Discover With Us: Craft Activities & Demonstrations
Visit the East Stables for natural crafts and demonstrations throughout the day.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Drop in to the East Stables for crafts and demonstrations centred on different themes throughout the year.
Themes:
• Tuesday 26 & Thursday 28 May: Craft friendship bracelets and send it your nearest and dearest in an origami envelope.
• Wednesday 29 July: Herb sachets and plant essence still demonstrations.
• Thursday 13 August: Wet felting flowers and woad tie dye.
• Wednesday 26 August: Handmade paper making activity for our Wintertide 2026 display and/or paper craft activity to take home.
• Saturday 12 September: Still and natural dye demonstrations for Heritage Craft Days.
• Tuesday 27 October: Willow wreaths and cordage made from plants, for our Wintertide 2026 displays. Or have a go at apple printing.
• Thursday 29 October: Paper decorations to be used in our Wintertide 2026 displays, or have a go at apple printing.
There will be craft activities suitable for all ages, children must be accompanied by an adult.
For non-members of the National Trust, or visitors without a general admission ticket to the House and Gardens, the Wider Estate admission fees apply:
• Adult: £6.00
• Child: £3.00
• Family (2 adults, 2 children): £15.00
• Family (1 adult, 2 children): £9.00
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Accessibility
There are accessible toilets, a changing place, tramper/wheelchair for hire (free to use, donations are welcome) and parking at the Stableyard where the activity stations are located. The crafts take place on the ground floor.
- Meeting point
The East Stables is in the Stableyard next to the Second Hand Bookshop.
- Suitability for children
Children welcome
- What to bring and wear
Please dress for the Great British weather as there are no heating or cooling facilities in the East Stables!
Upcoming events
Hardwick Navigation Festival
Hosted by Derwent Valley Orienteers, use a map and a timing chip to find your way between the checkpoints. You can run or walk, in groups or on your own. There are 5 navigation challenges to suit all ages and abilities!
Bess: unframing the family
Following conservation and analysis, several family portraits return to the collection. Discover what new insights can be found beneath their surface.
Bess's Dream
This new display explores the memories that might have surfaced in Bess's dreams during her final days.
Guided by Nature: Bird Walk for Beginners
Join Hardwick’s bird enthusiasts for a summertime bird walk.