Festive Wintertide at Hardwick Hall

Hardwick Hall invites visitors to experience the magic of an Elizabethan Christmas with their Hardwick Wintertide event. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the grandeur of one of England's finest Elizabethan buildings, constructed by the formidable Bess of Hardwick (Elizabeth Shrewsbury), a woman of great power and vision. Known not only for Hardwick Hall but also for creating Chatsworth House, Bess was a key figure of her era, even a confidant of Queen Elizabeth I. You might also recognise the hall as the Malfoy residence in the Harry Potter films.

As you approach the hall, the imposing structure stands proudly against the winter landscape. After a cozy breakfast in the restaurant within the estate courtyard, our journey continued with a walk through the stunning gardens, guided by red ribbons and signs from the Lord of Misrule, the first of which set the scene… ‘On this dark winter’s day, something strange is afoot, the thread of time begins to fray, the Lord of Misrule comes out to play…So come weary travellers, come along all, come out of the cold and into Hardwick Hall’. 

We made our way into the main hall, where a festive table and rich history greeted us. The huge Shrewsbury coat of arms overlooks proudly set amidst tapestries and portraits. From here we were invited to the grand staircase where we each collected lanterns to guide our way; children were also given small lanterns to carry for their journey through the house.

Making our way up the staircase, we were once again introduced to the Lord of Misrule, with poetic signposts for visitors to read besides beautifully placed displays, all leading to the main sitting room; a place that Bess of Hardwick would have used to wow her guests. With its ridiculously high ceilings and stunning friezes depicting Greek mythology, this must have been such a wonder to any guests she received, and still evidently is looking around at fellow visitors’ reactions on the day.

From games in the sitting room to enjoy to festive wishes tied to a handmade tree, there's something for everyone to take in, all under the watchful eye of Queen Elizabeth I, who’s giant portrait adorns the room. The adjoining long gallery, filled with portraits from the Tudor and Elizabethan periods, including Bess’ own Granddaughter, Arbella, offers a glimpse into the past while the life size puppet theatre and dressing-up area delighted the children.

The journey through this stunning house ends with a visit to the servant's quarters and kitchens, where festive recipes and displays highlight the food that would have been served during Elizabethan celebrations. From here we took the Oak route walk and headed to Hardwick Old Hall, the former mansion at Hardwick and pre-dating the existing hall. The National Trust work alongside English Heritage in preserving this historical ruin as part of the estate.

As our visit drew to an end, we stopped by the charming gift shop housed in the old stables, offering seasonal and thoughtful gifts for all. A lovely final stop on our family day out.

Christmas at Hardwick Hall offers a truly magical experience, steeped in tradition and history. This stunning ancestral home invites visitors to step back in time, embracing the elegance and charm of Elizabethan Christmas celebrations. As you journey through the grand halls, steeped with rich heritage and beautifully decorated with festive touches, you'll be transported to a bygone era.

Wintertide, creates an atmosphere of warmth and nostalgia celebrating the Christmas season. Whether it's the captivating decorations or the storytelling of yesteryear, this experience is a beautiful way to take stock of the year gone by and look forward to the new year ahead with family and friends.

The Hardwick Wintertide event is available until January 5th, 2025, and is free for National Trust members, with standard entry fees for non-members.

Click here for more info.

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Late night openings

Hardwick Wintertide after hours is truly a spectacular experience. Delight in a mulled wine in the gardens and enjoy seeing the mansion in a whole new light. Save the dates:

• 29th & 30th November
• 6th & 7th December
• 13th & 14th December
• 20th & 21st December

There’s no need to book in advance as there will be free flow entry from 1pm - 8.30pm, with last entry at 7.45pm. The restaurant and gift shop will be open until 9pm on the late night opening days. It's the perfect place to stop for a hot chocolate and do some last minute Christmas shopping!
 

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Written by Anna Scott Business Development Executive at Visit Nottinghamshire