Our Story
ARDINGTON HISTORY
Built in 1720, Ardington House stands as one of Oxfordshire's most magnificent Georgian stately homes. Set within extensive manicured gardens and parkland, with its own private island and riverside setting, it offers an enchanting backdrop for weddings, celebrations, staycations, and corporate gatherings.
1719 - 1721
Built between 1719 and 1721, Ardington House was commissioned by Edward Clarke, who envisioned a Baroque masterpiece with perfect symmetry and abundant natural light.
Architecture
The architect and master mason Thomas Strong Jnr, whose family worked alongside Sir Christopher Wren on St Paul's Cathedral and with Sir John Vanbrugh on Blenheim Palace, designed this architectural gem. One of the house's most remarkable features is its rare imperial staircase—a masterful design that begins as twin flights before gracefully merging into a single suspended flight, inspired by Vanbrugh's creation at King's Weston.
1880's - Robert Vernon
In 1833, the house was acquired by Robert Vernon, who had amassed his fortune supplying horses to the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars. Vernon, now remembered for his prestigious art collection housed in the Tate and National Galleries, added the Staffordshire Vernon family crest to the house's pediment.
Cannonballs
Lord Wantage, one of the first Victoria Cross recipients for his bravery in the Crimean War and founder of the British Red Cross, took ownership in 1861. His legacy lives on in the Russian cannonballs from the 1854 Battle of Inkerman, still mounted beside the front door.
The Baring Family
Since 1939, Ardington House has been home to the Baring family, renowned for establishing Barings Bank in 1762 and their distinguished service in politics and colonial governance. Their family portraits, spanning three centuries, enhance the house's original features, particularly in the oak-panelled dining room.
Today, we are privileged to share this Georgian treasure with our guests, whose support enables us to maintain and preserve this remarkable piece of British history.