It originally occupied buildings within the churchyard, but moved to new premises in Tilbrook Road in the late 19th century.

The school's Latin motto is: "Spes Durat Avorum" (Let the hope of our forefathers endure).

Charles Edward Montagu, the 4th Earl, who was created 1st Duke of Manchester in 1719, had reconstruction works carried out between 1690 and 1720.

Gilded furnishings in a Louis XIV-inspired style by French upholsterers working in London were also commissioned.

For a later Duke, Robert Adam produced plans for the Castle Gatehouse and other garden buildings, including an orangery.

Mews buildings were added to provide stables, and an avenue of giant sequoias was planted in the 19th century.