Historic Hotel
Habitation around the area goes as far back as 2,000 years. The property was initially owned by The Shirleys, one of Warwickshire's oldest families that can be traced back over a thousand years. Throughout the years, the old manor house was demolished and replaced by smaller houses from salvaged materials. In 1935, the mansion became a nursing home and a prisoner's camp during World War II, and in 1983 restoration work began in order to be turned into a luxury hotel.
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Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' categoryEttington Park Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon is a must-visit if historical significance and stunning surroundings are what you seek. This quirky property is packed with history and intrigue. It's a beautiful castle, architecturally eye-catching and set in historic surroundings. The elegance of this lovely building is unmatched and it's a beautiful property with breathtaking views. The architecture is beautiful and the house and surroundings are stunning. You will be engulfed in the wonderful history of this interesting house. The location is stunning and the setting is gorgeous. It's not just a hotel but an experience to live in a legend. One reviewer even said "לגור באגדה" or "to live in a legend." Ettington Park Hotel is a historic gem that everyone who appreciates architecture, elegance and fascinating history must visit.
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Year erected: 1860
What is the history of the property?
The Shirleys, one of Warwickshire’s oldest families, owned Ettington for many years. Their lineage can be traced back over a thousand years. There is also archaeological evidence that there has been human habitation in the area for at least 2,000 years. It is very much possible that a Roman villa once existed on the site of the Ettington Park Hotel, which since that time has undergone many transitions.
What was the era and/or the architectural style in which the property was built?
Ettington Park is a spectacular neo-Gothic mansion situated six miles from Stratford-upon-Avon in the picturesque Stour Valley. The house in its new style was built in 1862 with the help of architect John Prichard.
Is the property surrounded by other historic buildings?
In the hotel grounds there is the Shirley family church built in the Norman style in the 12th Century. The chapel serves as the family mausoleum.
Has restoration work taken place?
Over the years there have been many restorations the latest major one was after the fire in 1979 where 20 rooms were built to the side making up the 48 bedrooms the hotel has to offer.
Are there any elements of particular historical importance at the building?
The Chapel has painted glass windows depicting the parable of the Publican and the Pharisee and The Library has stained glass windows and an ornate carved ceiling.
Are there any important guests or previous owners worth mentioning?
The house is still owned by the Shirley Family
Are there any significant events that took place at the property in the past?
In 1935 it became a nursing home and during the Second World War a prisoner of war camp for Italian prisoners. For a brief period Ettington Park was the venue for a night club and disco.
Would you describe your property as (or has it ever been in the past) a: Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
The Automobile Association has named Ettington Park as the Most Haunted Hotel in Britain. It has featured in a number of ghost, mystery and horror films. “The Haunting” was filmed there in 1963. It starred Julie Harris, Claire Bloom, Richard Johnson and Russ Tamblyn. The story was based on the novel “The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson.
