The mausoleum was built in 1807–08 for George Leveson-Gower, the 2nd Marquess of Stafford and later 1st Duke of Sutherland by architect Charles Heathcote Tatham.

[2] Heathcote Tatham was a friend of Elizabeth, the Duke's wife, and along with his commission he constructed several buildings, including a lodge and bridges, at the nearby Trentham Hall.

[3] The corners of the building feature striped Greaco-Egyptian pylon-like structures, which may have been influenced by Heathcote Tatum's time in Paris, where the style was particularly popular in the late 18th century.

[4] The entrance doorway is relatively small with doors decorated in highly ornate wrought-iron work and a heavy stone lintel.

[2] The condition of the building has given cause for concern, and although some urgent repairs have been completed, as of 2021[update] it is on the Heritage at Risk Register.