The huge, and hugely impressive 18th century Holkham Hall has been described as “the supreme example of the neo-Palladian house”. It is certainly a reason to visit the northern top of Norfolk, to explore the hall and surrounding grounds and Holkham National Nature Reserve (covered in my Wells-Next-The-Sea to Burnham Overy Staithe post). To start with the house, which immediately astonishes upon entering into the huge marble hall, modelled on a Roman basilica.

Inside no expense has been spared on the tasteful interior, home to an impressive art collection including works by Gainsborough, Reynolds, Rubens, and Claude.

The house is incredibly symmetrical, with four wings off the main building with the usual variety of bedrooms, bathrooms, and a chapel.

Below are the servants quarter, with a sizeable kitchen and a games room.

Holkham Stories next to the cafe tells the story of the Earls of Leicester who have owned the estate for over 400 years, and of the estate over the course of the year.

Above 15 minutes walk away are the six acre walled gardens.

Inside is a huge variety of colour…

…and many greenhouses.

The extensive grounds are free for the public to explore, with bicycles a popular option.

I returned a couple of days later for a longer morning walk around the grounds.

Most of which are used for agriculture.

There is a large obelisk in the middle of the grounds, dating from 1732, which was the first major structure on the site, pre-dating the hall.

And a variety of wildlife.