Hardwick Park — Attraction in Sedgefield

The pictures don't give this place the merit it deserves. Stunning views can be appreciated from this hidden gem and together with a cloudless sunny day, just makes you smile. The onside car park can be paid for by cash or contact less at £2.50 for 2 hours or £3.50 for longer. Being council operated you get nothing for free so blue badge holders pay the same. Toilets are located in the main building, with an on site cafe. Even though the drinks are made by a coffee machine, my mocha (£3.10), was a great start to my morning. It has paths for both adventurous and the less able around the site. Guide maps and boards show places of interest, history and wildlife. Current work is being done to include more play facilities for younger visitors as well as the educational smart phone interactive activities they can join in with for free. This is a great place to appreciate nature and some peace and quiet. There is obviously a couple of down sides. Although there are vast areas you can picnic at, these are spoilt by the huge amount of dog faces. As observed, this is not a welcome addition when having a picnic with children playing. It is also not reserved to open spaces, as withing a 200m straight, I avoided three sizable 'deposits' by inconsiderate dog owners. On the whole, wwll worth visiting if you're in the area, have a few hours to kill and have a beautiful...

Hardwick Park – A Historic Landscape with a Modern Twist

Hardwick Park is not just a country park, but a place where history, nature, and recreation come together. Recognised as a Visit England accredited attraction, the park dates back to the 1750s, when visionary landowner John Burdon transformed the area into a grand ornamental landscape. Many of his original architectural features, including decorative follies and garden buildings, still remain today, offering a glimpse into the park’s rich Georgian heritage.

Visitors can enjoy picturesque lakes, woodland walks, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration. The park’s Visitor Centre provides a welcoming hub with modern facilities, including an interactive exhibition, education room, café, and accessible toilets.

Hardwick Park also has a lively calendar of events throughout the year, ranging from guided walks and family-friendly workshops to seasonal activities that highlight the park’s natural and cultural history. Whether you are interested in history, wildlife, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Hardwick Park offers something...

What a fantastic little wonderland that DCC put together in Hardwick Park, Sedgefield. From the moment you arrive at Santa's yurt, my 2 grandchildren were greeted by a lady taking their names and calling them by their names throughout. Then an Elf appeared, again calling them by their names. Then the big reveal... Santa himself!! Our 6year olds were in Santa Land and in awe of what they had seen, THE REAL SANTA CLAUS. Well I must be honest, of all the Santa visits we have attended over the years, this was far and away the best ever. Many, many thanks to The two girls (inc the one who was the Elf) and never to be forgotten, SANTA himself. I will be booking for 2022 tickets on Boxing Day 2021!! Again please give this venue a try asap for a Santa visit that doesn't cost a lot but will never disappoint.See you...