Chargers Paddock History

The origins of the Chargers Paddock area date back to Napoleonic times when the 5th Baronet at Harleyford, Sir William, fought with the Duke of Wellington in the Peninsula War and at Waterloo in 1815.

As a cavalry officer, Sir William had a number of specifically trained war horses know as “Chargers” and when not in battle, these were given free reign of a riverside area to the east of the Manor House which later became known as Chargers Paddock.

Sir William’s favourite Charger, Skirmisher, was fatally wounded whilst serving in France and a commemorative plaque in the Old Walled Garden tells the story.

c1750

Architect Sir Robert Taylor designs Harleyford Manor House and grounds.

c1815

5th Baronet, Sir William, with his trusty Charger “Skirmisher”.

c1954

The Folley family purchased Harleyford and restoration of the Estate began.

1995

The first phase of timber country lodges was constructed.

2007

The area is prepared in readiness for the first Chargers Paddock Lodges.

» Find out more about The Lodges