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Ashdown House is an unusual Dutch style house dating from around 1665 and built for the 1st Earl of Craven, one of the richest men of the 17th century. The architect of Ashdown House is unknown, but is thought to be William Wilde, who in is early life was exiled to Holland, where the architecture had an obvious influence on him.

The house is often likened to a dolls house, with its perfect symmetry, window architraves, quoins, and a hip roof surmounted by a balustrade and cupola. Ashdown is square in floorplan, and each elevation is almost identical. Two detached pavillions, built 20 years after the house, reinforce its symmetry.

The hall, an impressive monumental staircase and the roof are accessible to the public. There are a number of portraits to be seen in the hall and fine views from the roof.

Adjacent to Ashdown House are Ashdown Woods, and nearby are Weathercock Hill and Alfred's Castle - and Iron Age hill fort.

Attractions near Ashdown House include Swindon, Broome Manor Golf Complex at Swindon, Cine World near Swindon, Wrag Barn Golf & Country Club at Swindon, Brunel Centre near Swindon, Youll's Antiques at Hungerford, The Steam Museum near Swindon.