George Ridding was born at Winchester College, of which his father, the Rev.

[2] He was appointed second master of Winchester College in 1863, and on the retirement of his father-in-law, George Moberly, he succeeded to the headmastership.

During the tenure of this office (1867–1884) he carried out successfully a series of radical reforms in the organisation of the school, resulting in a great increase both in its reputation and numbers.

In 1884, he became the first Bishop of Southwell, and brought his powers of organisation and conspicuous tact and moderation to bear on the management of the new diocese.

He took an active share in its educational and social work, and was materially assisted in these respects by his second wife, Lady Laura Palmer, daughter of the 1st Earl of Selborne.