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Houghton Hall and Gardens is CLOSED and will re-open in SPRING 2025

Houghton Hall & Gardens: An Exceptional Day Out for Every Visitor!

Constructed in the 1720s for Britain's first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, Houghton Hall is now the residence of the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley, a direct descendant of Sir Robert Walpole, and his family. The Hall, surrounded by extensive parkland, is known for its iconic white fallow deer and features notable attractions, including an award-winning Walled Garden, the world's largest private collection of model soldiers in the Model Soldier Museum, and a charming Cafe and Gift Shop.

Additionally, the Sculpture Park features an impressive permanent collection of contemporary sculptures. In 2024, major solo exhibitions by Antony Gormley and Magdalene Odundo are scheduled.

A great day out however you explore.

Where possible we make provisions to ensure Houghton is accessible for wheelchair, mobility scooter and buggy users. The whole stable block is wheelchair/buggy friendly, but the stable yard has small cobbled stones. In the Walled Garden, two mobility scooters and seating are available. Note that some paths are gravelled.  At the House, wheelchairs are provided, and a lift is available upon request, as State Rooms are up one flight of stairs.

Guide dogs and assistance dogs are permitted.

Accessibility at Houghton Hall and Gardens

Accessibility

Designated Parking

Upon arrival at the Ticket Office, you will be directed to either the car park or designated Blue Badge parking, which is very close to the house.

Powered mobility vehicles

In the Walled Garden, two mobility scooters are available for borrowing. These are not reserved, but if both are in use, the wait is usually short, with seating available.

Level access to shop

Located in the stable block. Please be aware that the stable yard is covered with cobbles.

Located in the stable block. Please be aware that the stable yard is covered with cobbles.

Attendants 

Helpful attendants are on site to provide direction and assistance in gallery spaces and outside areas such as parking.

Wheelchairs and lift available

A limited number of wheelchairs are available to borrow within the house. There is also a lift available on request when you reach the hall.

Visiting with a Carer

Carers visit free; a complimentary ticket is issued upon arrival. Proof of carer status is required, such as:

  • Letter from local authority confirming Carer's Allowance

  • GP letter registering carer status

  • Registered carer card (e.g. CredAbility Access Card, CEA Card)

We advise that all of our visitors wear appropriate footwear.

Accessibility at Houghton Hall and Gardens
Accessibility at Houghton Hall and Gardens

“The staff were amazing, informative, passionate and super friendly,”

Accessibility at Houghton Hall and Gardens

Plan your Visit

Experience a Great Day Out and Inclusive Experiences for All...

  • ART ENTHUSIASTS
    Immerse yourself in our celebrated series of contemporary art shows, with major solo exhibitions in 2024 by Antony Gormley and Madeleine Odundo. Discover our permanent sculpture collection and thought-provoking installations, featuring works by world-renowned artists such as Richard Long, Stephen Cox, Jeppe Hein, Anya Gallaccio, and James Turrell displayed throughout the grounds.
  • GARDEN LOVERS
    Step into the award-winning five-acre Walled Garden, which includes a spectacular double-sided herbaceous border, a kitchen garden with arches and espaliers of apples and pears, and a formal rose parterre. It offers a haven for the avid horticulturalist, nature lover, or anyone in search of peaceful tranquility amidst a beautiful setting.
  • FAMILIES & ALL AGES
    Embark on a day of enthralment and exploration! Our attractions cater to everyone, from the world-class model soldier museum housing the largest private collection in the world, to the nearby (5* TripAdvisor rated) café, lively playground, majestic historic Hall, and breathtaking Walled Gardens and sculpture park.
  • HISTORY BUFFS
    Embark on a journey through time, exploring the storied halls of Sir Robert Walpole's residence and delving into the legacies left by generations at Houghton Hall. This fine example of Palladian architecture and interiors by William Kent is also home to the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley, Walpole's descendant, and his family.
  • By Train:
    The nearest train station is King’s Lynn. Greater Anglia operate a regular service from London Kings Cross and Cambridge to King’s Lynn. There are direct trains from London King’s Cross to King’s Lynn https://www.thetrainline.com
  • By Road:
    Houghton Hall is located half a mile off the A148 King’s Lynn to Fakenham road, approximately 13 miles East of King’s Lynn and 10 miles West of Fakenham. Look for Brown Tourist Signs on the A148 indicating the turnoff. Once you enter New Houghton, follow the road straight to the main gates of the Hall. Drive through the main gates and follow the road through the Deer Park to reach the Car Park.
  • By Taxi:
    Taxis from King’s Lynn train station to Houghton Hall take approximately 25 minutes. Connect Cars – Tel 01553 776633 King’s Abbey Cars – Tel 01553 777788
  • What if I can’t visit after I’ve booked?
    While we are unable to provide refunds, we understand that plans can change unexpectedly, and we don't want you to miss out. Please reach out to us via info@houghtonhall.com, and we'll do our best to accommodate your request to visit on a different date this season (typically requiring 48 hours' notice).
  • Do I need to book tickets?
    We highly encourage you to book your tickets in advance of your visit to secure your spot, and you can take advantage of the £2 per person discount by booking online through this link. If you're undecided, you have the option to purchase or upgrade tickets at the gate, on the day of your visit, so there's no need to worry.
  • How much are tickets?
    Admission to Antony Gormley's "Time Horizon" (April 21 - October 31) and Magdalene Odundo's exhibition (May 12 - September 29) is included in the Standard Full Admission Ticket. House entry is from midday, with no specific session times (1100 - 1700 hrs). RHS or HHA Members: To explore the House, Sculpture Park, and Exhibition/s, upgrading your Walled Garden & Stables Only ticket to a Standard Full Admission ticket (additional £12) is required. RHS members: Please note that Walled Garden & Stables Admission concessions only apply in June/July only.
  • Do I have to decide now?
    No, if you’re undecided, we offer you the opportunity to upgrade your tickets on the day, so there is no need to worry.
  • 2024 Grounds Map
  • Can I bring my dog?
    Unfortunately due to the actions of a few, we only welcome guide dogs and assistance dogs here at Houghton.
  • When are you open?
    Key Dates Opening Days Opening Times * Houghton Festival occurs on a separate site away from the Hall and Gardens. Please be aware that occasional low-level sound ingress may occur, depending on factors such as wind direction. Visit website.
  • Booking Information
    These educational visits are offered free of charge, including parking. However, due to limited availability, we advise you to request your visit giving as much notice as possible by contacting us via email at education@houghtonhall.com We look forward to accommodating your educational needs and enhancing your students' learning experience.
  • When to visit
    Educational groups are welcome on Tuesdays. Enjoy exclusive access to the Sculpture Park, outdoor exhibitions, woodland areas, playground, and café during your visit. If desired, arrangements can be made for access to The Walled Garden upon request. However, please be aware that on our dedicated educational days, which take place exclusively on Tuesdays, certain areas like the House with its state rooms, Model Soldier Museum, and Shop will remain closed. This is because Tuesday is not an official open day, and these areas are not staffed on that day.
  • Education Centre
    The Houghton Arts Foundation is delighted to welcome educational visits from schools, colleges, and universities. Students will have access to the Education Centre in the Stables, serving as a designated base for storing belongings such as bags and lunches while exploring. Outdoor benches and tables are available for your convenience.
  • Find Us & Parking
    PARKING IS FREE for visitors to Houghton Hall and Gardens Our full address is Houghton Hall King's Lynn Norfolk PE31 6TY Using a Sat Nav to find us: Postcode PE31 6TY Please note, some Sat Nav systems direct traffic through the Parkland roads which are not accessible by car. Please use the driving directions given below for the best route to the Main Visitor Entrance. what3words for Main Visitor Entrance: baseballs.sorry.challenge By Car: Houghton Hall is easily accessible, located just half a mile from the A148 King’s Lynn to Fakenham road. Specifically, it is about 13 miles East of King’s Lynn and 10 miles West of Fakenham. Follow the Brown Tourist Signs that guide you from the A148 to the entrance. As you pass through New Houghton, proceed straight ahead to reach the main gates of the Hall. Once through the gates, follow the scenic drive through the Deer Park, leading directly to the Car Park area. Taxis from King’s Lynn train station to Houghton Hall take approximately 25 minutes. By Rail: The nearest train station to Houghton Hall is King’s Lynn. Greater Anglia offers a frequent and direct services from both London Kings Cross and Cambridge to King’s Lynn. For more information please visit National Rail.
  • Walled Garden & Stables Admission
    Unlimited access during opening hours to:
  • Standard Full Admission
    Unlimited access during opening hours to:
  • 2024 Season Tickets
    Whilst Season Tickets cannot be purchased online at this time, simply enquire at our ticket office during your next visit. We offer two types of season ticket for 2024. The Garden season ticket at £35 and a Full Admission season ticket at £65. Please see here for more information about Season Tickets. Your season ticket is valid for the 2024 season which ends on Thursday 31st October and cannot be used for special events. Only the named ticket holder can use the ticket and they must bring it with them on the day of the visit.
  • Getting here
    If you're traveling by road to Houghton Hall, the following directions can guide you: From the A148: If you're coming from the east (Fakenham direction), follow the A148 towards King's Lynn. If you're coming from the west (King's Lynn direction), head towards Fakenham on the A148. Look for signs indicating the turn-off for Houghton Hall. The estate is located approximately 5 miles west of Fakenham and 8 miles east of King's Lynn. Follow the signs and road markings leading to Houghton Hall. From the A1065: If you're traveling from the south (Swaffham direction), take the A1065 towards Fakenham. If you're coming from the north (Wells-next-the-Sea direction), head towards Swaffham on the A1065. Look for signs indicating the turn-off for Houghton Hall. The estate is located approximately 5 miles south of the A1065/A148 junction. Follow the signs and road markings leading to Houghton Hall. Please note that using a GPS navigation system with the address provided earlier (Houghton Hall, King's Lynn, Norfolk PE31 6UE, United Kingdom) can also help guide you to your destination.
  • Refreshments
    Groups are welcome to visit the café for refreshments/lunch on a self-paying basis, and we can also arrange private catering in the South Wing.
  • Private Tour Information
    Duration/times Private tours of the Hall take place on public open days before opening at 12pm and take one hour. Typically, your group will go into the hall at 11am or 10am and we will be pleased to advise this when you enquire. Garden tours can take place during opening hours – the garden is large and tours can be accommodated whilst we are open to the public. Arts tours are arranged according to your needs and the focus of your visit. Themes We offer Garden Tours with our head or senior gardener; House Tours led by highly knowledgeable attendants; and Arts Tours accompanied by an arts expert. We are always happy to tailor the content to suit. Numbers and Price Based on a minimum of 15 people, house tours and garden tours cost £10 per person per tour, in addition to the admission price. These take around one hour per tour. We will be pleased to talk through your requirements and confirm the most appropriate package. Arts tours are bespoke and priced according to your needs. Groups of less than 15 people are asked to get in touch for a tailored package. Parties of 20 or more will be split to ensure the best experience. Refreshments Groups are welcome to visit the café for refreshments/lunch on a self-paying basis, and we can also arrange private catering in the South Wing. To enquire about coach trips and group visits, which must be pre-booked and pre-paid, please contact info@houghtonhall.com
  • Ticket Prices
    Season Ticket information is available here. Admission to Antony Gormley's "Time Horizon" (April 21 - October 31) and Magdalene Odundo's exhibition (May 12 - September 29) is included in the Standard Full Admission Ticket. House entry is from midday, with no specific session times (1100 - 1700 hrs). RHS or HHA Members: To explore the House, Sculpture Park, and Exhibition/s, upgrading your Walled Garden & Stables Only ticket to a Standard Full Admission ticket (additional £12) is required. RHS members: Please note that Walled Garden & Stables Admission concessions only apply in June/July only.
  • I’m an RHS Member – when can I use my ticket?
    RHS members can gain free access to the Walled Garden in June and July only. Please do not apply the discount when pre-booking for visits in other months as you will be asked to pay the difference when you arrive.
  • I’m an HHA Member - does this mean I get free entry to the house?
    Your HHA membership entitles you to free entry to the Walled Garden, Model Soldier Museum and Old Stables. If you wish to visit the House, contemporary art exhibition/s, Sculpture Park, and Deer Park, you will need to upgrade (an extra £12). This can be done in advance or during your visit.
  • I’m a group visit organiser – do you accept coach parties?
    Yes, we are delighted to accept pre-booked coach and group visits and can tailor your time here to the needs and interests of your group, including history tours, arts tours and garden tours. Visit our either our Group Visits page, Private Guided Tours page or Educational Visits page for more information.
  • Can we bring a picnic?
    You are welcome to bring a picnic. Tables are provided to the side of our grassy car park. You may also picnic in the parkland – however, please choose a spot away from sculptures and not in front of the Hall, and ensure all rubbish is removed. Barbecues are not allowed. Visitors may not consume their own food at any of the café tables (inside or out).
Houghton Hall Estate Parkland 5.jpg

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