St Mary

The earliest reference to Hardwick dates from 991, when the Saxon chieftain, Byrhtnoth, gave the estate of Hardwick to the Abbot and Convent of Ely.

St Mary’s is located in the centre of the village, where it is believed that people have worshiped for over 1000 years. The first record of a church dates from 1217, although the current church, which is built in the Perpendicular style from field stones with clunch window dressings, dates largely from the 14th century. There was further building work in the 15th century, when the chancel arch was widened and the exquisite queen post roof was erected. Additionally, a stone stair to the rood screen was constructed in the north east corner of the nave.

The most interesting internal feature of the church is what remains of a richly coloured medieval wall painting, which once covered the south wall of the nave. It is believed to date from 1460-1480 and depicts the Seven Deadly Sins. A bearded king riding on a lion with a crown on his head and holding a sword, represents the sin of Pride.