Houghton Hall & Gardens

Houghton Hall & Gardens

One of the finest Palladian Houses in this country. Built in the 1720s, for Sir Robert Walpole, Britain’s First Prime Minister. It is a showcase of the work of architects James Gibbs and Colen Campbell complemented by the richly ornamented interiors of William Kent and furnished to reflect Walpole’s growing wealth and power. The Hall is currently the home of the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley, Walpole’s descendent, and his family. Situated in traditional parkland, Houghton is home to a spectacular herd of white fallow deer. There is an award-winning 5-acre Walled Garden. The Stables contain a range of original wooden stalls, with a tack and harness room. There is a fully licensed café, Gift Shop, Soldier Museum and Norfolk-By-Design Pop Up shop selling local Norfolk artworks. An impressive collection of contemporary sculptures by world-renowned artists are displayed in the gardens and grounds including pieces by James Turrell, Richard Long, Stephen Cox, Zhan Wang, Anya Gallaccio, Stephen Cox, Jeppe Hein, Rachel Whiteread and Phillip King. Running until 26th October 2017 is a special exhibition EARTH SKY by the highly acclaimed British Sculptor and Turner Prize Winner, Richard Long. Visit www.houghtonhall.com for more information.

Review

This Top 100 Gardens in Britain book isn’t just a book about some of the prettiest gardens throughout the United Kingdom, it is also celebrating parklands and at Houghton, they seem to have it all. Let me start by introducing you to Houghton’s Walled and sculpture gardens together with the ingenious ‘Waterflame’ which truly is a one off. Acres of pure gardening heaven awaits you and wether you know a lot about gardening or not, I expect you won’t want to leave, such is the great atmosphere here at Houghton. Lord Cholmondeley has built up a great collection of modern artworks, which just adds to the unique experience a visit here will bring you. Last but no means least is the parkland here at Houghton and if you love walking, you’ll absolutely love the parkland and sculpture trail. I think in short, a visit to Houghton Hall gardens and parkland is all about discovery and exploration and I think that once visited, never forgotten.