its upcoming fourth season, which isn't slated to kick off until early 2014.

Despite the less than desireable heat on location, Rose, Branson and what looks like Edith could be seen in a picture decked out in their usual 1920's attire.

While the individual who snapped the photo was clearly not near the trio, another lucky beachgoer got to take a picture of their own with Brendan Coyle (John Bates).

Speaking of the beach, photos of new character Jack Ross (Gary Car) in a canoe with Lily James (Lady Rose) had recently surfaced.

Downton creator Julian Fellowes stated that he was looking to diversify the show and "open it up ethnically a bit," according to Daily Mail.

Carr is mostly known for his work as police officer Fidel Best in BBC's Death in Paradise, and will join Nigel Harman and opera singer Dame Kiri Te Kanawa as newbie's on the TV series.

Be sure to keep checking back for more of the latest details on the British-American period piece. For more Downton dirt related to the upcoming season, a video clip can be viewed below.

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Downton abbey, PBS, ITV, Television