Hardwick Hall

We had a trip to Nottingham today to pick up a new mountain bike for Richard. After an adventure trying to get out of the car park we were in need of a walk and some lunch.

I spotted Hardwick Hall just off the motorway. The house was still closed but the extensive grounds were open to visitors. We decided on the welly walk down to the mill ponds to see the swans before dropping into the cafe. Well worth the detour!

This is a rather moody view of the New Hall, built by Bess of Hardwick in Elizabethan times, achieved by yours truly balancing on a trestle to see over the gate. The things you do for a photo!