Hardwick Hall

Hardwick Hall stands proudly on the horizon, overlooking the M1 motorway just before you head north to Sheffield.

It was the dream creation of Bess of Hardwick, a great lady of the 16th Century and quite a feisty lady, who married into aristocracy and had a dream of creating her hall, not far from the Old Hall where she grew up.

My photo is taken of the new Hall, from the ruins of her old home.

Hardwick Hall is very well maintained by English Heritage and the National Trust. The Hall houses a real treasure trove of magnificent tapestries, and wonderful stoneware. The Herb Garden has more than 150 varieties and from the property, you have the most magnificent views over the lovely Derbyshire countryside. It is well worth making a special journey to visit.

Views from the top of the Old Hall over the Derbyshire countryside

The Hall from the Herb Garden

The Blue Bedroom - is it haunted ?

Hardwick Hall, from the garden

Flash is forbidden - but why do other visitors insist on straying into the shot, especially when it's on timer