He was a Conservative Member of Parliament and also served as Lord Lieutenant of Surrey.

As of 2013[update], the title is held by his kinsman, the fifth Baron, who succeeded his first cousin, once removed in 2013.

Rosalind Shand, daughter of the third Baron, was the mother of Queen Camilla.

Bodiam Castle in East Sussex was purchased by the first Baron in 1874 held until his trustees sold in 1916.

The 4th Baron Ashcombe resided at Sudeley Castle, Gloucestershire, which is still held by his widow.