Most people know royal residences like Buckingham Palace and Balmoral, but have you heard of Ashridge House? Once home to King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I, and Edwards VI, the Grade I listed property is a treasure trove of preserved historic interiors. We love taking inspiration from storied royal properties, and this one just might be our favorite yet.
Its rich, textured history is the fabric of the building. According to Nigel Bradshaw, Resident Historian at Ashridge House, the royal residence was built as a monastic community in the 13th century and transitioned into crown ownership after the Dissolution of the Monasteries under King Henry VIII in the 1530s. The infamous king changed the manor into a hunting lodge and nursery for his children, including Elizabeth I, Mary I, and Edward VI. Elizabeth inherited Ashridge House after Henry's death and was arrested on suspicion of treason while residing there. Young Princess Victoria (later Queen Victoria) visited in 1823 and planted an oak tree in the royal gardens, which still stands to this day. Located just outside of London, the historic home currently serves as an event space and wedding venue.
