The fabulous art collection of Britain’s first Prime Minister Robert Walpole is being reassembled this summer for the first time in over 200 years in its original setting at his magnificent ancestral home – Houghton Hall near King’s Lynn. A short drive away, The Hoste is offering two-night breaks in May and June which include a private talk and tour of the exhibition for small groups.
The Houghton Revisited exhibition provides a unique opportunity to view one of the most important collections of 18th-century European art, sold to Russia’s Empress Catherine the Great in 1779 to add to her treasures at The Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg. Featuring masterpieces by Van Dyck, Rubens, Rembrandt and Velasquez, the 60-strong collection is being reassembled in rooms restored to their exact 18th-century appearance by Walpole’s descendant Lord Cholmondeley.
The Hoste, a 17th-century coaching inn (whose one-time owner married Sir Robert’s grand-daughter) is located in the picturesque village of Burnham Market, just two miles from the coast. Now a boutique-style hotel with light, contemporary rooms, a cosy bar and a two AA-rosette restaurant, it is offering a two night break with luxury transport to and from Houghton Hall, a private talk and tour of the exhibition with an expert guide, refreshments and the chance to explore Houghton’s notable grounds and gardens. Dinner and breakfast at The Hoste both days is also included in the price of £260 per person.
Dates already announced are May 21-23, May 28-30, June 4-6 and June 11-13, with more being made available subject to demand. Each package is limited to 20 guests.
The Houghton Revisited exhibition runs from May 17-September 29.
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