Set in the heart of horse-racing countryside there are chances to catch a glimpse of a morning gallop on the skyline from the terrace.
The Lambourn Downs are part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and extend from the Ridgeway in the north to the River Kennet in the south. The high ground used for breeding sheep and the meandering river – hence the name of Lambourn is now a major horse racing centre. The Oxford Don and author J. R. R. Tolkien lived nearby and travelled to the downs with his family and friends. He was impressed by the downs with their sarsen stones, barrows and hill forts and painted pictures of Lambourn in 1912.
The United Kingdom’s last Cravat Maker was based in Lambourn until they closed in 2006 and Lambourn Racehorse Transport Ltd was founded in the village in 1930. It’s the largest horse transport business in Europe transporting many of the local racehorses.
Lambourn is home to many Derby and Grand National winners and is steeped in local history. The earliest evidence of man’s inhabitation of the area is at Waylands Smithy or the Seven Barrows. It’s also been suggested that even Alfred the Great was born in Lambourn.
The White Horse chalk figure just below the Ridgeway ancient path close to Lambourn is one of the most famous landmarks in the area.
Aside from the amazing history, Lambourn House a Georgian style large country house or Ridgeway House brimming with character can each offer you a wonderful rural break. Set within a peaceful location in the Lambourn Valley, you can do as much or as little as you wish.
Knowing the houses intimately, we can help make your particular event or celebration a great success.
