About

Built in the 1720s, for Sir Robert Walpole, Britain's First Prime Minister, Houghton Hall is one of the finest Palladian Houses in England. 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 the home of the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley, Walpole's descendent, and his family. 

Surrounded by traditional parkland, Houghton has a spectacular herd of white fallow deer. The award winning five acre Walled Garden includes a spectacular double-sided herbaceous border, a formal rose parterre, and a rustic temple designed by Julian and Isabel Bannerman. There is also a sculpture park featuring an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures acquired by Lord Cholmondeley.

World renowned artist Sean Scully has taken over its gardens and historic interiors for a major exhibition showcasing the full range of the artist’s sculpture for the 2023 season. In the Hall and Contemporary Gallery, there is also a significant group of Scully’s paintings and works on paper. Sean Scully at Houghton Hall – Smaller Than The Sky opened on 23 April 2023 and will run until 29 October.

Other contemporary sculptures on display in the grounds include works by Rachel Whiteread, Stephen Cox, Phillip King, Anish Kapoor, Anya Gallaccio, James Turrell, Jeppe Hein, and Richard Long.

The Stables contain a range of original wooden stalls and tack and harness room. There is a fully-licensed café, Gift Shop and a Soldier Museum, which holds The Cholmondeley Collection of Soldiers, one of the largest private collections in the world, with 20,000 models displayed. 

Palladian Mansion. Award-winning 5-acre Walled Garden, Model Soldier Museum, Contemporary Sculptures, Deer Park, Café & Gift shop, Picnic & Play Area.

Christie's Garden of the Year Award 2007 by Historic Houses Association.
Visit England - Quality Rose Marque. HHA Member, RHS Partner Garden, National Gardens Scheme Member.