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 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.