Make the most of your day out at Hardwick

Hardwick Hall in the winter sun

Whether you’re visiting Hardwick for the first time, have been before or are a regular, we look forward to welcoming you. Discover an internationally recognised Elizabethan Hall, beautiful gardens and expansive countryside on your day out at Hardwick, Derbyshire.

It was the formidable 'Bess of Hardwick' who created Hardwick Hall in the 1500's and since then her descendants, farmers, gardeners, builders, decorators, embroiderers and craftsmen of all kinds have contributed and made Hardwick their creation. Today, we welcome you to explore Hardwick for yourself. See below our handy hints and tips to make the most of your day at this special place.

Opening Times

The Hall is now closed as we prepare for Christmas, the Hall will reopen again 23 November - 22 December, Wednesdays - Sundays, 11am - 3pm.

Children looking up at Christmas tree lights

Take a trip to Hardwick this Christmas 

Put a sparkle in your Christmas with a visit to Hardwick

Currently the Hall is undergoing a building conservation project, to restore the exterior sandstone face. Find out more about our stone masons and the work they are doing to restore this magnificent building while touring the roof. Roof tours currently taking place selected Mondays and Tuesdays throughout Winter.  

View of Hardwick Hall from the gatehouse

Discover the Hall at Hardwick  

Explore the house that Bess built in the 16th century and find beautiful Elizabethan tapestries.

Hardwick Hall with scaffolding - part of the conservation building project

Building repairs project 

The Hardwick building project includes important repairs and improvements to the external face of the sandstone house.

A winter walk in Hardwick's parkland

With beautiful views, abundant wildlife and a variety of walking paths to take, the parkland is a great place to explore at this time of year. Don't be afraid to pack the wellies and go splashing in the puddles. The ponds are a great place to spot some birds including ducks and herons or perhaps the more elusive kingfisher.

Children enjoying a muddy walk

Enjoy one of our seasonal walks 

Make the most of your visit with one of these refreshing walks around the estate.

A treat in the restaurant

After a long walk along Hardwick park why not take a break in the restaurant with a hot drink or a tasty treat. We have a wide variety on our autumn menu from seasonal hot meals to tasty cakes and scones.

A tray of freshly baked scones being brought out of the oven

The Great Barn Restaurant 

Discover the tasty treats and delicious seasonal meals at the Great Barn Restaurant.

Facilities and access

The restaurant, stables shop and toilets can be found in the Stableyard just beyond visitor reception. Mobility parking is in the main car park, 100 yards from visitor reception. As you arrive, accessible toilets can be found in the Stableyard. Wheelchair access to the ground floor of hall, gardens and Lady Spencer's Walk. Stairs to 2nd and 3rd floors. We have several all-terrain wheelchairs available to hire free of charge for use around Hardwick. Please talk to a member of the team at the Visitor Centre on arrival. Our buggy service runs from the Visitor Centre to the hall and gardens, throughout the day.