Hardwick Hall

Itineraries

Castles, Markets & Spires

Explore the lesser-known North East of Derbyshire, near Chesterfield.




About

If you're fascinated by history, North East Derbyshire is bursting with gems to explore, ranging from fascinating Ice Age caves and caverns to a stunning stately home, a hilltop castle and one of Derbyshire's finest markest towns.

Itinerary Schedule

1
Bolsover Castle 9 1899074440
Day One

Explore the 'pleasure palace' of Bolsover Castle

Kick off your trip with a visit to English Heritage's Bolsover Castle, a 17th century mansion built on the site of a Norman fortress and explore the charming and spectacular interiors. Be transported to lost age of aristocratic extravagance as you discover lavishly decorated rooms, the astonishing riding school and the wonderfully recreated garden. Hear tales from the past from costumed storytellers, roam the ruined Terrace Range and take in the stunning countryside views from the restored wall walk.

Families will love the interactive exhibition in the stables, and kids can let their imaginations run wild in the castle-themed play area next to the café.

2
Chesterfield Market 2
Day One

Chesterfield Market

Spend the afternoon in Chesterfield, where you can explore one of the largest open air markets in the country – there's a great range of goods available, as well as regular specialist markets, flea markets and Farmers' Markets.

3
Pomegrante Show Side 2051096817
Day One

Head to the theatre

To round off your day, book a performance at Chesterfield's Pomegranate – one of the oldest in the country – which plays host to professional as well as local theatre companies.

Finish your evening in Chesterfield which is full of great places to eat and drink where you can explore the globe by cuisine, or stay true to Derbyshire with something tasty and local! Overnight in Chesterfield where there's also a great range of accommodation options too from hotels, B&Bs, self-catering, and Camping and Caravanning a little further out of the town.

4
Chesterfield Crooked Spire 1
Day One

Chesterfield Crooked Spire

If you're feeling fit, don't forget to take the opportunity to climb the 144 steps to the top of the tower of the ‘Crooked Spire’ for stunning views out over the town. A hand-held audio tour of town centre is available from Chesterfield Tourist Information Centre.

5
1 View Hardwick NT Andrew Butler new 2023779866
Day Two

Hardwick Hall

After a scrummy breakfast head to Hardwick Hall, constructed in the 1500s by the formidable 'Bess of Hardwick', thought to have been one of the most powerful women in the country at the time. After a morning of exploring the house and gardens have lunch in the exquisite cafe on site.

If all of that isn't enough for you, then there's more than 300 acres of historic parkland surrounding the Hall, with ancient woodlands and wildlife-rich fishing lakes to explore.

6
BIRTHDAY PARTY 2 CAVE TOUR 1500142794
Day Two

Follow in the footsteps of woolly mammoths at Creswell Crags

Gain a fascinating glimpse into life during the last Ice Age at Creswell Crags. Explore the fascinating caves, gorge, and museum at Creswell Crags, walk in the footsteps of early humans and woolly mammoths through our dramatic gorge, marvel at the Ice Age rock art still visible in the extraordinary caves and see Britain's largest collection of witch marks. There's also peaceful waterside walks around a central lake, a play area and cafe.

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