Old Warden Tourist Information

Old Warden's history can be traced back to Roman times. A Cistercian Abbey was situated near the Cardington Road and a small part still stands, identified by its Elizabethan chimney.

The 12th century St. Leonard's Church on its small hill dominates the village and is famous for its continental woodcarvings and interesting memorials to the Ongley and Shuttleworth families.

The Shuttleworth family rebuilt the mansion house in 1876. In the early 19th century, the third Lord Ongley recreated the village in Swiss - style which was the influence of the day. Old Warden Park is home to the unique 19th century ornamental Swiss Garden, proclaimed as one of the top ten gardens in the country. The Swiss Garden is open to the Public.

Also at Old Warden is the fascinating Shuttleworth Collection of aircraft, cars, motorcycles and carriages. The collection is housed and displayed in seven hangars in the traditional setting of a 1930's grass aerodrome.