The Homes of a Powerful Lady….

Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire

Welcome to Hardwick Hall, or I should  say Hall’s ? Well yes, on this high ridge above the Derbyshire countryside, you will find both the Old Hall and the New Hall – New? well being built between 1590/1597 still rather venerable.

Both Halls are inextricably linked to Elizabeth Hardwick.  Born, and her early years spent in the Old Hall , she became by all accounts the second, wealthiest and powerful woman, in England, after  Queen Elizabeth I.  Marriages to four powerful members of the English Nobility, enhanced her power and wealth.

One of her skills was instructing architects and builders to create some of England’s now historic buildings.  Whilst married to Sir William Cavendish she created Chatsworth House.

But it would appear her heart was always at Hardwick.  For a time she moved back to the Old Hall, which as the New Hall is built adjacent to the Old Hall, gave her the ability to engage closely with the New Hall project.  It was also a building of innovation in so many ways……. often describes as a building of more glass than stone, making full use of both this new but expensive ‘new window material’.  Design is also rather unique, in that the rear elevation is much like the front.

Elizabeth’s forth husband was the 6th Earl of Shrewsbury, so hence the inclusion of the initials ES that surmount all  the roof edges. You are left in no mistake as to who owned the Hall.

Lets take a brief Tour of the New Hall, full of treasurers and an extensive  collection of Tapestries that cover nearly all the walls.  All set in a both a leisure garden plus vegetable and herb gardens.

Now, onto the Old Hall.  Having suffered neglect for many centuries, whilst describing it as a ruin would be accurate, it still gives you the impression of a once major and impressive Hall.  Despite the passage of time you can still capture the atmosphere of what was once an important Derbyshire building.

Elizabeth started live as Elizabeth Hardwick, ended her life as Elizabeth Shrewsbury.  But is does seem that there was a great deal of affection for her as she often referred to as Bess of Hardwick.  Following her death in 1608, her body was transported to Derby Cathedral.  Although not a long journey, it was spread over several days, with pauses for locals on route to pay their respects…..

Elizabeth of Hardwick, or Bess of Hardwick if you prefer, rests peacefully,  here in Derby Cathedral.

I hope you have enjoyed the Tour.  Travelling in the area its more than worth pausing to explore Hardwick.

Wherever you travel as always….

Please Remember ….

Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other

19th August

(C) David Oakes 2023