National Trust Hardwick & Stainsby Mill

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National Trust Hardwick & Stainsby Mill

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Welcome to Hardwick and Stainsby Mill, whose stunning houses and beautiful landscape have been created by a cast of thousands.
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Find out what you can discover at Hardwick by visiting www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick It was the formidable Bess of Hardwick who first created Hardwick in the late 1500s. In the centuries since then her descendants, farmers, gardeners, builders, decorators, embroiderers and craftsmen of all kinds have contributed and made Hardwick their creation. We want you to explore and enjoy Hardwick and in the process discover the lives, loves and adventures of the creators of Hardwick.

01/11/2026

From tomorrow (2 November) we'll be moving to our winter opening hours, which means it's officially cosy season.

Stroll through the gardens and parkland, grab a hot drink and treat, pop into the shop or pick up the perfect read in our second-hand book shop. Please check our website for the new opening times before your visit.

✨The Hall will be temporarily closed between 2-16 November while our amazing team work their magic to transform the rooms for Wintertide. It launches on the 17th and we can't wait. Watch this space as more details will follow.... ✨

31/10/2026

Want to discover a little more about Hardwick's lesser known history?

Join us for a FREE guided walk this Remembrance Day, 11 November, to learn more about the estate's connections to the Second World War.

The 'Secrets of the Camp' walk will give an insight into the stories around Hardwick's former Paratroopers Camp, pictured here as it once was. While the buildings are no longer there, our guide will show you around the parkland and retell the tales of the estate's wartime past.

The walk takes place:
📅 Wednesday 11 November 2026
⏰ 10.45am - 1.15pm
📍 Visitor Welcome Building, Hardwick Hall

Booking is essential. There are limited spaces, so please reserve your free place by checking out the events page on our website.

30/10/2026

It’s been quite the week at Hardwick! Last weekend's storm left its mark and it's sure kept our teams busy.

The rangers have been out clearing footpaths and trails, dealing with fallen branches and checking out the well-being of its of the estate's veteran trees. Meanwhile, the garden team has cleared away any signs of the storm and the amazing volunteers have swept up carpets of autumn leaves from the grounds.

The estate may have been battered by the strong winds, but it's certainly back in shape again and ready for those autumn walks again.

🔗 Want to know more about the estate's trees? Our Area Ranger will be leading a guided by nature walk on 2 December, where you can learn more about the estate's trees and how veteran weather-worn trees play a vital role in the environment. More details are in the link in the comments below.

27/10/2026

What a difference a day makes! After yesterday’s rain, the sun has made a return.

If you're looking to get out of the house this half-term, there's plenty of activities lined up at Hardwick this week including:
• Hallowtide half-term outdoor activities and games | through to 1 Nov
• Pikachu Art Adventure trail | until 1 Nov
• Stranger Folk Trail | until 1 Nov
• Apple Jack Story Trail in the orchard | until 1 Nov
• Seasonal Craft Workshops | 27 & 29 Oct
• Hallowtide Storytelling with Storyfolk | 30 Oct

🌧️And if the rain returns? Why not head indoors, explore the hall and then round off the day in the Great Barn restaurant for hot chocolate and treats.

26/10/2026

Good news! Hardwick will be opening as normal today.

Our teams were out late yesterday afternoon and again this morning carrying out post-storm safety checks, clearing fallen branches and tidying up debris. Thanks to their hard work, everything is ready to welcome everyone back for the new week.

We're all set for Hallowtide half-term activities. We look forward to seeing you!

24/10/2026

HARDWICK CLOSURE: SUNDAY 25 OCTOBER

Due to the weather warning issued by the Met Office, the whole of Hardwick and its estate will be closed tomorrow (Sunday 25 October).

We anticipate a delayed opening on Monday to allow post-storm checks to be carried out. Please check our website before travelling.

20/10/2026

Have you ever wanted to get up close to Hardwick Hall's historic tapestries and collections? Here's your chance!

Discover the wonders of Blackwork Natural Dyeing and Embroidery during our two-part workshop on Saturday 21 November and Saturday 28 November.

You'll get alook at Hardwick's tapestries and embroidery, be inspired by the details and history, learn the art of natural black dyeing, and create your own design.

Spaces are limited. Book your place via our website: https://rebrand.ly/BDEWorkshop

19/10/2026

Thanks to an eagle-eyed visitor a fascinating new discovery has been made here at Hardwick.

Hidden away in the shadows of one of the hall's corridors, an historic witch's mark has been spotted. The mark, known as an apotropaic symbol, was typically carved in buildings back in the 16th and 17th centuries near entrances. Their aim was to protect people from evil spirits.

The find has reminded us that there is still so much more to discover about Hardwick. Keep an eye out next time you visit, who knows what you might spot and what other hidden stories could be revealed!

17/10/2026

✨And so the countdown to Christmas at Hardwick begins... ✨

Can you believe it's only one month to go until the doors open to this year's Wintertide? Join us between 17 November and 5 January and step into an Elizabethan themed festive season.

This year promises to be a little different. You'll begin your journey in the busy kitchens as the Elizabethan household prepares for days of revelry and feasting. Explore the hall by lantern light, admire the handcrafted decorations and greenery, and join the trail to hunt down the family's lost pearls.

Look out for the special evening opening hours and events that include Wintertide Storytelling, Folk Carols and festive performances from the Three Inch Fools. PLUS we have some very special Wintertide workshops. Visit our website for all the details.

We can't wait to welcome you to Wintertide at Hardwick!

Address

Hardwick Hall
Chesterfield
S445QJ

Telephone

+441246850430

Website

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hardwick

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