Holkham Hall

Location

Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AB

From London 120m, Norwich 35m, Kings Lynn 30m.

History

Holkham Hall has been the home of the Coke family and the Earls of Leicester for almost 250 years. Built between 1734 and 1762 by Thomas Coke, 1st Earl of Leicester and based on a design by William Kent, this fine example of 18th century Palladian style mansion reflects Thomas Coke's natural appreciation of classical art developed during the Grand Tour. It is constructed mainly of local yellow brick with a magnificent Entrance Hall of English alabaster.

The State Rooms occupy the first floor and contain Greek and Roman statuary, paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck, Claude, Poussin and Gainsborough and original furniture.

On leaving the House visitors pass Holkham Pottery and its adjacent shop, both under the supervision of the Countess of Leicester. Fine examples of local craftsmanship are for sale including the famous Holkham Florist Ware.

Beyond re the 19th century stables now housing the Holkham Bygones Collection; some 4,000 items range from working steam engines, vintage cars and tractors to craft tools and kitchenware. A History of Farming exhibition is in the former Porter's Lodge.

The House is set in a 3,000-acre park with 600 head of fallow deer. On the lake, 1 mile long, are many species of wildfowl. Two walks encircle either the lake or agricultural buildings.

The Holkham Garden Centre occupies the 19th century walled Kitchen Garden and a large range of stock is on sale to the public.

Facilities & Amenities

Shop. Grounds for shows, rallies and filming. No smoking or flash photography in the Hall.

Disabled visitors may alight at entrance, stairs in the Hall. Disabled WC.

Tearoom. Menus for pre-booked parties on request.

Guides are posted in each room. Audio tour £2, other times guided tours by arrangement.

Unlimited parking for cars, 20+ coaches. Parking, admission, refreshments free to coach drivers, coach drivers' rest room.

School groups welcome. Areas of interest: bygones: collection, history of farming, 2 nature walks, deer park, lake and wildfowl.

No dogs allowed in Hall. Dogs allowed on leads in grounds.