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Ashridge has a rich history which dates right back to 1283, when Edmund of Cornwall founded a monastery for the Bonhomme monks. The dissolution of the monasteries by King Henry VIII led to the transition of Ashridge from monastery to royal home. The passing of Henry's kin, Queen Elizabeth, meant the house transferred into the hands of her Lord Chancellor in 1604, Thomas Egerton. It remained a private house until the early 1920's. Since then, Ashridge has been a training centre for the government, a branch of the Charing Cross Hospital during the Second World War and a finishing school for young ladies. The business school which exists today was created in 1959.
The imposing neo-gothic building seen today was built to replace the original house in the early 1800's under the direction of the Egerton family (the Dukes of Bridgewater). Totternhoe limestone was used throughout to create a gleaming white façade and to provide the perfect medium for the intricate stone carvings. The gardens, based on designs by Humphry Repton in 1813, compliment the Grade I listed building perfectly. Repton designed 15 different styles of smaller, formal gardens to create greater intimacy and interest. Avenues of trees create panoramic views from the house, past formal gardens and into the parkland beyond.
2010: Gardens: Easter-end Sept, Sat, Sun & BHs. 2-6pm. House: 26 Jul-27 Aug, guided tours, weekday afternoons. Please ring for details prior to visit. The Christopher Tower Collection of portraits, pictures and miniatures will be on display alongside a private collection of Egerton family portraits.
Please contact the property for up to date opening times
Civil Ceremony and Wedding Reception
Nestled in 190 acres of gardens and parkland, this historic mansion provides a breathtaking setting, guaranteeing you a day to remember. Wedding exclusivity and a dedicated co-ordinator ensure a friendly and personal experience. Our award winning chefs can cater for a variety of dietary requirements. The inclusive rates allow the flexibility to tailor your wedding to suit your individual style and taste. We can accommodate up to 110 guests for a civil ceremony, and 180 for a wedding breakfast.
Contact - Conference & Events Department. Tel: 01442 841107, Fax: 01442 841010, E-mail: weddings@ashridge.org.uk or visit www.ashridgeweddings.org.uk
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