Sir Robert Walpole

Britain's first Prime Minister spent his formative years at Houghton Hall, a grand Palladian mansion just outside King's Lynn. Sir Robert Walpole's legacy is everywhere here - in the architecture, the art collection, the very bones of the place. You're walking through the rooms where one of history's most powerful politicians actually lived and worked, which is rather extraordinary when you think about it.

The hall itself is the main draw, obviously. The state rooms are properly impressive - high ceilings, serious paintings, furniture that belonged to actual important people. If you're interested in 18th-century political history or just fancy a decent stately home, it's worth the trip. Less compelling if you're after a quick splash around and an ice cream, mind you. Walkers might combine it with the surrounding parkland, though the grounds aren't anything particularly special compared to Norfolk's other big estates.

Family groups with teenagers studying British history will get genuine value. Younger kids will find it a bit heavy going unless they're unusually keen on grand rooms and portraits. The nearby Sandringham Camping and Caravanning Club Site, just six miles away, makes a convenient base if you're treating this as part of a broader Norfolk holiday.

Check locally in King's Lynn about current opening arrangements and admission costs before you go - these historic houses can be temperamental about their visiting hours. Allow a solid couple of hours if you're doing the full tour.