Hugh Walpole (1884–1941) was an English author, best known for his novels, short stories, and plays. He achieved significant success in the early 20th century and was a prolific writer. Walpole's works spanned various genres, including literary fiction, historical novels, and horror.

Walpole gained prominence as a writer in the 1910s and 1920s. He is particularly known for his Rogue Herries series, which includes historical novels set in the Lake District. His first novel, The Wooden Horse (1909), established him as a writer of promise, but it was Herries that brought him widespread recognition.

While Walpole is most famous for his historical fiction, he also wrote ghost stories and supernatural fiction, demonstrating versatility. His novel The Dark Forest (1923), for example, is a psychological thriller with elements of gothic horror. Walpole was adept at creating atmospheric and suspenseful narratives.

Throughout his career, Walpole enjoyed significant commercial success. He was a member of the literary establishment, enjoying popularity with both critics and readers. He was even a regular broadcaster on the BBC, which contributed to his public profile. He was appointed as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1937, recognizing his contributions to literature.

Although Walpole’s works were widely read in his time, his literary reputation faded somewhat after his death. Nevertheless, he remains an important figure in early 20th-century English literature, particularly for his contributions to psychological fiction and his atmospheric, often dark tales. His works are still appreciated by fans of vintage British fiction and horror literature.