[citation needed] From the early 17th century, Hoar Cross had been the first seat of the Ingram family whose principal residence was Temple Newsam, Leeds, West Riding of Yorkshire.

Little changed at Hoar Cross until 1863, when Meynell Ingram set about a plan for a new hall to celebrate his marriage to Lady Charlotte Wood.

The Meynells were moving in "august circles" and Hugo appointed the architect Henry Clutton to oversee construction of a building to match their status.

The 114 ft Long Gallery runs along the north side of the house, and was typical in Tudor homes, as a place where the family, particularly during bad weather, could walk, play music, or sit and talk.

The private chapel at the east end of the Long Gallery was built in memory of Meynell's son, by his widow, Charlotte Wood.

She remained in occupation of the hall until her death in 1904 when her nephew Frederick George Lindley Wood (later Meynell) inherited the estate.