Hardwick Park
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Hardwick Park

4.7
·241 reviews·Sedgefield, United Kingdom

A stunning park with a huge new adventure playground, scenic lake, historic ruins, and free AR trails. Perfect for families and nature lovers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more playtime

CrowdLow
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Hardwick Park

Hardwick Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more playtime

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning park with a huge new adventure playground, scenic lake, historic ruins, and free AR trails. Perfect for families and nature lovers.

4.7
(241 reviews)

"Hardwick Park is a beautiful, free day out with an amazing new playground that kids absolutely love!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 New Playground Alert!

The new play area is a massive hit! Visit early or late to avoid crowds.

💰 Parking: Cash is King

Bring cash for parking as phone signal can be unreliable for the app.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Epic New Play Tower

The Epic New Play Tower

Play Area

A 14.5-meter high adventure with slides, rope bridges, zip wires, and sensory fun for all ages.

Instagram
Scenic Lake and Wildlife

Scenic Lake and Wildlife

Main Lake

Wander around the large lake, spot swans and ducks, and enjoy peaceful moments by the water.

Reddit
Historic Castle Ruins

Historic Castle Ruins

Grounds

Explore the intriguing remnants of Hardwick Castle, adding a touch of history to your visit.

Reddit
Interactive AR Trails

Interactive AR Trails

Throughout the park

Discover Romans and dinosaurs hidden in the park using your phone for a fun, free augmented reality adventure.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Peak Playtime

The new play area at Hardwick Park is a huge hit, especially with families! To guarantee the best experience for your little ones, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. This helps avoid the peak times when the playground can get quite busy, ensuring more space and less waiting for the slides and swings. Instagram

Parking and Payment Tips

Parking at Hardwick Park costs around £2.50-£3.50. While there's a pay-by-phone app option, some visitors report issues with mobile signal in the car park. Bringing cash is a reliable backup to ensure a smooth entry and avoid any payment hassles. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more playtime
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Pleasant for walks
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It’s FREE so that’s a win from us! Hardwick Park has had a revamp and I’m obsessed, the play frame is amazing & great for walks, scooters and just getting them outdoors. Add this to your week end list! #freedaysout #northeastfamilyexplorers #familydaysout #parks
@northeastfamilyexplorers
11K likes • 374.9K views

🎯 New Playground Alert!

The new play area is a massive hit! Visit early or late to avoid crowds. TikTokInstagram

💰 Parking: Cash is King

Bring cash for parking as phone signal can be unreliable for the app. InstagramReddit

A walk in Hardwick Park and afternoon tea in Hardwick Hall 🌳🧁 The perfect day date for people in Teesside and County Durham! Follow me for more day out ideas. #afternoontea #creamtea #dateideas #countydurham #teesside
@thenorthernist
488 likes • 9.4K views
Last week we caught up with the team installing the brand new play tower at Hardwick Park, including Stefan who is visiting from Germany to lend his expertise to our UK installers, having worked on the original tower in Bietigheim-Bissingen, near Stuttgart. PLUS find out more about what else has been installed in the new play area from our Parks and Countryside Officer, Lindsay.
durham_county_council
35 likes • 3.3K views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks

Leashed dogs are welcome! Enjoy scenic walks around the lake and grounds. Instagram

📱 Free AR Adventures

Download the app for fun Roman and dinosaur AR trails. Instagram

🥰 A new playground has arrived in the North East. Have you visited Hardwick Park’s new play area? 🧐 Hardwick Park is now home to a 14.5 metre play tower full of tunnel slides, rope bridges, swings, zip wires and sensory experiences. ❤️ This new play area is proving extremely popular. We recommend you visit early in the morning or evening to avoid the crowds. We visited last night at around 5pm....
northeastfamilydaysout
1.6K likes • 130.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 New Playground Alert!

The new play area is a massive hit! Visit early or late to avoid crowds. TikTokInstagram

💰 Parking: Cash is King

Bring cash for parking as phone signal can be unreliable for the app. InstagramReddit

🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks

Leashed dogs are welcome! Enjoy scenic walks around the lake and grounds. Instagram

📱 Free AR Adventures

Download the app for fun Roman and dinosaur AR trails. Instagram

🥪 Picnic Perfect Spots

Plenty of grassy areas for picnics, but be mindful of dog waste. Reddit

☕ Cafe & Facilities

On-site cafe, clean toilets, and visitor information available. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(241 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Hardwick Park, highlighting its stunning natural beauty, extensive walking trails, and the fantastic new adventure playground that's a hit with children. The historical ruins and lake add to its charm, making it a great free day out for families and dog walkers alike. Some minor drawbacks include parking fees and occasional issues with mobile signal for payment apps.

"Stunning park!

On entry by car you need to pay for parking (I paid £2.50, there were plenty of parking spaces available even on a beautiful day).

Lots to see and do for small children, there were plenty of people walking their dogs too.

I saw Hardwick Hall, and a castle, some ruins and a lovely big lake that had swans and ducks in! (They expected to be fed!).

Lots of wooded areas, lots of grass. Lots to see and experience, you could easily spend half a day here walking around and exploring the place.

It was a beautiful day when I visited so it was busy. There are toilet facilities on site as well as a tourist information shed.
There's also a cafe with seating inside and outside.

Really lovely place and I would love to visit again!"

Claire

"Beautiful lovely park! Was a nice long walk. Can buy seeds near the cafe and feed ducks. Great views. Cute hidden statues. Castle ruins. Absolutely great. There are toilets and cafe available."

Natalia Lemanczyk

"Lovely place for a picnic. Can buy seeds for the water birds from the visitor centre. Take cash for parking because there’s very little mobile signal in the car park and you can’t download the Paybyphone app. One visitor complained that the app didn’t work because of the lack of signal. It was one bar on 4G!"

David Gordon

What People Like

Beautiful park and grounds
Amazing new playground
Great for dog walks

What People Dislike

Parking fees
Mobile signal issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hardwick Park is located in Sedgefield, Stockton-on-Tees, TS21 2DN. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options might require further planning depending on your starting point. TikTok

Yes, there is an on-site car park. It costs approximately £2.50-£3.50. You can pay by cash or use the pay-by-phone app, though mobile signal can be weak. InstagramReddit

Yes, cycling is a great way to explore the park, and there are many paths suitable for bikes. TikTok

The park offers paths for both adventurous and less able visitors, making it generally accessible. Reddit

Hardwick Park is generally open daily from dawn till dusk. Specific facility hours (like the cafe) may vary. It's best to check the official Durham County Council website for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Hardwick Park itself is free to enter and explore. The main cost is for parking, which is around £2.50-£3.50. TikTokInstagram

No, tickets are not required for general entry to Hardwick Park. You only need to pay for parking. TikTok

Yes, Hardwick Park hosts events like the Hardwick Festival, which features live music, food, and entertainment. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Hardwick Park offers various birthday party packages, including popular minibeast-themed parties. Instagram

The parking fee applies to all visitors, including blue badge holders, at approximately £2.50 for 2 hours or £3.50 for longer stays. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Kids will love the massive new play tower with slides and rope bridges, obstacle courses, and an enclosed playground for younger children. There are also free AR trails to discover. Instagram+2

You can buy seeds near the cafe to feed the ducks and swans on the lake. Reddit

Yes, there are many walking trails, including routes around the lake and through wooded areas, suitable for all fitness levels. TikTokInstagramReddit

The park features intriguing castle ruins and other historical points of interest marked on guide maps. Reddit

Yes, Hardwick Park is very dog-friendly, with plenty of space for dogs to roam on a leash and enjoy walks. InstagramReddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site that serves drinks and light meals. They offer seating both inside and outside. Reddit

The cafe offers drinks like coffee (made by machine) and has seating available. Visitors have enjoyed items like mochas. Reddit

Hardwick Park has many lovely grassy areas perfect for picnics. Remember to bring your own food and drinks. Reddit

For a special treat, consider afternoon tea at the nearby Hardwick Hall Hotel. TikTokInstagram

Prices are reasonable, with a mocha costing around £3.10. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake with its swans and ducks, the historic castle ruins, and the vibrant new play area offer great photo opportunities. The scenic grounds are beautiful in any season. Reddit

The free AR trails allow you to 'spot' Romans and dinosaurs, which can lead to fun and unique photos. Instagram

Yes, the expansive grounds, large lake, and surrounding natural beauty make it a good location for landscape photography, especially during golden hour. Reddit

Yes, attendees are encouraged to capture and share the vibrant atmosphere of the Hardwick Festival. TikTok+1

Late afternoons often provide beautiful lighting, known as the 'golden hour,' which enhances the park's natural beauty. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hardwick Park is a dream destination for families! The brand-new, massive play tower is the star attraction, offering endless fun with slides, rope bridges, and zip wires. Instagram+1 There's also an enclosed playground for toddlers and obstacle courses to keep everyone entertained. Instagram Don't miss the free AR trails where kids can hunt for dinosaurs and Romans using their phones! Instagram Pack a picnic to enjoy in the scenic grounds, or grab a bite at the on-site cafe. Reddit Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the biggest crowds at the playground. Instagram

🐶 Dog Owners

Hardwick Park is a fantastic spot for a dog walk! Your furry friends are welcome to explore the extensive grounds and scenic lake paths on a leash. Instagram It's a great place for dogs to stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air. Instagram While dogs are welcome, remember to be mindful of other visitors, especially during picnics, and clean up after your pet. Reddit The park offers plenty of space for dogs to roam and enjoy the natural surroundings. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature & History Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate nature and history, Hardwick Park offers a rich experience. Explore the beautiful lake with its abundant birdlife and enjoy peaceful walks through the wooded areas. Reddit Discover the intriguing castle ruins scattered throughout the park, offering a glimpse into its past. Reddit The park also features a physical sculpture trail and informative guide maps to enhance your exploration. Instagram It's a perfect place to connect with nature and uncover local history. Reddit

🎶 Festival Goers

If you're looking for live music and a vibrant atmosphere, mark your calendars for the Hardwick Festival. TikTok This annual event transforms the park into a lively festival ground with multiple stages, diverse food options, and a funfair. TikTok It's a fantastic opportunity to experience the park in a completely different, energetic setting. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The New Play Area: A Family Favorite

Hardwick Park has undergone a significant revamp, with the new play area being a major highlight for families. It features an impressive 14.5-meter play tower, complete with tunnel slides, rope bridges, zip wires, and various sensory experiences. Instagram This state-of-the-art facility has quickly become a huge draw, offering hours of entertainment for children of all ages. Instagram The playground is designed to be engaging and adventurous, making it a top destination for a fun-filled family day out. Instagram

To make the most of your visit to the play area, it's highly recommended to arrive early in the morning or visit later in the afternoon. Instagram This strategy helps to avoid the peak crowds, ensuring your children have ample space to play and enjoy the equipment without long waits. TikTok The park also offers an enclosed playground specifically for little ones, providing a safe and fun environment for the youngest visitors. Instagram Beyond the main play structure, there are obstacle courses and other play zones to explore, ensuring continuous engagement for energetic kids. Instagram

In addition to the physical play structures, Hardwick Park incorporates technology with free Augmented Reality (AR) trails. Instagram Families can use their smartphones to discover hidden Romans and dinosaurs throughout the park, adding an educational and interactive element to the visit. Instagram This blend of traditional play and modern technology makes Hardwick Park a dynamic and exciting destination for families looking for a free day out. TikTokInstagram

Exploring the Natural Beauty and History

Hardwick Park is not just about the playground; it boasts significant natural beauty and historical elements that appeal to a wider range of visitors. The park features a large, picturesque lake that is home to various wildlife, including swans and ducks, which are a delight for visitors to observe and even feed. InstagramReddit The grounds are expansive, offering numerous walking trails that wind through wooded areas and open grassy spaces, perfect for leisurely strolls or more vigorous hikes. TikTokInstagram The scenic views from around the park are often described as stunning, making it a peaceful escape. Reddit

Adding to the park's allure are the historical remnants, most notably the intriguing castle ruins. Reddit These provide a glimpse into the past and offer a unique backdrop for exploration and photography. Reddit Visitors can pick up leaflets that guide them to these points of interest, including a physical sculpture trail. Instagram The park's history is also brought to life through interactive smartphone activities, allowing visitors to learn about the site's heritage and wildlife in an engaging way. Reddit This combination of natural landscapes and historical intrigue makes Hardwick Park a well-rounded destination for a day out. Reddit

Events and Special Occasions

Hardwick Park is a versatile venue that hosts a variety of events and can be booked for special occasions. The most prominent event is the Hardwick Festival, a weekend-long celebration featuring multiple stages of live music, a variety of food vendors, bars, and fairground rides. TikTok+1 This festival transforms the park into a vibrant hub of entertainment, attracting a diverse crowd with its awesome vibes and extensive offerings. TikTok

For more intimate celebrations, Hardwick Park also offers birthday party packages. Instagram These can include unique themes like minibeast parties, where children can engage in activities such as pond dipping. Instagram This makes the park an excellent choice for families looking for a memorable and fun-filled birthday experience for their children. Instagram The park's facilities, including the cafe and picnic areas, also make it a suitable location for casual gatherings and family meet-ups. Reddit

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