Ashridge House
Ashridge House Grotto
Client: Ashridge House Estate
Services:
Flintwork
Stonework
Lime Mortar
Sited in the grounds of Ashridge House, the ‘Souterrain’ (underground), completed in 1821, provides a tunnel entrance to the tomb of the Duke of Bridgewater’s favourite horse. The grotto part of the tunnel had all but collapsed, with the metal frame rusting over a couple of centuries. Ashridge Management, working with Historic England, Mathias to fully restore the collapsed grotto, at the Apse end of the tomb tunnel.
The project required rebuild and restoration of the grotto flint walls, including restoring the flint cladding on the restore roof frame. The project used only flint from the original build, with new lime mortar. The process followed the original method of applying hooks to hag stones (those with natural holes) to keep the stones in place within the roof space.
The process followed the original method of applying hooks to hag stones to keep in place within the roof space
Project Gallery
About Ashridge House
Ashridge House, a magnificent country house located in Hertfordshire, dates back to the 13th century, witnessing numerous transformations under the stewardship of different generations. One pivotal figure who left an indelible mark on Ashridge House was John Egerton, the first Earl of Bridgewater.
Bridgewater acquired the property in the early 17th century and embarked on an ambitious renovation and regeneration into the house that stands today. With his taste and appreciation for art and culture, Egerton borrowed on influences from Tudor England and Rennaissance architecture, pariticularly expressed through its impressive stone facade.
Egerton went on to commission renowned artists for various ornamental works throughout the estate – from extensive ceiling paintings to finely crafted furnishings – further enhancing Ashridge House’s reputation as a center of artistic excellence during its time.
The Grotto, which dates back to the 18th century, followed the trend for romantic grottos favoured by the British aristocracy. The grotto served as a whimsical retreat for Lord Bridgewater, who commissioned its construction in 1767. Inspired by ancient Roman ruins and Italianate design, it took several years to meticulously carve out this underground folly from solid chalk rock. The interior walls are adorned with shells, minerals, fossils, and intricate mosaics depicting mythical creatures and pastoral scenes—offering a display of craftsmanship that transports visitors into a world of fantasy and imagination. Over time, nature has carved its signature on this hidden sanctuary; ferns poke through crevices while moss-covered stalactites drip water droplets creating an otherworldly atmosphere.