Hardwick Hall
About This Museum
People come to Hardwick Hall for that iconic silhouette against the sky, but they leave talking about so much more. You step inside and are immediately surrounded by the most incredible textiles; it feels less like a museum and more like walking into a family home frozen in the late 1500s. The famous tapestries and needlework, some stitched by Bess of Hardwick herself, still glow with colour and tell stories in thread. It’s an overwhelming sensory experience that connects you directly to the formidable woman who built it.
Collection Highlights
The Gideon Tapestry is a true showstopper, but don't miss the intricate embroideries on bed hangings and cushions—they're some of the finest surviving examples from the period.
Visitor Information
It's just off the M1 in Doe Lea, making it a wonderfully accessible piece of history. Do check their website for opening times before you visit, as they can change with the seasons.
Architecture & Building
A revolutionary Elizabethan prodigy house famous for its 'more glass than wall' design, which was an absolute marvel of its time.
Contact & Location
Address: Doe Lea River Bridge, Erin Road, Poolsbrook, Staveley CP, Staveley, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, East Midlands, England, S43 3FX, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 1246 850430
Website: Visit Website
