Magnificent Stately Homes In Norfolk

Explore Norfolk's Grand Historic Houses Spanning Five Centuries

Norfolk’s stately homes bring together an amazingly rich tapestry of history, elegance and, in some cases, breathtaking architecture.  From Tudor mansions to Palladian masterpieces, Norfolk has some of England's finest country houses, each with their own fascinating stories and unique “WOW” factor.

What makes Norfolk exceptional is the timeline of architecture that spans over 500 years.  Where else in England can you experience such prestigious architecture over this grand timescale?

I want to take you on a journey through Norfolk's magnificent historic houses, each offering so much, and each one I've visited on more than one occasion. 

Norfolk Stately Homes Timeline: A Journey Through History

15th Century Tudor Heritage

Blickling Hall: Anne Boleyn's Birthplace

Oxburgh Hall: A Moated Medieval Home

Oxburgh Hall stands as a testament to survival against the odds. This intimate family home has endured civil war, religious persecution, and even threatened demolition.

What makes Oxburgh special: 

• Dramatic moated setting with a magnificent Tudor gatehouse 
• Fascinating Catholic history with priest holes and hidden chambers 
• Exquisite needlework by Mary Queen of Scots 
• Panoramic views from the roof
• Victorian Gothic interiors with ornate decorations 
• Peaceful walled garden and woodlands perfect for family exploration

Despite its small and modest size compared to other stately homes, Oxburgh Hall packs centuries of fascinating history within its moated grounds. 

If you're curious to learn more, you can explore my detailed Oxburgh Hall article here.

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16th Century Emptiness

Please feel free to contact us with Norfolk historic homes that you know of that fall into this category.  We would be delighted to hear from you.

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17th Century Jacobean Elegance

Felbrigg Hall:  A Norfolk Gem

Felbrigg Hall falls into the 17th Century.  Owned by the National Trust, this is one of the most unassuming historic houses in Norfolk.

This unusual Hall features:

• A mix of Jacobean architecture and Gothic features
• Stunning original stained glass windows in the Great Hall
• Another impressive country house library
• A renowned walled garden with dovecot
• Over 500 acres of ancient woodland to walk around
• A church with box pews

The beauty of Felbrigg lies in it's authentic, lived in atmosphere - less ostentatious than say, Holkham or Houghton, but equally captivating with the family stories and the personal touches. 

Look out for the slipper bath - read my full Felbrigg Hall guide here.

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18th Century Georgian Grandeur

Houghton Hall, The Prime Minister's Palace!

Houghton Hall, built for Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, epitomises the grandeur and confidence of 18th century Britain. This stunning Palladian mansion features: 

• Opulent state rooms with original furnishings and decorations 
• World-famous collection of contemporary sculpture in the grounds 
• Spectacular walled garden 
• Award-winning 5-acre garden with fountains and herbaceous borders 
• Model soldier collection with over 20,000 miniature figures 
• White deer park and extensive woodlands
• Regular exhibitions by leading contemporary artists 
  

Houghton really does represent Georgian architecture at its finest - built to impress and still achieving that goal nearly 300 years later. The combination of historic grandeur and cutting-edge art makes it one of Norfolk’s most dynamic visitor attractions. 

Read my Houghton Hall article here.

Holkham Hall, A Palladian Masterpiece

Holkham Hall stands as one of England’s most elegant country houses, the jewel in Norfolk’s crown of stately homes. This magnificent Palladian mansion offers: 

• Spectacular marble hall inspired by the temples of ancient Rome 
• World-class art collection featuring works by Rubens and Van Dyck 
• Six acres of walled garden featuring vegetables, fruits and flowers 
• A dedicated bygones museum exploring rural life through the centuries 
• 25,000 acres of estate including woodland, lake and nature reserve 
• Award-winning family-friendly facilities including adventure playground 
• Close proximity to Holkham Beach, one of Britain’s most beautiful coastlines 

The sheer scale and opulence of Holkham must be seen to be believed - its marble hall alone is worth the visit.

Bring the family along and discover all about Holkham Hall here.

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19th Century Royal Residence

Sandringham House: The King's Norfolk Retreat

Sandringham House offers you a genuine insight into royal life in Norfolk. This beloved country retreat of His Majesty King Charles III features: 

• Ground floor rooms decorated as they were in Edwardian times 
• Priceless royal collections of porcelain, jade and family portraits 
• 60 acres of stunning formal gardens designed for royal entertaining 
• 600 acres of country park open to the public year-round 
• Museum housing royal vehicles and memorabilia 
• St Mary Magdalene Church where the Royal Family attends Christmas services 
• Regular special exhibitions and royal events 

What makes Sandringham special is the sense that this is a genuine family home - albeit a royal one. Despite its grandeur, Sandringham maintains a surprisingly intimate atmosphere that gives you a glimpse into the private world of the British monarchy. 

Step inside royal history and explore my Sandringham House article here.

Plan Your Tour Of The Norfolk Stately Homes

Seasonal Highlights

Norfolk’s stately homes are at their best during different seasons: 

Spring: At this time you year you can witness magnificent garden displays as bulbs and blossoms emerge 

Summer: You can enjoy perfect weather for exploring expansive grounds and parklands (although we all know what the British summer weather is like, so be prepared!)

Autumn: Experience spectacular foliage and harvest celebrations 

Winter: Discover magical Christmas decorations and festive events 

Start your planning by checking out which Norfolk stately home you're going to visit first!

Helpful Tips

Many houses close during winter months so always check opening times before visiting.

National Trust properties (Blickling, Felbrigg and Oxburgh) offer significant savings with annual membership.

Most estates offer family tickets and children’s activities during school holidays.

Gardens and parkland often open earlier and close later than the houses themselves.

Dogs are usually welcome in parklands but not inside houses or formal garden.

Mobility scooters are available at many properties with advance booking.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Norfolk's Stately Homes

• Which is the oldest stately home in Norfolk?  Oxburgh Hall and Blickling Hall both date from the 15th century, making them Norfolk’s oldest stately homes open to the public. 

• Can you visit all Norfolk stately homes in one day?  That might be pushing it a bit!  Each property deserves at least half a day to fully appreciate. I recommend focusing on two properties maximum per day or planning a multi-day Norfolk stately homes tour. 

• Which Norfolk stately home is best for children?  Holkham Hall probably offers the most comprehensive family-friendly facilities with its woodland adventure playground, but Sandringham, Blickling and Felbrigg also have excellent children’s activities. 

• Are Norfolk’s stately homes wheelchair accessible?  Most properties offer partial access to ground floors and gardens, with accessible toilets and designated parking. Detailed accessibility guides are available on individual property websites.

• Which Norfolk stately home has the best gardens?  For sheer variety, Blickling’s gardens are spectacular, while Houghton Hall combines historic features with contemporary design. 

• Can you stay overnight at any Norfolk stately homes?  Believe it or not, YES! Wolterton Hall offers luxury apartment rentals, while Holkham, Sandringham and Blickling estates have holiday cottages available for rental. 
  

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