Make the most of your day out at Hardwick

Hardwick visitors exploring the evidence room

Explore the three floors of the Hall (open Wednesdays - Sundays) or discover the wider estate including beautiful walks in the parkland, a meal in the restaurant or gifts in the Stables Shop.

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

Hardwick Hall: Wednesdays - Sundays 11am - 3pm (Toured viewing between 11am - 12pm)
Stables Shop: Daily 10am - 5pm
Great Barn Restaurant: Daily 9am - 5pm
Garden: Daily 10am - 4pm.

The Old Hall (run by English Heritage) is closed. The shop and exhibition area are open at various times, please see the Engligh Heritage website for further details.

Uncovering the historic collections

This year we're shining a spotlight on the historic and significant collections at Hardwick and the stories each one tells. From portraits and ceramics to carpets or tapestries, some from as early as the 16th-century. Discover how they came to be at Hardwick.
We'll focus on a new piece each week, so you'll be sure to find out something new each time you return.

A – Z of Hardwick Collections

This year we're going through our A-Z of collections, shining a spotlight on the historic and significant objects at Hardwick and the stories each one tells.

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.

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 winter menu from seasonal hot meals to tasty cakes and scones and a kids menu too.

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

Hardwick's Great Barn Restaurant

Open every day, the Great Barn Restaurant has all manner of tasty treats and dishes to tempt you.

Pick up a gift for yourself or a loved one

See the variety of homeware, tasty treats, garden accessories and many more available to explore in our shop. At the moment, explore the variety of potted spring bulbs that could find a new home in your garden.

Discover wonderful gifts and treats in our shop

Our shop has a range of tempting seasonal and locally-sourced treats and, even better, all profits go back into the conservation of this special place.

Special events to choose from

Keep your eyes peeled for special events or programming to enjoy, like our free Propagation tours. Or experience what it is like to be part of the house and collections team at Hardwick on a Conservation Experience Day, 17 and 31 March.

Conservation Experience Day

Experience what it is like to be part of the house and collections team at Hardwick.

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.