Description
Are you looking for one of the best things to do with kids in Norfolk? This historic estate balances rich British heritage with expansive outdoor spaces, making it a brilliant choice for a family day out. It operates as an open-air art venue and historic estate where children can explore creative contemporary sculptures while burning off energy in nature.
Prices start from £22.00 for adults when booking online, while children under 18 can enter completely free of charge. This makes it an affordable premium option for families looking to experience culture without paying for multiple high-priced tickets.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines fresh country air, world-class art, and plenty of space to run around, this estate hits the mark perfectly. It offers a relaxed alternative to crowded theme parks while still giving children an exciting, visual adventure.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
What makes Houghton Hall & Gardens unique?
- Vast Outdoor Exploration: Kids can safely roam across acres of beautifully manicured lawns and wilder parklands.
- Educational Day Out: The estate offers a deep dive into British history, classic architecture, and wildlife tracking.
- Interactive Art Discovery: Children can engage with large-scale contemporary sculptures scattered throughout the open fields.
What are the best things to see at Houghton Hall?
- The Walled Garden: This is a spectacular five-acre garden featuring a formal rose garden, fruit trees, and clear fountains. Kids love the hidden paths and the sensory experience of the blooming flowers.
- The Model Soldier Museum: This room contains the largest private collection of model soldiers in the world. Children will be fascinated by the intricate battle re-enactments and thousands of tiny military figures.
- The Deer Park: The surrounding parkland is home to a magnificent herd of white fallow deer. Families can spot these gentle creatures roaming freely across the estate fields.
- Contemporary Sculpture Trail: Large art installations by world-famous artists are spread across the grass. It turns a standard walk into a fun, interactive treasure hunt for energetic kids.
- The Great House: The stunning Palladian mansion features spectacular historic state rooms. It offers older kids a fascinating glimpse into how British prime ministers and royalty used to live.
Your family can explore several specific attractions and sub-exhibits across the grounds:
- The Walled Garden Fountains
- The Water Flame sculpture by Jeppe Hein
- The Syren Tree sculpture by Cristina Iglesias
- The Skyspace by James Turrell
- The Houghton Madrigal sculpture by Richard Long
- The Walpole Private Collection of Model Soldiers
- The Stone Hall inside the Main House
- The Marble Parlour
4.98 miles
