From Hunting Lodge to Country Seat

The creation of a grand staircase in the 17th century reflected the arrival of new owners at Houghton - for the Bruce family, the house was their main country seat and was occupied all year round.

The entrance porch at Houghton House.  © English Heritage Previously the house was only occupied during the summer months. As the main residence of the Bruce family, the house needed to accommodate a larger household and be warm in winter, as well as reflect their status.  

The loggia at Houghton House. © English Heritage
 As a hunting lodge, the original staircases were located in the corner turrets of the house.  The Bruce family needed a ceremonial route between the hall and the great chamber above so they inserted a grand staircase in the Stone Hall. The staircase was made of elaborately carved wood. The decorative plaster work, including niches at mezzanine level are still visible.

The original staircases would have become either private or service stairs. When the house was dismantled in the late 18th century, the great stair was moved to the Swan Hotel in Bedford where it can still be seen.