The Brief History of Stansted Park...
Stansted began as a hunting lodge in the 11th century, and has seen a succession of owners and many royal and distinguished visitors over the centuries. It was built on the present site in 1688 for Richard Lumley, probably to a design by William Talman.

This house, heavily altered and extended over the next two centuries by its various owners, was burnt down in 1900 and rebuilt, on the exact footprint of the previous building in 1903. It was purchased by the Bessborough family in 1924 and enjoyed by the families of the 9th and 10th Earls throughout their lifetimes. The history of Stansted Park since the 12th century is told in Lord Bessborough's book "The Enchanted Forest" available from the House.

Since 1983 the House and Estate have been owned by Stansted Park Foundation, a charitable trust charged with the preservation of the estate for the benefit of the nation, which was the wish of the last owner, Frederick, 10th Earl of Bessborough (left). The House and Grounds are now open for events, weddings, and corporate functions.