We decided to revisit a previous popular walking area, a bit ‘Up North’ - Hardwick Hall Country Park last walked in 2017.  It’s proximity to the M1 makes for easy access for all and the variety of walks is great if ground conditions are a bit grim.  In addition, of course it has an excellent  pub for coffee and lunch.

10.00am for a 10.30am start meeting at the 15th Century Hardwick Inn, which is at the foot of the slope below Hardwick Hall.  Contact details for the Hardwick Inn 01246 850245

DIRECTIONS

The Hardwick Inn (Postcode: S44 5QJ) is approximately 5 minutes from M1 Junction 29 which now has four lanes open.
Take M1 north / south and come off at exit 29 for Chesterfield / Mansfield / Matlock.
Take the A6175 to Clay Cross (first left turn after north bound slip road).
Follow for approximately 400 yards and turn first left onto Mill Lane (not marked but signed to Stainsby and Hardwick Hall).
Follow this road for approximately 2 miles travelling parallel to M1, round an acute hairpin corner and then going underneath M1; passing the entrance to Hardwick Country Park.  The road to the Hardwick Inn is the next left after approximately 400 yards. 

WALK

Starting from the Hardwick Inn the walk is just over 4 miles long.  We will be walking to the village of Ault Hucknall returning via Hardwick Hall and Old Hall.  Most of the walk will be on good paths with one initial steady gradual climb involved.  NB: Hardwick Hall, especially decorated for Xmas, and Gardens will be open 11.00am to 3.00pm.  It is an NT property.

Lunch will be taken at the Hardwick Inn, which is a renowned venue for good food and a wide choice of ales and malts.  We will be choosing off the bar menu and eating in a private room.

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