Houghton Hall - © dennis smith
Houghton Hall is located on the Houghton estate in Norfolk, there are a number of attractions here for visitors to see and explore. The most famous attraction is the Hall, the manor house that is synonymous with its links with Sir Robert Walpole the first prime minister of the UK. The house has a range of impressive collections there are also the gardens to view along with the museum, stables and park. The country estate is situated in the Norfolk countryside and is set in a scenic backdrop.
Attractions
Houghton Hall has been subject to redesign and expansion over the years, Sir Robert Walpole inherited the estate aged just 24 back in 1700. At the time the estate and house were modest in size, however Sir Robert had ambitious plans that would lead to the expansion of the house turning it in to an impressive country residence.
The Great Staircase is where visitors are greeted and visitors are greeted by the Borghese Gladiator discovered in 1611 in bronze. On the walls there is canvas painted in grisaille by William Kent. The decoration and design is grand and imposing in keeping with a country house of this size.
The Saloon is a room that is viewed by visitors prior to seeing the Stone Hall, the decoration in the room is attributed to William Kent, the room is noted for the painted plasterwork, carvings and ornate decorations on display. The Stone Hall is noted for the plasterwork that is visible on the ceiling, there is still original furniture displayed here with six benches and a couple of side-tables.
The Stables were built in the 1730s and the external walls are identified by the local yellow Snettisham stone that was used. The interior of the stables was carefully thought out when being built and display a brick vault supported on timber pillars.
The Soldier Museum contains a number of collections of model soldiers from the 6th Marquess who had been a keen collector of model soldiers during his life. Lord Cholmondeley ordered a number of whole scenes to his own specification and the museum displays various examples of the scenes he created. Visitors can see reconstructions of the Battle of Waterloo, with the figures of Wellington and Napoleon visible. There are also a number of other scenes depicted over the years.
The Park has been developed over the years, it was first developed by Sir Robert who had ambitious plans for the park, with a watertower built in the 1730s, towards the end of the 10th century the tower was restored and the park also boasts wildlife such as fallow deer and pheasants.
The Gardens at Houghton are award winning having received prizes and recognition for their excellence. Over the years some of the gardens had fallen in to disrepair, it a determined restoration and replanting programme visitors can now see the fruits of the work carried out.
The herbaceous borders are divided up in the middle by a yew roundel planted with rugosa roses, catmint and bulbs. The north borders are wider and contain hot colours namely reds and oranges, in contrast the south borders have the opposite with cool colours such as whites and blues.
The Italian Garden is made up of four sections that have been planted with plum trees, there are spring bulbs and pleached limes for visitors to see. In 2008 there was a new feature added, the Water Flame feature, the feature is located in the Laburnum Garden and consists of an orange flame that appears to be balanced at the of a fountain of water.
St. Martin's Church is on the hole a medieval structure that has been enlarged and restored over the years. Sir Robert Walpole helped to rebuild the tower as a memorial to his grandfather in the 18th century. The church displays some Gothic style and details and it is thought the style was suitable for academic buildings in the early part of the 18th century. The church does not have memorial tablets or sculptural monuments however Sir Robert, his wives, his brother and a number of successors are all buried here. The church has one monument inside it, the effigy of a prior of Coxford who died at the start of the 14th century.
How to Get There
Houghton can be accessed by both car and public transport:
By Car:
Houghton is located approx 100 miles from central London. The approx journey time is 2 hours and 45 minutes. From London take the A11 then take the A12 then the A406 North Circular. At junction 4 exit on to the M11 and drive until junction 9 and exit towards A11 Norwich, drive along the A11 until junction 36 when it becomes the A14, exit the A14 at junction 38 back on to the A11. Then take the A1065 heading to Brandon/Swaffham and continue for approx 15 miles until the left turning for Bailey Street. Continue on Bailey Street until junction with High Street and keep driving on High Street that then turns in to Massingham Road keep driving straight and the road will turn in to Castle Acre Road, Station Road and Nethergate Street. At the junction with the A138 turn right and then take the left turning for Back Street and keep driving along the road and the house is located further up the road.
For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode is PE31 6UE.
By Train:
From London Kings Cross Station there are regular trains available to Kings Lynne Station. The journey time is approx 90 to 100 minutes. From Kings Lynne located 13 miles away, visitors can get a taxi.
Contact Details
Houghton Hall
King's Lynn
Norfolk
PE31 6UE
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)1485 528569
email: info@houghtonhall.com
Website: Houghton Hall
Facilities & Information
Opening Times:
From Middle of April until the end of September: On Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday and Bank Holidays
The House:
Open between 13.30 until 17.00 (Last admission at 16.30)
Other Attractions:
Open from 11.30 until 17.30
NOTE: It is recommended visitors check before going to ensure the house and attractions are open before going.
Further Information:
For House and Other Attractions:
Adults: £8.80 approx, Children: £3.50 approx & Family ticket: £22 approx.
For Attractions excluding the House:
Adults: £6.00 approx, Children: £2.50 approx & Family ticket: £15 approx.
Facilities:
There is a restaurant on site that serves a range of light lunches, refreshments and cakes.
The shop sells gifts, souvenirs, china, memorabilia and jewellery.
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Houghton Hall Map
Tips & Other Considerations
Opening hours may vary depending on the time of year and other factors. It is recommended visitors double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open.
When travelling follow sensible travellers and stay alert, vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Ensure valuables i.e. your wallet/purse are hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to King's Lynn in Norfolk, ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. Use the Journey & Route Planner for door to door directions. Check for the latest traffic information before travelling.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops in time.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
