Holkham Hall — Norfolk’s Coastal Stately Masterpiece

A Grand Estate Inspired by Classical Beauty

On the north Norfolk coast, Holkham Hall stands as one of Britain’s greatest Palladian mansions.
Built in the 18th century for Thomas Coke, 1st Earl of Leicester, it reflects Enlightenment ideals of symmetry, elegance, and innovation.

Today, the estate offers a full day out — from opulent interiors to wide-open parkland and a short stroll to one of England’s most beautiful beaches.

An Architectural Vision Brought to Life

Holkham Hall was designed by William Kent and Matthew Brettingham, leaders of the Palladian movement in England.
Its grand stone façade, columned portico, and perfectly balanced wings showcase a style inspired by ancient Rome and Renaissance Italy.

Therefore, a visit provides not only beauty, but an architectural education in harmony, scale, and proportion.

Exploring Holkham Hall
1. The State Rooms

Inside, luxurious state rooms feature:

Paintings by Old Masters

Marble statuary and gilded detail

Tapestries and fine furniture

The Marble Hall — with soaring columns and a coffered ceiling — is a breathtaking highlight.
Guides share stories of the Coke family and the estate’s long history of art collecting and hospitality.

2. The Walled Garden

A short walk leads to the Walled Garden, where colourful borders, greenhouses, and fruit trees offer seasonal beauty.
In addition, restoration work continues to revive areas that had fallen silent — blending heritage with horticultural creativity.

3. Parkland and Wildlife

More than 3,000 acres of rolling parkland surround the house.
Red and fallow deer roam freely beneath majestic oak and beech trees.
Waymarked trails offer scenic walks to the Lake and beyond.

Learn more at the Holkham Estate official website

Holkham Beach — Coastal Freedom and Fresh Air

Just a short walk or cycle from the hall lies Holkham Beach — a sweeping expanse of golden sand framed by dunes and pinewoods.
It has starred in films and magazines thanks to its wild, unspoilt beauty.
Furthermore, low tide creates shimmering pools that stretch toward the North Sea horizon.

Pairing architecture with coastal freedom makes this estate truly exceptional.

Visiting Holkham Hall
How to Get There

Address: Holkham Estate, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AB

By Car: Paid parking at the hall and beach

By Bus: Coasthopper service from Wells, Hunstanton, and Cromer

Opening Hours & Admission

House open seasonally

Park and walking routes open year-round

Charges apply for house, gardens, and parking

Facilities

Café and courtyard shops

Cycle hire and playground

Toilet facilities and step-free access on main routes

Dog-friendly parkland

Nearby Attractions

Wells-next-the-Sea — Harbour town and seaside charm

Creake Abbey — Peaceful monastic ruins with local produce

Blakeney National Nature Reserve — Seal spotting and coastal walks

Burnham Market — Stylish boutiques and dining

Together, they form the North Norfolk Coast & Country Trail.

Why Visit Holkham Hall?

The Holkham experience blends:

World-class architecture

Expansive landscapes

Wildlife and freedom

Relaxing coastal adventure

Whether you admire the Marble Hall, picnic under ancient trees, or explore the beach at sunset, Holkham offers inspiration at every turn.

It’s not just a stately home — it’s Norfolk’s masterpiece of land and sea.