A little history of Bestwood Lodge Set within the beautiful woodland of Bestwood Country Park, Bestwood Lodge has a history stretching back centuries. The area was once part of the royal hunting grounds of Sherwood Forest, with records of a royal hunting lodge dating back to the 13th century. The estate later became associated with Charles II and Nell Gwyn, before passing to their son, Charles Beauclerk, the first Duke of St Albans. For generations, Bestwood remained in the hands of the Beauclerk family. The magnificent building we see today was commissioned by the 10th Duke of St Albans and built between 1862 and 1865 by architect S. S. Teulon, in an elaborate Gothic Revival style. It became a grand Victorian country house, welcoming notable visitors and surrounded by the extensive Bestwood estate. After serving different purposes through the 20th century, including as a headquarters for the military during the Second World War, Bestwood Lodge eventually became the hotel it is today. With its Gothic architecture, woodland setting and centuries of stories behind its walls, Bestwood Lodge makes a wonderfully atmospheric setting for a wedding — a place where modern celebrations become part of a much longer history.