Hardwick Hall & Bolsover Castle

Back in the summer Hubby and I visited Bolsover Castle (English Heritage) and Hardwick Hall (National Trust). I didn't blog about either place at the time but looking at my photos they were such beautiful places it would be remiss not to. 

Bolsover Castle was restored by William Cavendish, grandson of Bess of Hardwick. The hilltop castle with it's amazing views was a fashionable retreat in the 17th Century. Many lavish parties were held in its labyrinth of rooms and walled gardens.

Hardwick Hall is where Bess of Hardwick was born, although in the original house which is now a ruin. The ruined Hardwick Hall is owned by English heritage but is currently too unsafe to be opened. Restoration work is ongoing and it is hoped it will be eventually be open to visitors. It's a huge building that would have been very grand in its day, but not as grand as the Hardwick Hall we visited.

It was Bess of Hardwick, who also built Chatsworth House, who created Hardwick Hall in the 1500s. She and her descendants have created an amazing house filled with treasures including magnificent tapestries. 

The Duchess Evelyn, the Last Lady of Hardwick, completed the middle floors with her restored bedroom and she pioneered conservation work in the East Court Rose Garden.

Bess of Hardwick's granddaughter Arbella stuart was the niece to Mary Queen of Scots and at realistic claim to the throne after Elizabeth I died. Hardwick Hall is certainly a sumptuous house, some say a palace fit for a queen, whilst other question whether it was a prison for a princess. 

As a needleworker I found the house absolutely fascinating,  the tapestries were unbelievable both in size and skill. I wonder how many women worked on each, the designs were so intricate. 

Both Hubby and I were fascinated by Beth of Hardwick, we've since read a book on her life ... what an amazing life it was!