Hardwick Hall at Hardwick Estate
Like a huge glass lantern, Hardwick Hall (owned by the National Trust) dominates the surrounding area - a magnificent statement of the wealth and authority of its builder, Elizabeth Countess of Shrewsbury or 'Bess of Hardwick'. Designed by Robert Smythson, the house is remarkable for being almost unchanged since Bess lived here, giving a rare insight into the formality of courtly life of the Elizabethan age.
There are outstanding collections of 16th Century embroidery, tapestries, furniture and portraits. Walled courtyards enclose fine gardens, orchards and a large herb garden, and the surrounding parkland contains rare breeds of cattle and sheep.
In the grounds are the remains of Hardwick Old Hall, which Bess continued to use after her new house was built.
Before leaving enjoy a delicious meal in the Great Kitchen Restaurant and pick up a gift from the Shop.
There is a ramped entrance to the Hall and the ground floor is accessible to wheelchair users. Alternatively, a virtual tour is available on a computer on the ground floor. Wheelchairs are available, booking essential.
Braille and large-print guide available. Braille menu in restaurant. Induction loop in reception, shop, restaurant and Stone Centre. Staff trained to assist hard of hearing and visually impaired visitors.
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Prices
Hall and Garden - adult £10.50, children (5-16 years) £5.25 under 5s free, family ticket £26.25, National Trust members free.
Garden Only - Adult £5.30, children (5-16 years) £2.65, under 5s free, family ticket £13.25. National Trust members free.
Includes voluntary 10% donation which will be put towards the restoration and up keep of this property. Visitors can however, choose to pay the standard admission.
Opening details
| Season Dates | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Wed 17 Feb 2010 - Sun 31 Oct 2010 | Wed - Sun 11:00 to 16:30 |
| Sat 4 - Sun 19 Dec 2010 | Sat - Sun 11:00 to 15:00 |
Contact
EnquiriesTel: 01246 850430
hardwickhall@nationaltrust.org.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick
email a friend
Nearby
Local AccommodationVenue
Hardwick EstateHardwick Hall, Doe Lea, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S44 5QJ
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick
Map reference: SK 467646
Hardwick Hall is approx 2 miles from junction 29 of M1 motorway
From North/South
Leave M1 motorway at junction 29 and take A6175 (signposted Clay Cross). Take first turning on left (following brown signs for Hardwick Hall). Follow road for approx 1 mile and turn left passing underneath M1 motorway. Follow road past Stainsby Mill and turn right onto Hardwick Estate. Follow brown signs to car park.
From East
Follow A617 to junction with M1 motorway and take 2nd exit at roundabout (A6175), then follow route from North/South.
From West
Follow A619 to Chesterfield. At traffic light controlled roundabout (B&Q) select middle lane and take 3rd exit. Keep in left lane and at traffic lights go straight on. At roundabout select right lane and take 3rd exit. At next roundabout (traffic light controlled) select left lane and take 2nd exit (A617). Stay on A617 to M1 motorway junction (approx 4 miles) and, at roundabout select right lane and take 5th exit (A6175, signposted Clay Cross). Then follow route from North/South.
Parking : with charge
Nearest station : 8 miles from Chesterfield station
Disabled toilets available in main car park and at Park Centre
Also at this venue
Stainsby Mill
Hardwick Park
Hardwick Stone Centre
Hardwick Hall Gardens
