Arthur Gibbes started to build Wickenden Manor in 1916 and finished in 1920.  He lived there with his wife Hilda Messel until their death in 1941. They had two sons, Nigel and Anthony who in 1945 sold the house to Lord Astor.

Gavin Astor, the grandson of William Randolph Astor, bought Wickenden Manor in 1945 and redesigned the gardens. In 1962 Gavin Astor inherited Hever Castle, moved there, and left Wickenden Manor.

In 1964 Wickenden Manor was acquired by Netherhall Educational Association (NEA). Minor alterations were made before it started to function as a Conference Centre. Other works were carried out in the early 1990s but otherwise no significant works have been undertaken since it was built.