Page 38 - Oundle Life April 2025

The Rothschild family bought the estate
in 1860, but Ashton as we know it today was
commissioned in 1900 by Lord Rothschild
and designed by architect William Huckvale.
Here, Huckvale created the largest of
only three model villages built in 20th
century England. Cherrytree Cottage
is one of these estate buildings, placing
it in an area of both natural beauty
and historical significance. From the
luxurious Ashton Wold House to the
characterful cottages, the high quality
of workmanship and design was
consistent throughout and has stood
the test of time.
The development of Ashton Estate was
encouraged by Charles Rothschild, who fell
in love with the area’s woodlands and wanted
to make this village his home. It’s easy to
see why – for wildlife buffs, Ashton and its
surrounding areas offer the opportunity to spot
rare and endangered species of butterflies, deer,
newts, and more. Charles, however, was most
interested in the study of fleas, a passion that
an escape
into the rich
history and
peaceful
countryside
of Ashton
he passed on to his daughter Dame Miriam
Rothschild, who went on to become one of the
world’s leading experts on the subject.
Thanks to Charles and Dame Miriam’s
passion for natural and historical
conservation, Ashton Estate remains
mostly unchanged to this day, giving
locals a glimpse into the past with
all the amenities of the present. This
is precisely what the future owners
of this home can expect from life at
Cherrytree Cottage – an escape into the
rich history and peaceful countryside of
Ashton. With its neighbourly location,
original features, and nature on its doorstep, this
house is the embodiment of what village life is
all about.
Words by Holly Simmonds
Cherrytree Cottage is currently on the market
with Woodford & Co – 01832 274732
www.woodfordandco.com
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