About Houghton Deer Park & Farm
The deer park at Houghton is as old as the Hall itself, dating back to the 1720s.
Hugh, the fifth Marquess of Cholmondeley, feeding a white fallow deer at Houghton Hall
A landscape shaped in the 1720s
The park was originally laid out by Charles Bridgeman, the innovative royal landscaper, during the construction of the Hall for Britain's first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole.
Bridgeman moved away from formal, rigid patterns to create a more natural, organic landscape that integrated the surrounding wilderness. Some of the trees he planted still thrive here today, such as ancient oaks and sweet chestnuts.
Designed for grand vistas and long walks
The Norfolk Congresses
Sir Robert used the park for lavish "Norfolk Congresses"—autumn hunting parties attended by political allies and local gentry. The vast vistas and avenues were designed to reflect his immense wealth and political influence.
Our White Fallow Deer
White Fallow Deer on The Houghton Estate
The Houghton Estate is renowned for its unusual herd of white fallow deer that roam the 450 acres of parkland surrounding the Hall.
The origin of the white fallow deer is not quite known, but the 5th Marquess of Cholmondeley is believed to have selected the white colour as a preference.
Restoration from 1919
After a period of decline in the 19th century, the park was revitalised, starting in 1919 by the 5th Marquess and Marchioness.
They planted thousands of trees and worked to restore the original 18th century scheme.
A living estate today
Today, the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley continues this legacy, maintaining the parkland as a sustainable farming enterprise while integrating major contemporary art installations, such as Richard Long's White Deer Circle, which the resident deer have famously adopted as a resting place.
Richard Long's White Deer Circle at Houghton