It is reputed to have been the inspiration for E. H. Shepard's illustrations of Toad Hall in the book The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame, although this is also claimed by Mapledurham House, Fowey Hall Hotel,[1] Foxwarren Park[2] and Fawley Court.

[3] King Charles I of England visited the house while he was a prisoner on escort from Oxford.

[9] The stables,[10] and garden wall[11] and gate pier have their own Grade II listings.

[12] To Nature in my earliest youth, I vowed my constancy and truth; Wherein lie Hardwick's much loved shade, Enamoured of her charms I strayed, And as I roved the woods among, Her praise in lisping numbers sung.

A little above Mapledurham lock you pass Hardwick House, where Charles I played bowls.