Houghton Hall

Houghton Hall & Gardens Norfolk

The Hall

One of the finest surviving examples of the Palladian architecture, Houghton Hall is a lasting showcase of the work of architects James Gibbs and Colen Campbell, complemented by the richly ornamented interiors of William Kent, and furnished to reflect Sir Robert Walpole's status.

Completely restored to its former glory, visitors can enjoy Houghton much as it was in Walpole's day. The Hall is currently the home of the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley, Walpole's descendent, and his family. 

Surrounded by traditional parkland to explore, Houghton has a spectacular herd of white fallow deer. 

Walled Garden

The Award-winning 5-acre Walled Garden includes a spectacular double-sided herbaceous border, a formal rose parterre, a Mediterranean garden, and a kitchen garden with arches and espaliers of apples and pears. There are also glasshouses, antique statues and fountains as well as contemporary sculptures by Jeppe Hein, Stephen Cox and Richard Long.

Houghton Outdoor Sculpture 

In recent years, the 18th century planting scheme of formal hedges and avenues has been restored on the West side of the house and there is now an impressive collection of contemporary sculpture by world renowned artists displayed in the gardens and grounds, many commissioned specially for Houghton. The first work to be commissioned, in 2000, was a "Skyspace" by American artist James Turrell. Since then, artworks by Richard Long, Anya Gallaccio, Stephen Cox, Jeppe Hein, Rachel Whiteread and Phillip King have been added. This year, in collaboration with the Henry Moore Foundation, Houghton presents HENRY MOORE AT HOUGHTON HALL: NATURE AND INSPIRATION – the first significant show of the artist’s work in East Anglia for many years.

The Soldier Museum 

The 6th Marquess of Cholmondeley started collecting model soldiers as a schoolboy in 1928. He was fascinated by the campaigns of the Napoleonic period, and had great knowledge of the various battle and parade formations, and of regimental uniforms. He served in the Royal Dragoons during the Second World War, and was awarded the Military Cross. He then transferred to the Grenadier Guards for a further three years after the war. The Model Solider Collection housed at Houghton is one of the largest personal collections in the world and totals some 20,000 models.

Also in the Stable block is a tack and harness room, a fully licensed café, gift shop and Norfolk-By-Design, a pop up exhibition featuring art and objects by artists and makers from across East Anglia. There is a picnic area, a children’s playpark and plenty of free parking. 

Group Bookings

Groups of 20+ are welcome and benefit from discounted ticket rates. Under 17 years FREE of charge. Students with ID card £10. Private Guided Tours subject to availability - please contact The Estate Office 01486 628569

More Information

For all other information regarding opening times and admission prices, special events and to book tickets online (10% discount) please visit our website.