October at Holkham
September 28, 2022 | Events | 6 minute read
Leaves are beginning to golden, mornings are getting more crisp and woolly jumpers are being pulled out of storage. Holkham is a special place throughout the year, glorious in every season, but autumn is often a particular highlight. Whether you enjoy lengthy strolls layered up with the sea breeze rosying your cheeks, or prefer staying indoors with friends, you’ll find all sorts of autumnal delights at Holkham.
The great outdoors
Celebrate the October breeze and rustling leaves with us. The days may be shortening, but there are plenty of ways to explore during daylight hours. Once you’ve finished exploring, warm up with a hot drink including autumnal favourites like spiced lattes at Wells Beach Café and the Courtyard Café, or delicious filter coffee at The Lookout.
Walking is always a popular pursuit in Holkham Park, the Holkham National Nature Reserve, through the pinewoods and along the sands of Wells and Holkham beaches. Why not try something new this month, and take a trail you haven’t explored before? Seven routes are mapped out for you, varying from just over a mile up to six, and cover a mix of terrain, from woodland and grassland to gravel tracks and tarmac.
If you prefer to get around a little quicker, you’ll be pleased to know our cycle hire is open all September and on 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th, 15th-30th October. Bike hire is available for two hours or a whole day, from 10am-4pm. Of course, you can enjoy our trails and surroundings on your own wheels too, and with a 30 percent discount off standard admission to the Hall, Walled Garden and Holkham Stories Experience when you arrive by bike, train, bus or on foot, it pays to do so!
Our Walled Garden is open daily until 31st October. Enjoy late blooming flowers and gain inspiration for your autumn garden as you wander the six acres and our Georgian and Victorian glasshouses.
The great indoors
If you’d prefer to explore undercover, there’s plenty for you to enjoy here too. The Hall, open on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays, is a magnificent place to visit. Marvel at the breath-taking Marble Hall as you enter the 18th-century Palladian style home, and discover the myriad of state rooms, from sumptuous bedchambers to dining rooms adorned with art by the Old Masters. Free-flow tours allow you the chance to wander the Hall at your own pace, and Hall Guides are on hand to answer your questions.
A specialist tour of the Hall will provide even further insight into the history of the building and its people. On Wednesdays in October, our behind-the-scenes tours explore the hidden passages and the servants’ stairs of Holkham Hall, taking you right up to the highest tower rooms and attics. Bridgerton and period drama fans might enjoy our Country House Party tour on 19th October, focusing on great hospitality and lavish parties in days gone by.
For a cosy lunchtime treat, head to The Victoria and take advantage of our seasonal set menu, available on weekdays until 21st October. Created from core ingredients sourced within a 20-mile radius of the hotel, the seasonal dishes will change weekly and include either a meat or fish and a vegetarian option. Enjoy two courses for £20 or indulge with three for £25, while enjoying the warmth of a log fire on chilly days. Click here for menus and call 01328 711008 to book ahead.
We’re looking forward to a Chamber Music Celebration on 14 October. This will be marking the 6th Anniversary of Classical Music Rocks, a unique in its nature organization which regularly brings musicians of the highest calibre to schools in West Norfolk and beyond. Expect trio music with three international and captivating players: Klio Blonz on the flute, Rebecca Hepplewhite on the cello and Grace Mo on the piano. They will be performing works by Haydn, Hummel, Gaubert, Martinu and Enescu, not to forget Louise Farrenc, a truly remarkable woman composer and leading artiste of her time.
The magic of autumn – a wild half term
Late October brings half term, and we’re going wild! Children and adults can enjoy additional autumnal activities and adventures within our attractions. Expect birds of prey displays, pumpkin carving, crafts, storytelling, deer-spotting safaris and educational nature trails between Saturday 22nd – Sunday 30th October. Street food will be available from the 26th, too!
