A visit to Hardy's of Alnwick

Over the years, my longing for a Hardy fly reel has been intensifying, and about a month or two ago, I finally satisfied that desire. 

My new Hardy Marquis Reel, is a hallmark of precision and craftsmanship, it exemplifies the long-standing legacy of Hardy’s of Alnwick. 

Renowned for its durability and timeless design, it has been a favourite of anglers for decades. Hardy Bros, established in 1872, has consistently been at the forefront of fly-fishing innovation, blending tradition with quality. Their commitment to handcrafting reels with meticulous detail has cemented their reputation as one of the most respected names in the fishing world, embodying the spirit of British angling heritage. 

I wasn’t just happy acquiring my reel I also wanted to visit the Hardy shop and museum in Alnwick. 

So just a couple of weeks ago I made the 242-round trip to the Northumberland market town. 

My son and I arrived in Alnwick in glorious sunshine, parked up and walked through the town’s 15th century defensive walls to the Bondgate where the Hardy shop is located. 

We received a warm welcome in the shop and had a chat with the friendly staff. We then had a browse around the shop admiring the rods and reels on display and then went upstairs to visit the museum. 

The Museum gives a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of one of the world’s most iconic fishing tackle manufacturers. Showcasing an impressive collection of reels, rods, and angling memorabilia. 

The interactive displays and informative exhibits provide insight into the evolution of angling techniques, tackle and design and the great legacy of Hardy. 

Before leaving the shop and museum I purchased a DVD which is an excellent documentary that I highly recommend, telling the story of Hardy it’s called “The Lost World of Mr Hardy” we were then given directions to the old original hardy factory which is just a few hundred yards along the road.

Before I went to see the old building, we visited a charity book shop [ as you do] however they didn’t have any angling books of interest to me but I did have a very interesting and informative chat with the owner who informed us that he and his wife both worked in the old Hardy factory, he assisted with the rod making and his wife tied flies in the factory. 

The old factory building now incorporates a squash club and an estate agent and I was told that the upstairs space may be getting made into apartments, a desirable residence for a wealthy Hardy enthusiast perhaps? 

I had no desire to visit the relocated factory which is on the outskirts of town in an industrial estate. I think if I had done that it would tarnish the impression and legacy that I associate with the Hardy story. 

Instead, my son and I then went a walk around the very attractive and historical town and after visiting a coffee shop we visited the grounds of Alnwick castle which was the location for a couple of the early Harry Potter films. 

This wee town in the North East of England certainly cast a spell on me and I will certainly will be making a return visit sometime in the future.