Houghton Hall

Located near King’s Lynn in the county of Norfolk, England, Houghton Hall is a country estate that was built for Sir Robert Walpole, the de facto first Prime Minister of Great Britain.  It was built in the Palladian style of architecture and designed by Colen Campbell, James Gibbs, and William Kent, all well known architects of the period.  The house was built in a rectangular form with a rustic basement and living quarters above.  There are two wings and the corners of the main house each have a beautiful dome.  The inside is colorful and retains the atmosphere of the residence throughout the centuries.

The estate is now held by the Marquess of Cholmondeley who has opened it up to the public.  The lands have a herd of white deer living in the park and peacocks that inhabit the lawns.  Very little of the exterior has changed since it was built in the 18th century.  The house was inherited by the family of the current owners in 1797 and they saved it from disrepair and being sold off.  There has been extensive repair and renovation on and in the house which include a walled flower garden, a ha-ha that has been replaced on the west side of the house, and the addition of a tea room and gift shop.

Houghton Hall’s grounds are open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays, and Bank Holiday Mondays from 11am to 5pm from March 23 through September 28.  The house itself opens at 1:30pm to 5pm with the last admission at 4:30pm.  Admission is £8.00 per adult, £3.00 per child 5 through 16, and £20 for family ticket.  These prices include the house tour.  Without the house tour prices would be £5.00, £2.00, and £12.00 respectively.