Hardwick Park is a country park with a difference. Now a Visit Britain accredited attraction, it has survived since the 1750s when its then owner, John Burdon, created a sprawling ornamental park. Today, the remains of some of the original buildings he created can be seen throughout the park, which suggest the area has a richer story to tell.
Visitor information
Hardwick Park is managed by our Countryside Service. We have been able to restore the park back to its former glory, thanks to the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Facilities
Our new visitor centre has excellent facilities including an interactive exhibition space, fully equipped education room, cafe and public toilets.
Current opening times (daily)
Park gates - 7.00am to 8.00pm.
Cafe - 10.00am to 6.00pm (limited menu after 4pm).
Visitor Centre exhibition 9.00am to 4.00pm.
Toilets - 7.00am to 8.00pm
There are a number of accessible parking bays at the park. The visitor centre is fully accessible for people with disabilities and the circuit walk is accessible to visitors of all abilities.
The surfaced route is a minimum of two metres wide, generally flat and has no steps. There are two slopes but easier alternatives will be marked. Other paths around the park are generally flat but may be muddy at times.
Getting here
Hardwick Park is on the west side of Sedgefield in County Durham. Grid Reference NZ 346 288 (Ordnance Survey map Explorer 305).
- By public transport: The nearest bus stop is at Sedgefield High Street. From there it is a half mile walk following a signposted footpath through the arch of the Hardwick Arms Hotel. Up-to-date bus timetables are available from Traveline on 0871 200 2233 or through our journey planning web page.
- By car or coach: Hardwick Park is on the A177 Durham to Stockton road on the west side of Sedgefield, two and a half miles from A1(M) Junction 60 (well sign-posted).
- On foot, cycle or horse: Paths allow easy access to the park at all times. See Ordnance Survey map Explorer 305.
Download Hardwick Park information
More information
For more countryside information, please click on one of the links below:
Other sources of information
Car Parking Charges
We are planning to introduce car parking charges.
From 1 July 2012 the following charges will apply.
Cars - up to two hours £2.00/all day £3.00.
Annual Pass £75.00
Coaches and Minibuses - all day £9.00
Motorcycles - All day free.
For an introductory period, annual passes can be purchased from the Visitor Centre for the discounted rate of £52.00. These will go on sale from 1 June 2012 until 1 September 2012.
Parking fees will directly benefit the park as the income will help us ensure Hardwick remains safe, clean and well maintained.
You can give your comments about the planned charges by viewing the Hardwick Park off street parking places order 2012 and contacting the council.
