Trifter

HARDWICK Park is a garden near Sedgefield in Co Durham which though it disappeared under a tangle of undergrowth has remained virtually unchanged since the 1750s.  It listed as a Grade II* site in the Register of Parks and Gardens published by English Heritage.

The site has been occupied since the Middle Ages when it was known as the Manor of Herdwyck.  John Burdon, a wealthy Tyneside businessman who brought the estate in 1748 began a spectacular programme of landscape improvements.

There was an artificial serpentine river which plunged over a cataract into a large ornament lake to the south of his house.  He had circuit walk laid out which passed a number of decorative buildings and follies around the lake.  There was a series of locations on this walk which revealed magnificent views and allow visitors to halt and rest while admiring the vistas.

Durham County Council, which has managed Hardwick as county park since 1972, has appealed for Heritage Lottery funding to finish its restoration work.

A lot of work has already been accomplished, especially by the Friends of Hardwick.

An archaeological investigation of the site was carried out with input from Channel 4’s Time Team.

Other groups cleared the rampant scrub and tangled undergrowth and replanted the East Park avenue of trees.

Ramside Estates added two wings to Hardwick Hall Hotel, which was John Burdon’s original home.

Working parties rebuilt the dam and started on the restoration of the lake.  Vistas were opened up by the removal of invasive vegetation.

Plans are in hand to restore the folly known as the Gothic Ruin and to build a new visitor centre.

The statue of King Neptune is to be reinstated on Neptune Island and the Friends will rebuild the Gothic Seat.

They intend to clear out the ha-has or hidden ditches, which form a barrier without obscuring the views on the estate.

Already there is a nature trail trough the fen-carr and a tree trail which still contains some of the trees planted by Burdon.  Pond dipping areas and a bird hide exist on the lake edge.  The wildflower meadow at Temple Field is an ideal area for picnics and for the children to play.

Hardwick Park is gradually being restored to its original condition of an 18th Century landscaped garden.  Even while the work is being carried out, it is still well worth visiting.