16 Jan 2026
Houghton Hall in Norfolk is set to bloom this spring with the launch of Tulips at Houghton, a vibrant new garden event opening in April 2026. Visitors will be able to explore the estate's award-winning five-acre Walled Garden, transformed with 25,000 tulip bulbs supplied by leading bulb specialists Peter Nyssen.
The event invites visitors to wander through avenues of colourful tulips, early-flowering plants, and beautifully curated displays. The planting scheme has been carefully designed to complement the garden's distinct areas, including species tulips beneath historic fruit trees, bold drifts in borders and walkways, and stunning potted displays throughout.
The Walled Garden, created in 1991 by Lord Cholmondeley as a memorial to his grandmother, Sybil, Marchioness of Cholmondeley, is a horticultural highlight of Norfolk. Divided into themed 'rooms'—such as the Italian Garden, Rose Parterre, orchard, vegetable potager, and Mediterranean garden—it blends structure, imagination, and artistry. Sculpture features prominently, with works by Richard Long RA, Stephen Cox RA, and Jeppe Hein integrated throughout.
A special highlight for 2026 is the public debut of three new Antony Gormley RA sculptures, abstract human-shaped forms that will appear to float above the garden walls, creating a striking visual experience.
“Tulips at Houghton will be an unforgettable experience for garden enthusiasts and visitors to North Norfolk,” says Stephen Teeuw, Marketing Manager at Peter Nyssen. “It's a unique opportunity to see tulips in a historic setting—perfect for photography and spring inspiration.”
Event Details:
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Opening: Saturday 11 April – early May (Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, plus May Bank Holiday weekend 2–4 May)
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Tickets: £12 in advance | £14 on the gate | Free for under 18s & Historic Houses members
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Includes access to the Walled Garden, Deer Park, and Old Stables Courtyard
Visitors are encouraged to sign up for tulip progress updates and event news at www.houghtonhall.com, where updates will also be shared via Instagram and Facebook.
About Houghton Hall
Houghton Hall is a stately home in Norfolk, famed for its State Rooms, art collection, Walled Garden, Sculpture Park, and parkland. The Hall and Sculpture Park are expected to open in early May.
About Peter Nyssen
Awarded Which? Magazine Best Bulb Supplier 2025, Peter Nyssen Bulbs are renowned for quality, expertise, and an extensive selection of tulips, daffodils, and flowering bulbs.
Media Contact:
Tracy Carroll
Marketing and Events Manager, Houghton Hall
✉️ tracy@houghtonhall.com | ☎️ 01485 528569
Website: www.houghtonhall.com