| One of Britain's foremost Elizabethan houses and a
magnificent statement of wealth and authority of its builder Elizabeth
Shrewsbury, more commonly known as Bess of Hardwick.
During her four marriages Bess became a very wealthy woman and spent much of her fortune on two of her greatest interests, buildings and textiles. The huge stone initials (ES) set along the roofline proclaim this house for the ambitious squire's daughter who rose from relatively humble beginnings to become one of the richest and best-connected people in Elizabethan England. |
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The hall dominates the surrounding area and seems to be more glass
than stone, with massive windows stretching almost from the floor to the
ceiling on every room on every floor.
The strong vertical thrust of the six towers is enhanced by windows that become progressively larger up the house, giving Hardwick the appearance of a glittering glass lantern. The building of the present Hardwick Hall was commenced in 1591 and completed in 1597. It's architecture represents the supreme culmination of Robert Smythson's architectural themes. |
| The hall contains one of Europe's best collections of embroideries and
tapestries and an outstanding collection of 16th-century furniture.
The tapestry-hung stone staircase weaves its way majestically to the state apartments lit by the huge windows on the third floor, still very much as Bess left them. A team of nine stone masons are currently employed on the estate to preserve the stone work of the hall and the associated walls and buildings. |
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About a hundred metres away from the first hall is the Old Hall.
The Old Hall dates from around 1586 and was being transformed into a large house, but was never completed. The Old Hall still stands tall and ruinous. |
| The spectacular gardens, orchards and herb area are a
relaxing place to spend an afternoon. the gardens were laid out in the
late 19th century and are partitioned by long walks edged with yew and
hornbeam.
The historic 300 acre parkland with woods and meadows has great walks and many attractive views. Within the estate there is also Stainsby Mill, a historic water-mill that provided flour for families of the estate. |
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As each of the husbands of
Bess of Hardwick died they each left her land, house and money. |
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