
Hardwick Hall Derbyshire
A breathtaking Elizabethan masterpiece famed for its 'more glass than wall' design and incredible tapestries. Also, the real Malfoy Manor!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Enjoy the gardens in bloom

Hardwick Hall Derbyshire
Best Time
Enjoy the gardens in bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Elizabethan masterpiece famed for its 'more glass than wall' design and incredible tapestries. Also, the real Malfoy Manor!
"Hardwick Hall is an absolute must visit and we cannot recommend it highly enough."

🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Dogs are welcome in the old hall ruins & grounds! Perfect for pet owners. :dog:
✨ Malfoy Manor Magic
Channel your inner wizard! The exterior is the real Malfoy Manor from Harry Potter. :magic_wand:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Hall Tapestries
Great Hall
Witness centuries-old tapestries depicting tales of wealth and power, remarkably preserved and still in situ.

Elizabethan Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the 'more glass than wall' design, a stunning example of Elizabethan Renaissance architecture.

Malfoy Manor's Real-Life Inspiration
Exterior
See the imposing exterior that served as the iconic Malfoy Manor in the Harry Potter films.

Old Hardwick Hall Ruins
Grounds
Explore the atmospheric ruins of the original manor house, a fascinating contrast to the main hall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'More Glass Than Wall' Marvel
Dog-Friendly Adventures Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Dogs are welcome in the old hall ruins & grounds! Perfect for pet owners.
:dog:✨ Malfoy Manor Magic
Channel your inner wizard! The exterior is the real Malfoy Manor from Harry Potter.
:magic_wand:🖼️ Tapestry Treasures
Don't miss the incredible tapestries; they're a highlight for many visitors.
:frame_photo:🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Allow ample time for the gardens and estate walks; they're extensive and beautiful.
:walking:Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Dogs are welcome in the old hall ruins & grounds! Perfect for pet owners.
:dog:✨ Malfoy Manor Magic
Channel your inner wizard! The exterior is the real Malfoy Manor from Harry Potter.
:magic_wand:🖼️ Tapestry Treasures
Don't miss the incredible tapestries; they're a highlight for many visitors.
:frame_photo:🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Allow ample time for the gardens and estate walks; they're extensive and beautiful.
:walking:☕ Refuel at the Cafe
The on-site cafe offers tasty treats like cheese scones.
:coffee:💡 Knowledgeable Volunteers
Chat with volunteers; they bring the history of Bess of Hardwick to life.
:bulb:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hardwick Hall for its stunning Elizabethan architecture, particularly the 'more glass than wall' design and the magnificent, well-preserved tapestries. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, along with the beautiful gardens and dog-friendly policy, are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some find the historical depth and Bess of Hardwick's story particularly captivating.
"Visited Hardwick Hall with my girlfriend and we had an absolutely fantastic day. Built in the late 1500s, the house has amazing Elizabethan architecture, with huge windows that flood the rooms with light. Inside, we were captivated by the extraordinary collection of tapestries, some of the oldest in the country still hanging where they were first placed over four centuries ago. They are remarkably well preserved showing stories of wealth, power and artistry. The gardens were fantastic, offering peaceful pathways, bursts of colour and beautiful views of the Derbyshire countryside. The staff we spoke to were friendly, engaging and brimming with knowledge, making the history come alive. Hardwick Hall is an absolute must visit and we cannot recommend it highly enough."
Dan Warman
"Fantastic to look around. Amazing house and gardens, easily able to spend a full day there and more. I could just look at the tapestries for days! Well worth a visit if you're into history or just beautiful places."
Rob BikeBob
"Amazing staff/volunteers making sure your visit is :) I wish I had noted the name of the lovely lady at the visitors centre who went through the areas I and the dogs could visit.
The old hall, gardens and estate are brilliant. We loved our visit ❤️"
HMC McCaffery
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hardwick Hall is conveniently located just off M1 junction 29 in Derbyshire.
Ample parking is available on-site. For those using public transport, local bus services connect to nearby towns, but checking schedules in advance is recommended.Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Hardwick Hall.
Some visitors mention parking outside the grounds for free and walking in, but official parking is readily accessible.While driving is the most convenient, it is possible to reach Hardwick Hall via public transport. Local buses serve the Chesterfield area, and from there, you can connect to routes closer to the hall. It's advisable to check National Express or local bus company timetables for the most up-to-date information.
The National Trust aims to make its properties accessible. While the main hall has some limitations due to its historic nature, the grounds and gardens are generally accessible. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most current accessibility information before your visit.
The nearest train stations are in Chesterfield and Sheffield. From these stations, you would typically need to take a bus or taxi to reach Hardwick Hall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply for non-National Trust members. If you are a National Trust member, entry is free.
It's recommended to check the official National Trust website for the most current ticket prices and opening hours.Booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak visiting times, to ensure entry and potentially save time. Check the National Trust website for their specific booking policy.
Hardwick Hall typically closes at 5 PM.
However, opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events, so it's always best to confirm the exact times on the National Trust website before your visit.National Trust members gain free entry.
Look out for potential family tickets or group discounts on the National Trust website. Special events may have separate ticketing.Typically, access to the gardens and grounds is included with your admission to Hardwick Hall. If you are a National Trust member, this access is free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the magnificent Elizabethan hall with its stunning tapestries, wander through the beautiful gardens, and discover the ruins of the Old Hardwick Hall.
The site offers a rich historical experience, including insights into Bess of Hardwick's life.Absolutely! The imposing exterior of Hardwick Hall was used as the filming location for Malfoy Manor in 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1'.
Many fans find it easy to imagine Draco and Lucius Malfoy living there.Photography is generally permitted inside Hardwick Hall for personal use, but flash photography is usually not allowed to protect the delicate tapestries and interiors. Always check for specific signage or ask staff if unsure.
Hardwick Hall often has knowledgeable volunteers on hand who can share fascinating historical details.
Special events, like the 'Wintertide' experience, may include guided tours by lantern light. Check the National Trust website for any scheduled tours during your visit.The Old Hardwick Hall refers to the ruins of the original manor house that stood on the estate before Bess of Hardwick built the current hall. It offers a glimpse into earlier architecture and is a popular spot for exploration, even allowing dogs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on-site at Hardwick Hall offering the usual National Trust selection of food and drinks.
Visitors have praised their tasty cheese scones and coffee.Picnic areas are often available at National Trust properties, allowing visitors to bring their own food. It's best to check the specific rules for Hardwick Hall regarding picnics, especially regarding designated areas.
The cafe typically offers a range of light meals, snacks, cakes, and hot and cold beverages. Popular items include scones and sandwiches.
National Trust cafes usually offer vegetarian options, and increasingly, vegan choices are becoming available. It's advisable to check the menu on the day of your visit or inquire with the cafe staff.
The cafe generally focuses on lighter fare, such as sandwiches, soups, and baked goods. For a full sit-down meal, you might need to look at dining options in nearby towns like Chesterfield.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the hall, especially with its grand windows and towers, is iconic.
The gardens offer beautiful scenic shots, and the ruins of Old Hardwick Hall provide a dramatic backdrop. For Harry Potter fans, capturing the Malfoy Manor facade is a must.Tripods are generally not permitted inside historic houses like Hardwick Hall to avoid damage to interiors and to ensure smooth visitor flow. Always check specific rules on-site.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife, heritage, and visitor privacy. It's highly unlikely that drone photography is permitted without prior special permission.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for exterior shots. Midday light can be harsh but highlights the vast glass windows.
Consider overcast days for softer, more even lighting, especially for capturing tapestry details.Yes, the exterior of Hardwick Hall is the primary photo opportunity for Harry Potter fans, as it served as Malfoy Manor.
Try to capture it from various angles to get that imposing feel.For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🧙♂️ Harry Potter Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Bess of Hardwick
Bess's influence extended beyond her personal wealth; she was a close confidante of Queen Elizabeth I. Her legacy is one of remarkable achievement and enduring style, making Hardwick Hall a testament to her extraordinary life. The hall was built between 1590 and 1597, showcasing her immense power and status during a time when women had limited opportunities.
Visitors can learn more about Bess's fascinating life through the knowledgeable volunteers and the historical displays within the hall. Her story is woven into the very fabric of Hardwick Hall, offering a compelling narrative of ambition, resilience, and architectural innovation.
Architectural Marvel: 'More Glass Than Wall'
The extensive use of glass was not only aesthetically striking but also a symbol of wealth and status. Bess of Hardwick wanted her home to be a statement of her power and sophistication. The sheer scale of the windows allowed for grand, light-filled rooms, perfect for displaying her impressive collection of tapestries and needlework.
This architectural approach was quite revolutionary for its time and set a precedent for future country house designs. The visual impact of Hardwick Hall, with its imposing facade and luminous interiors, continues to captivate visitors today, offering a tangible connection to the architectural ambitions of the Tudor period.
The Harry Potter Connection: Malfoy Manor
Visitors often remark on how easily they can picture Lucius and Draco Malfoy inhabiting the estate, adding a layer of magical intrigue to their visit. The dramatic silhouette of Hardwick Hall against the sky evokes the dark magic and pure-blood legacy associated with the Malfoy family. It's a popular spot for fans to recreate scenes or simply soak in the atmosphere of their favorite fictional location.
While the interior of Hardwick Hall is filled with historical treasures like tapestries, the exterior is where the Malfoy Manor magic truly comes alive for many visitors. It's a unique blend of historical grandeur and cinematic fantasy that appeals to a wide range of visitors.
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