Saturday 1 March 2014

Hardwick Hall

For those amongst us who love Downton Abbey or are avid readers of classical English fiction set in huge sprawling mansions this post is for you. 

Hardwick Hall

For those of you who the above does not apply don't worry the beautiful English countryside has some wonderful things to offer you too and I am sure you will like this post just as much

England this winter has had quite a battering with the rain and awful storms, so when last weekend we had a glimmer of sunshine I donned my wellies, wrapped up warm and was out of the house quicker than my feet could touch the floor. 

The East Midlands has some wonderful country estates that are beautifully preserved and looked after Hardwick HallChatsworth House and Clumber Park to name but a few.

I have often wondered what it would be like to live in a grand stately home, in plush surroundings, embracing my inner lady of the manor and having Mr Carson catering to my every whim. 

Unfortunately I wasn't born into Royalty so realising this dream is unlikely, visiting a stately home is the next best thing. 

Hardwick Hall has a stunning house and is set in a beautiful landscape.

Hardwick Hall
Hardwick Hall


Hardwick Hall

The house, gardens and old ruins are beautiful and you can easily while away a few hours wandering round them. 

I especially like the gardens which you enter through an enchanted gate...

Hardwick Hall


This chap reminds me of a character that you would find in The Chronicles of Narnia.

Garden Hardwick Hall

Some evil witch having turned him to stone. They even have their own mushroom tree. 

Beautiful gardens

The old ruins are amazing you can climb right to the top and whilst climbing you can imagine what this wonderful house used to look like long ago. 


The views as you get higher get more spectacular what a view. 


The best view is saved till last. 

After a fun day spent gallivanting all this fresh air has built up an appetite. So it is off to the local pub for a lovely ploughman's lunch. Thank you Hardwick Hall for another lovely day. 

Hardwick Inn

Hardwick Inn


For opening times of Hardwick Hall check here 

Doe Lea, 
Chesterfield, 
Derbyshire, 
S44 5QJ

Telephone: 01246850430 

Email: hardwickhall@nationaltrust.org.uk



 photo foodieforce_32.jpg

10 comments:

  1. I've been to Chatsworth before but not Hardwick Hall. I really want to though, those views are stunning! xx

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    1. I love Chatsworth too but have to wait for it to get. Little bit warmer before I vist there. Love nothing more than paddling in the cascading water fountain Lucy x

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  2. The grounds and the views are stunning.
    Angie
    SilverSpoon London

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    1. They are beautiful I love National Trust and English Hereitage premises they look after the properties and gardens really well Lucy

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  3. The gardens are always so immaculate; beautiful. Love the photo looking out the window (4th from bottom of post)! Hope you've had a lovely weekend :-)

    x Roch & Tash x
    www.next-route-style.blogspot.co.uk

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    1. Wouldn't you love a view like that from your bedroom window I know I would Lucy x

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  4. Brilliant! Both my parents work for English Heritage (and one of my little brothers just got a part time job at one of their properties too) so we have had so many days out all over the country to some amazing places. x

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    1. What a great job means that you get to see some wonderful properties all the time x

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  5. I love Downton Abbey, but the last season was a bit naff! I would love to visit these halls. =)

    Corinne x
    www.skinnedcartree.com

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    1. I love the grand houses. Hope you have had a good week Lucy x

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