February half term at Hardwick

Children playing on a fallen tree in woods

By February half term we're all ready to get outdoors, breathe in some fresh air and use up some energy. Hardwick Hall opens its doors to visitors once more so there'll be plenty to do both inside and out throughout the week.

Find our feathered friends

This is the best time of year to see the birds as the trees are still bare. Pick up a spotter sheet and see how many birds you can spot around the park, along Lady Spencer's Walk and down by the ponds. We've recently installed a new feeder outside the Visitor Centre too.

Make a home 

The first Sunday of half-term, come along to the Stableyard and join in with nest box building. The boxes will go up around the park and gardens to encourage a variety of birds to nest at Hardwick.   

Great tit perches on a lichen covered branch.
great tit perched on lichen covered branch
Great tit perches on a lichen covered branch.

Inspired crafts

There are a range of craft activities happening at dates throghout the week in the Serving Room, Below Stairs in the Hall. All the activities are inspired by our feathered friends. Take a look at the events listings for more details. 

There are a number of craft activities to get involved with across half-term
Children taking part in craft activities
There are a number of craft activities to get involved with across half-term

Wellies at the ready

Wellies are part of the kit at this time of year. Put them to good use on the welly walk which heads down Lady Spencer's Walk. After outdoor adventures, warm up with some tasty hot chocolate in the restaurant. 

Budding rangers

For older children with a keen interest in the outdoors, they might fancy a day trying out what it is like to be a Ranger. The Be a Ranger for the Day event gets you hands on, working with the Team out in the woods. Please note there is a charge for this event and is suitable for over 10s only, with under 16s needing to be accompanied by an adult.

Inside the house

The house opens to visitors in February half-term after a winter of cleaning. The much-acclaimed exhibition We are Bess reopens with some additional faces to spot hanging amongst the historical portraits in the Long Gallery. Don't forget to pop into the selfie booth. 

Look down at the plaited rush matting along the length of the Long Gallery - you can find out more about how it's made. Take a peep through the special hatch in the floor to see the bare bones of Hardwick.