The History of Hinwick House

Hinwick House has more than three centuries of history behind it. The Orlebar family acquired the Manor of Brayes in Podington in around 1620, but it was Richard Orlebar who decided to create the grand country house that stands at Hinwick today.

Construction began in 1708 and the house was completed in 1714 for Richard Orlebar and his wife Diana Astry. Built in the Queen Anne style, the house features finely coursed limestone, classical detailing and a beautifully proportioned façade. The estate itself says the design was modelled on the original Buckingham Palace.

Diana's influence can still be seen on the building today. One of the most distinctive features is the Diana Frieze carved into the exterior façade, depicting the goddess Diana riding her chariot. It was commissioned by Richard Orlebar in honour of his wife.

The estate continued to develop through the nineteenth century. Around 1860 a substantial Victorian domestic wing was added to the north side of the house, designed by architect F C Penrose to provide the additional accommodation and services required by the household.

The Orlebar family remained closely connected to Hinwick House for generations. Historic England records that the house remained in Orlebar ownership until it was sold in 1995.

More recently, Hinwick House underwent an extensive two-year programme of sympathetic restoration. More than 120 skilled craftspeople and artisans were involved in restoring the estate, allowing many of its historic architectural details to be enjoyed once again.

For a wedding photographer, all of this history creates something you simply cannot manufacture. The limestone façade, sweeping grounds, old trees, Great Hall, Clock Tower and gardens give every part of the day a strong sense of place, while the scale of the estate means there is always another backdrop to discover.

Did You Know?

• Hinwick House was built for Richard Orlebar between 1708 and 1714.
• The house is Grade I listed.
• The estate says Hinwick House was modelled on the original Buckingham Palace.
• The Diana Frieze on the façade was created in honour of Richard Orlebar's wife, Diana Astry.
• A Victorian Wing was added around 1860 by architect F C Penrose.
• The estate includes two ornamental lakes and an historic walled garden.
• The grounds include an ancient dovecote and a distinctive Clock Tower.
• The Great Hall contains a collection of historic stag head trophies.
• A recent restoration programme involved more than 120 skilled artisans and craftspeople.
• The venue deliberately limits the number of weddings hosted each year.