The Manor Studio, Recording studio in Shipton on Cherwell, Oxfordshire, England
The Manor Studio is a Grade II listed manor house in Shipton on Cherwell that served as a professional music recording facility with multiple studios and residential spaces. The complex contained a 16-track Ampex recorder, Dolby noise reduction systems, and echo equipment designed to support musicians during their recording sessions.
Richard Branson opened the studio in 1971, converting a former squash court into a professional music production facility for Virgin Records. Following EMI's acquisition of Virgin Records, the studio closed in 1995 and has since ceased operations as a recording facility.
Mike Oldfield recorded the influential album Tubular Bells at the Manor Studio between 1972 and 1973, marking a milestone in progressive rock music.
The location sits in a rural setting and was originally designed for overnight recording sessions, allowing musicians to focus entirely on their work. This isolation from city noise enabled extended, uninterrupted recording periods in a quiet environment.
EMI closed the Manor Studio in April 1995 following their acquisition of Virgin Records, and the property now serves as a residence for the Marquess of Headfort.
GPS coordinates: 51.84560,-1.30500
Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:27
Church of St Giles
495 m
Church of St Mary
2.5 km
Church of Holy Cross
66 m
Church of St Mary
2.1 km
The Blacks Head Public House
2.5 km
The Boat Public House
764 m
Canal Bridge Approximately 60 Metres West Of The Rock Of Gibraltar Public House
1.7 km
Bridge At Shipton Weir Lock, Oxford Canal
891 m
Thrupp Yard Cottages and attched outbuilding
753 m
Rock Of Gibraltar Public House
1.7 km
The Manor and attached outbuildings
11 m
Shipton Lift Bridge (219) Sp 4850 1675, Oxford Canal
562 m
Old Priest's House
2.5 km
Lower Whitehill Farmhouse
2.3 km
Ruins of Manor House
652 m
The Old Manor House
2.4 km
Glendale
2.4 km
Chest tomb approximately 1/2 metre west of Church of St Mary
2.5 km
Railway Bridge At Sp 4832 1529
1.3 km
Manor Farmhouse
912 m
Milestone On Banbury Road, Kidlington
2 km
Poyle Court
2.4 km
Model Farmhouse
2.5 km
Dovecote and granary approximately 15 metres east of Manor Farmhouse
677 m
Shipton-on-Cherwell churchyard cross
57 m
Manor Farmhouse
2.1 km
Outbuilding approximately 5 metres north west of Manor Farmhouse
2.1 km
Milestone, Banbury Road; by No.118 & 120
2 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes