An introduction by Lord Cholmondeley:

I have always felt that Houghton has a very special, unspoilt atmosphere with its herd of white deer in the park, and peacocks strutting on the west front. The house itself has changed little since the 18th-century, and it is easy to imagine Sir Robert Walpole entertaining his guests after a hard day's hunting.

Yet it should be remembered that the house retains so much of that character thanks to the Cholmondeleys, particularly to the 1st Marquess, who inherited the house in 1797 and saved the furniture from sale; to my grandfather, the 5th Marquess, who died in 1968; and of course to my grandmother, who was also heiress to her brother, Sir Philip Sassoon.

(Lady Cholmondeley - The late Marchioness of Cholmondeley)

A great deal has been happening at Houghton over the last few years. In the house we have continued an extensive programme of repair and restoration begun by my grandparents in the 1920's. Outside there are new developments in the Walled Garden, which was planted in memory of my grandmother; while a long-vanished ha-ha has been put back on the west side of the house, separating the lawn from recently laid-out parkland. My father's model soldier collection now has its home in the vaulted stable block, as does the new tea room and gift shop.

There are also plans to introduce works by contemporary artists into the grounds and the south wing of the house. Just recently, an agreement was reached whereby the Victoria and Albert Museum will take on the ownership of several important items in the State Rooms in lieu of tax, thereby helping to ensure the future of the house and its contents.

Houghton today is the centre of a thriving estate, reflecting the ups and downs of nearly 300 years of history, while still dominated by the ebullient personality, energy and taste of Sir Robert Walpole.

I very much hope you enjoy your visit.

DAVID CHOLMONDELEY

( Sir Robert Walpole - Great Britain's first Prime Minister)

--------------