Hall & State Rooms

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Hall & State Rooms

History and Elegance Converge in Timeless Grandeur

One of the most captivating features of Houghton Hall is its splendid State Rooms, meticulously designed to showcase the opulence and refinement of the Georgian era. These rooms served as the backdrop for lavish gatherings, political meetings, and royal receptions, reflecting the prestige and influence of the Walpole family.

Hall & State Rooms

The Arcade

Visitors enter through the door under the west steps, rebuilt in 1973 by Lady Sybil Cholmondeley in her husband's memory. Inside, you'll find the lower hall, or Arcade, as it's always been known. Since the late 18th century, this area has been the main entrance, witnessing bustling activity during Sir Robert's hunting days or political gatherings. Today, it hosts estate celebrations, retaining original furnishings like mahogany benches and rail-back chairs. A door halfway down the south wall leads to the foot of the great staircase, where the interior's drama unfolds.

The Great Staircase

The Doric columns of the stone temple catch the eye in the stairwell. Climbing the staircase with its carved mahogany balustrade reveals the temple's purpose: it holds the bronze copy of the Borghese Gladiator, discovered in 1611 and reproduced by Le Sueur for the Earl of Pembroke's garden. This composition hints at William Kent's originality, with the advancing figure seeming to beckon visitors toward the Stone Hall. Original carved wooden gilt Arms adorn the staircase corners, alongside some original glass bowls.

The Stone Hall

The grand double-height Stone Hall, inspired by Inigo Jones's Queen's House at Greenwich, serves as a transitional space between the outdoor and indoor areas, preparing visitors for the magnificence of the interiors that follow. Its ornate decoration, featuring intricate carving and plasterwork, harmonises with the Hall’ strong architectural character. Nothing is arbitrary in William Kent's interior design: the suite of hall settees was meticulously placed in these specific spots within the Stone Hall, and remains there to this day.

The Saloon

The opulent Saloon, adorned with crimson caffoy wall coverings and intricate gilded door surrounds, was once adorned with a dense array of paintings, later sold to Catherine the Great of Russia. Today, her portrait graces the chimney piece, a gift to the 3rd Earl. Richly detailed and gilded, these architectural features are crafted from solid mahogany, reflecting Sir Robert Walpole's influence in lowering import duties on the material. It is within this room that William Kent's prowess as an architectural decorator shines brightest at Houghton.

The White Drawing Room

An exquisite room adorned with elaborate ceiling panels and wall hangings that were designed by William Kent. The suite of carved and gilded chairs with silk and velvet coverings was made for this room and the preceding two rooms to form a separate state apartment within the house. The paintings displayed in this room include various family portraits. Charles Turner's portrait of Georgina, Marchioness of Cholmondeley, with her younger son, William, from circa 1805 hangs above the fireplace.

The Green Velvet Bedchamber

The Green Velvet Bedchamber is Houghton's most sumptuous and grandest guest bedroom and is dedicated to Venus, goddess of Love and Sleep. Some fifteen feet in height, and draped in green velvet, the imposing bed is another masterpiece by William Kent and one of the finest examples of an eighteenth-century state bed anywhere in the world. It is tradition that newlywed members of the family spend their wedding night in The Green Velvet Bedchamber. Venus’s great shell sits against the head cloth and is echoed in the ceiling, tapestries and fireplace.

The Tapestry Dressing-Room

The Tapestry Dressing Room at Houghton Hall is hung with several 17th century tapestries depicting key members of the House of Stuart, namely King James I and Anne of Denmark, King Charles I and Henrietta Maria, and King Christian IV of Denmark, with pilaster strips featuring Stuart children. The tapestries are among the few items at Houghton that once adorned the Walpole family's Tudor manor house that previously stood on the same site. The Tapestry Dressing Room also houses the consort's throne when it's not in use at the Palace of Westminster.

The Embroidered Bed Chamber

Possibly the piano nobile's most sumptuous room, it features William Kent's significant ceiling painting, an apt poetic allegory for a bedroom. Its centerpiece is a 17th-century state bed with embroidered curtains, likely commissioned by Sir Edward Walpole around 1665, adorned with a subtle blend of oriental and chinoiserie patterns. The canopy's corner fastenings display the Walpole family arms, bestowed by King Henry III in 1230, a symbol proudly carried by the family through generations.

The Cabinet Room

In 1779, George Walpole, 3rd Earl of Orford, replaced William Kent's original design scheme for the Cabinet Room at Houghton. The green velvet hangings were removed and replaced with striking blue-ground Chinese hand-painted paper. The room is dominated by a child's four-poster bed, replete with Chinese embroidery, which was a christening present to Sir Robert Walpole's grandson from King George II and Queen Caroline, his godparents. Among the other furniture in the Cabinet Room is a pair of beautifully carved and gilded rococo mirrors.

The Marble Parlour

The Marble Parlour at Houghton Hall, originally crafted for Sir Robert Walpole's opulent gatherings, features a fireplace designed to discreetly accommodate servants replenishing food and wine. Collaboratively designed by William Kent and sculptor John Michael Rysbrack, the room is adorned with grape motifs, seen on the fireplace mantle, painted ceiling, cornice, and alcove sconces. Rysbrack's impressive relief above the fireplace portrays 'The Sacrifice to Bacchus', inspired by the Greco-Roman god of wine.

The Common Parlour

This room contains one of the largest collections of Walpole family portraits and was used as the family dining room during Sir Robert’s lifetime and is, therefore, far more intimate than other rooms in the house. It is deliberately devoid of the spectacular decorative style that characterises the other state rooms at Houghton. In many ways, the plainness of the room elevates the prominence of the paintings. The room’s crimson and green damask chairs were designed by William Kent and are original to the house.

The Library

Unaltered since Sir Robert Walpole's era, the Library boasts mahogany bookshelves adorned with intricate architectural carvings. The pilasters' bases conceal drawers lined with mahogany, still pristine. Sir Robert's extensive collection reflects his scholarly pursuits, featuring classical literature, history, and architectural folios from France and Italy. The room's focal point, a writing table, unveiled Kent's original drawings, including details of adjacent Common Parlour's picture hangs, discovered by the present Marquess of Cholmondeley.

The Arcade

The Great Staircase

The Stone Hall

The Saloon

The White Drawing Room

The Green Velvet Bedchamber

The Tapestry Dressing-Room

The Embroidered Bed Chamber

The Cabinet Room

The Marble Parlour

The Common Parlour

The Library

The Arcade

The Great Staircase

The Stone Hall

The Saloon

The White Drawing Room

The Green Velvet Bedchamber

The Tapestry Dressing-Room

The Embroidered Bed Chamber

The Cabinet Room

The Marble Parlour

The Common Parlour

The Library

x2mate.com-Cabana Presents_ Houghton Hall with the Marquess and Marchioness of Cholmondele

The State Rooms

Situated on the first floor (piano nobile) and adorned by William Kent, the State Rooms boast opulent decor with intricately painted ceilings and suites of lavish, carved, and gilded furniture. Originally accessed via outside steps leading to the Stone Hall, these rooms were meticulously designed to awe Sir Robert Walpole's esteemed guests, serving as the venue for grand-scale entertaining and showcasing some of Walpole's most prized paintings.

Opulent Elegance

The State Bedroom, with the famous Shell bed, was hung with green velvet, then the most expensive material, with silver gilt embroidery and fringing. Venus’s shell on the headboard is echoed in the ceiling, tapestries and fireplace . On the other side of the house, the dining-room, or Marble Parlour, is dedicated to Bacchus, and bunches of grapes and vine leaves appear on the marble chimney-piece, on the plaster ceilings and carved above the doors. The overmantel frames the Sacrifice to Bacchus, by Michael Rysbrack, while arches framed in different sorts of marble lead to a hidden recess. Walpole spared no expense in the decoration of these rooms, although they would rarely have been used, as he only visited Norfolk twice a year.

The hall featured impressive modern sculptures alongside intriguing older artifacts. I'm eager to return soon. The friendly staff warmly welcomed visitors, offering detailed information and insights into the hall's history and exhibits.

The hall was stunning. Especially the ornate ceilings. We loved the library too. There was a lovely man as we came up the main stairs, maybe called Graham, he was knowledgeable and made us welcome. All the staff we met were in fact so friendly.

What a hidden gem!!! We came across Houghton Hall whilst talking with friends. It is absolutely beautiful from the Hall, the gardens, the white deer, the Chapel in fact everything about it is amazing. I would certainly recommend and can guarentee you'll have a great day.

We loved being able to view such wonderful pieces. The guides were all so keen to share the history of the house with the visitors, and were very informative. A sensational day out!

A real treat. House and grounds are outstanding with a surprise round every corner. Knowledgable and friendly staff. Will definitely be visiting again.

The staff were amazing, informative, passionate and super friendly, how delightful to hear from them that they all felt appreciated by the family which clearly showed in the way they dealt with visitors.

This is a first rate stately home that ticks all of the boxes . The interior is most impressive from the sculptures to the model soldiers and the staff are very informative.

The main house itself was beyond expectations. Each room had a ‘wow’ factor surpassing anything we had seen before (including Blenheim Palace).
The Members of staff in each room were genuinely friendly and informative without being pushy. Loved it.

One of England's Treasure Houses that is a must see for any serious architecture enthusiast. Pictures alone do not convey the stately dignity of the house. The proportions are excellent. It is large but not overwhelming. The interiors are exceptional not only for the craftsmanship and design but also the preservation.

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Plan Your Visit

Book online in advance to save on your visit

Unlock savings of up to 10% off our standard 'on the gate' ticket prices when you book in advance! You have a choice of entry tickets:

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).

Book Tickets

See & Do at Houghton Hall

The Houghton Collection

Our History

Contemporary Art at Houghton Hall & Gardens, Norfolk

Past Exhibitions

The Houghton Collection

Our History

See & Do at Houghton Hall

The Hall & Grounds

Hall & State Rooms

The Walled Garden

St Martin's Church

Deer Park

Contemporary Art

Exhibitions

Outdoor Sculpture

The Stables

Stables & Tack Room

Model Soldier Museum

The Stables Café

Gift Shop

Plan Your Visit

Groups & Tours

Visitor Information

Hall & State Rooms

History and Elegance Converge in Timeless Grandeur

Hall & State Rooms

The State Rooms

Opulent Elegance

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Plan Your Visit

Book online in advance to save on your visit

See & Do at Houghton Hall

The Houghton Collection

Our History

Past Exhibitions

The Houghton Collection

Our History

See & Do at Houghton Hall

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