Discover more at Hardwick
Find out when Hardwick is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Exploring the parkland at Hardwick
Enjoy watching the changing seasons come to pass, from misty mornings to frosty winter days. Don’t forget to follow the journey of the Hardwick trees to see the colours change and leaves begin to drop.
The parkland at Hardwick
The Hardwick Estate surrounding the magnificent Hall, covers around 2,500 acres of parkland and includes a variety of habitats from woodland and wetland to farmland.
Many layers of history make the park a fascinating place to visit. Visit the restored Duck Decoy and Ice House, both of which helped to supply the Hall in past times.
Walking routes and group walks
There’s plenty of walking routes to try around the wider estate at Hardwick. From shorter dog walks around Lady Spencer's Woods to wider Estate walks across the parkland and beyond. You'll be rewarded with some spectacular views, gently framed by an abundance of veteran trees.
- The Sculpture Walk
- Discover the craftmanship of the Hardwick Masons as you follow the new sculptures along the trail.Find out more about the route
Dovedale Farm tree planting project
We’re working in partnership with Greenwood Community Forest to create new woodland and to connect rare and important habitats at Dovedale Farm on the Hardwick Estate. We plan to plant 12,191 trees from January to March 2025 to support the National Trust’s climate action commitments of planting 20 million trees by 2030.
Improving and increasing habitats
We have an opportunity to enhance wildlife spaces at Dovedale Farm to diversify our flora and fauna.
Once tree planting is complete we hope to see more woodland, wood pastures, hedgerows, wet woodland, open spaces and woody scrubs. As well as connecting existing nature corridors and creating space for natural regeneration.
Creating new visitor areas
In March 2025, the community orchard and wildflower meadow will be planted, creating a visitor picnic zone. To accompany this new space, our plan is to eventually connect Dovedale Farm and Lady Spencer’s Wood through a circular footpath.
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Group Walks at Hardwick
Embark on a journey of exploration, friendship and fitness with our guided group walks.
Visiting Hardwick with your dog
Hardwick is a three pawprint rated place, and offers plenty of opportunities for bounding, jumping and sniffing for dogs. With acres to explore, come and join us for a wander.
The history of Hardwick Hall
Read how wealth, power and ambition drove Bess of Hardwick to build her grand design, filled with a treasure trove of fine furnishings that can still be seen at the Hall today.
Discover Hardwick Hall
Hardwick Hall is the legacy of a woman who had the vision, wealth and sheer audacity to commission a house that shouts innovation from the rooftops.
Eating and shopping at Hardwick
Enjoy tasty food and drink in the Great Barn restaurant or browse in the gift shop. Both are located within a historic setting at Hardwick.
Countryside and woodland
Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.
Countryside and woodland in the Peak District and Derbyshire
Find out about the extensive countryside and woodland places to explore in the Peak District and Derbyshire, from rugged peaks to wide expanses of moorland.
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
