It was created on 28 June 1911 for the industrialist and Liberal politician Thomas Ashton.

He had earlier represented Hyde and Luton in the House of Commons.

[1] Since 2008, the title has been held by his great-grandson, the fourth Baron,[3] who won a by-election to the House of Lords in July 2011 taking the Earl of Onslow's room.

Ashton was appointed Chief Whip and Captain of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen-at-Arms in July 2019.

The heir presumptive is the present holder's brother, the Hon.