The Stables
The Stables is a 200 year old Grade II* Listed stable block that was formally part of the Harlestone House Estate, of which is said to be the inspiration for Jane Austen’s novel Mansfield Park. They were built in a traditional Georgian style to emphasise the grandeur of the main house and survived the demolition of the stately home in 1940. Now standing as a private residence the owner has opened its doors to become Northamptonshire's most exclusive wedding venue.
The Surroundings
The Stables is set in its own private and secluded gardens which will be completely yours for the day.
Lower Harlestone is a quaint hamlet set in picturesque countryside and our venue is tucked away inside it. Surrounding us are many open fields and a secluded stunning lake which provides an amazing spot for photo opportunities.
Behind the house sits St Andrews Church which dates back to the fourteenth century. The Church itself has been well looked after and provides a wonderful wedding service which can be organised directly with the Church.
The History
The Stables was built in 1798 to accompany and serve Harlestone House. The block was used primarily to keep the horses and coaches for the main house and visiting guests.
One of the more notable guests to the estate was Jane Austen the author, who it is known, was a regular visitor at the house and stables. It is widely recognised that The Harlestone House estate was the basis and inspiration for her most famous novel, Mansfield Park.
During the Second World War the Harlestone House estate, including The Stables, was requisitioned by the British Army and used to billet American and Canadian soldiers.
After the War ended Harlestone house stood in a very poor state of repaire and as many country homes in England at that time, was demolished because of the vast expense of restoring them.
Luckily the stable block was saved and was fully restored by the present owner in 1996. Today it stands as a private home and as the last remaining piece of the historic Harlestone House estate.
Harlestone House and The Stables were formally part of the Althop Estate. Althorp House is internationally known as the home of Princess Diana and was visited by Prince Charles and their sons Prince William and Prince Harry throughout their childhood.
