Pokémon joins Hardwick's Summer of Play
Unleash your energy with the National Trust’s Summer of Play supported by Pokémon. Explore exciting zones filled with activities to entertain all ages.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
This summer there's a variety of Elizabethan themed activities to get stuck into. Don a costume and take to the stage in The Minstrels Court, make a tune on our music station, or challenge a friend in Champions Corner.
For the more competitive kids, watch them compete in races, hurdles, football, tennis and badminton. Or why not set up an archery competition and see if you can find the next Robin Hood.
There's lots for the little ones too in the Merry Meadow with soft play, Mud Kitchen, bug hotel, and chutes, perfect for young families or siblings wanting to play together.
On top of an already jam-packed Summer of Play, discover all-new Pokémon zones. Take on fun Pokémon Trading Card Game mini challenges inspired by some of your favourite Pokémon, flex your skills and collect Mega Evolution stickers! Get stuck into extra activities on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays:
• Tuesdays: workshops which include Minibeast Safari, Tudor Dance, and Family Writing Workshops. Additional charges may occur for these.
• Wednesdays: free craft activities with a different theme each week in the Summer of Play zone.
• Thursdays: On selected dates, join the Discover With Us team for natural crafts like wet felting and herb sachet making. These activities are free.
Dogs are not allowed in the main Summer of Play play area, but there is dog friendly seating towards the entrance point.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Meeting point
The activity zones will be the North Orchard, please proceed to Visitor reception as normal, who will be able to point you in the right direction.
- What to bring and wear
The activity zones are all outdoors, please dress for the great British weather! Wellies may be needed if visiting after heavy rainfall and suncream for those extra warm days.
- Other
Last entry is at 3.30pm, the gates will be closed at 4.15pm. 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 For more information on the additional events on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, please see our main events page.
Upcoming events
Dawn Sanctuary Yoga in the West Court
Enjoy an early morning yoga session in the West Court surrounded by the early summer flowers and the beautiful backdrop of Hardwick Hall
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!
Bess's Dream
This new display explores the memories that might have surfaced in Bess's dreams during her final days.
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.