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Stranger Folk at Hardwick

A crack has formed between our world and the spirit world, and all sorts of old folklore creatures have escaped. Download the Stanger Folk app and help Old Mal close the gap between worlds.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Oh no! A crack has formed between our world and the spirit world, and all sorts of old British folklore creatures have escaped. It looks like they only have one thing on their mind, to eat all of Hardwick’s scrumptious cakes and bakes!

Download the free Stranger Folk app, available on The App Store and Google Play, to communicate with Old Mal, the crone who will lead you on your journey at Hardwick. Old Mal, has been around for 130 years and knows a thing or two about the best ways to banish the ‘Stranger Folk’, follow her directions carefully to seal the crack between worlds before it’s too late.

To take part, head to Visitor Reception to solve the riddle which will act as a password to the app and will start your adventure at Hardwick.

Please note that app is for outdoor use only. This app can be used in conjunction with a House and Gardens ticket for use in the garden, or a Wider Estate ticket for use in the parkland, for non-members of the National Trust. Please be respectful of the historic features and buildings on the estate and gardens.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Booking details

Booking not needed, app can be downloaded at Hardwick or at home.

Suitability

Suitable for children over 7.

Meeting point

Our friendly team at Visitor Reception will be able to direct you to the nearby start point and help with downloading the app if required.

What to bring and wear

A smart phone is all you need. This app is for outdoor use only so please dress for the Great British Weather!

Accessibility

This app includes a transcript, we recommend this app for children aged 7-12, please be aware that it does contain a scary section in the middle. Visitors can choose the activities to suit them, and the app can be used by wheelchair users or visitors with push chairs. Accessible parking is to the front of the car park and accessible facilities are available including a Changing Places toilet.

Upcoming events

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Event summary

on
4 Oct to 31 Oct 2025
at
11:00 to 15:30
+ 27 other dates or times

Walk With Us: Wider Estate Walks 

Discover Hardwick’s longer walking routes on a free guided group walk around the estate. With 7 different walks to choose from, sign up to one or challenge yourself to complete them all!

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on
7 Oct to 30 Oct 2025
at
10:30 to 13:00
+ 7 other dates or times

Apple Day Story Trail 

Follow OId Mal’s tale of Apple Jack in the Orchard and zig zag your way through the trees, piecing together the story along your travels.

Event summary

on
18 Oct to 2 Nov 2025
at
09:00 to 18:00
+ 15 other dates or times

Create With Us: Storyfolk | Apple Day Stories 

Join in and listen to the age-old traditions of storytelling to celebrate Apple Day.

Event summary

on
19 Oct 2025
at
10:30 to 11:00
+ 5 other dates or times