Hardwick Hall

With 2,500 acres of parkland to explore, this walk leads you on a three-mile loop, with views of Hardwick Hall from the far side of the valley.

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How to get there

8 miles south-east of Chesterfield, via A6175. Leave M1 exit 29 and follow the brown road signs.

Explore the magnificent Hardwick Hall and its extensive, historic estate in Derbyshire, a stunning Elizabethan "prodigy house" famously described as "Hardwick Hall, more glass than wall," now meticulously managed by the National Trust. This walk allows you to discover the beautiful parkland, formal gardens (where permitted), and ancient woodlands surrounding one of Britain's greatest and most architecturally significant historic houses. Hardwick Hall, built by the formidable Bess of Hardwick in the late 16th century, stands proudly overlooking the Derbyshire countryside, and its vast estate offers varied walking with lovely views and a deep sense of history. This Derbyshire gem is a premier heritage attraction.

An extensive network of well-maintained paths and tracks leads you through the Hardwick estate. You can explore the formal gardens and orchards (entry to the Hall and these specific areas usually requires National Trust admission), walk through the wider parkland which is often grazed by rare breed cattle and sheep, discover ancient woodlands with veteran trees, and enjoy views of both the "new" Hardwick Hall and the romantic ruins of Old Hardwick Hall (Bess's earlier home, also on the estate). The estate offers many miles of waymarked trails for longer walks in this historic part of Derbyshire, with routes to suit various abilities.

• Discover the stunning parkland, gardens, and estate of Hardwick Hall, a major National Trust property in Derbyshire.
• Explore historic gardens, extensive rolling parkland with ancient trees, and beautiful woodland walks.
• Enjoy views of the iconic Elizabethan Hardwick Hall and the atmospheric ruins of Old Hardwick Hall.
• Enjoy well-maintained paths suitable for families and varied walking abilities in this significant Derbyshire heritage landscape.

Walks within the Hardwick Hall estate can range from 1-2 miles exploring the gardens (if an NT visitor) and immediate parkland near the house, to longer and more invigorating 4-6 mile waymarked estate walks that take in more of the woodland, farmland, and wider Derbyshire countryside views. This Derbyshire estate offers a full day of discovery.

Walk

1 From the walk start point, follow the red marked route around the estate.

Grid Reference: SK 464 634
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