Knowles & Son was founded in 1797 by Thomas Knowles, who took over the business of John Townsend in Oxford. In the 18th century the company had become a leader in local industry, working on such prestigious buildings as Blenheim Palace and the Radcliffe Camera. Twenty-one Oxford colleges were listed in the firm's ledger of 1797.

Today, Knowles & Son is still working for many of Oxford's colleges and recently completed refurbishment and restoration works at Whaddon Manor, Dorchester Abbey and Dinton Hall. The company has an extensive portfolio of work on historic buildings, houses and churches, together with an enviable reputation for quality and reliability.