Historic Hopton Hall gardens come alive for July’s Month of Art
The Month of Art takes place every Thursday – Sunday from the 2nd to the 26th of July
Derbyshire's Hopton Hall throws open its gates on Thursday, 2nd July for the Summer opening of its Walled Garden and to offer artists free access to participate in the Month of Art and the chance to win £1,000.
It is the fourth year that the Summer opening and Month of Art have been combined in this way and some 200 artists across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire have already signed up to participate.
This year sees further enhancements to visitor and artist experiences alike:
The addition of new storyboards across the grounds which give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the Estate’s incredible history, including on the decorative Pompeii Rock, brought back to Hopton by archaeologist, traveller and one-time owner of the Hall, Sir William Gell FRS in the early 1800s and on Musket Firing Range (set up by prominent and ruthless Parliamentarian military commander Sir John Gell to rapidly train local miners and labourers into a disciplined, functioning infantry unit during the English Civil War).
Opening of the newly-refurbished The Stables at Hopton Hall which offers a new space to showcase the work of artisans. During the Month of Art, visitors will be able to view a solo exhibition of 2025 Month of Art winner, Lesley Linley.
A new ticketing system enabling visitors to book their tickets in advance and, should they choose, a pass to return as many times as they wish during the July event.
An extended menu and state-of-the art coffee machines at The Café at Hopton Hall which can be enjoyed from indoor seating or an outdoor terrace.
The number of artist gazebos where artists are invited, at no charge, to display and sell their artwork, create artwork and run workshops, has been extended to 32. Custom-made for the event by resident carpenter, Louis, each includes spotlights and commercial Wi-Fi to give artists the most professional setting in which to showcase their art. (All 32 are fully booked for the final weekend.)
(For visitors on 24th, 25th and 26th July who wish to cast their votes to select the Month of Art 2026 winner) the opportunity to access the main corridor of the Hall to view the submitted artwork.
Owner and custodian of Hopton Hall Chris Harvey said: “Our Walled Garden is well-known for its 2,000 rose bushes and 5,000 immaculately clipped box plants, and visitors love our walks through the woodland and around the wildlife lake too. We know from Competition entries in previous years that the Estate offers so much inspiration for artwork – whether its natural beauty, quirky features like the Crinkle-Crankle Wall (the inspiration for the Serpentine Hedges at Chatsworth House) or our super friendly and fluffy cat, Gladys!
“The event brings such positive vibes and people to the estate and we’re really looking forward to greeting all our guests.”
The Month of Art takes place every Thursday – Sunday from the 2nd to the 26th of July. Tickets (priced at £7.50 for adults and £3.75 for children) can be booked online at: hoptonhall.co.uk.