Calke Abbey - National Trust
Ticknall, Derbyshire
About Calke Abbey - National Trust
Looking for the ultimate guide to one of the National Trust's hidden gems? Calke Abbey in Derby is a unique place to visit with your kids. Expect walled gardens, an overgrown courtyard, a country house full to the brim with a fascinating collection and heaps of cool trails spread across the ancient parkland.
The History of the Calke Estate
With peeling paintwork and overgrown courtyards, Calke Abbey, the un-stately home, is unlike other great country estates. Inside the Baroque mansion, you'll find a contrast between decadence and dereliction, echoing the story of a country house in dramatic decline. Walk through lavish treasures, natural history and a vast collection of household objects.
Did you know that the Harpur family owned the house for nearly 300 years before it was passed to the National Trust?
There's always something new to discover, with a vast and unique collection at Calke Abbey and new displays on show throughout the year. Visit the Calke Abbey website to find out what's on.
Parkland & Gardens
But it is far from a place where time stands still: the historic parkland is home to woodlands, wetlands, hay meadows, and areas of the National Nature Reserve. The parkland supports an array of different wildlife, including Calke's herd of red and fallow deer and a flock of rare-bread Portland sheep. There are lots of ways to explore the parkland, and there are a variety of waymarked walks to choose from, including short circular walks and longer hikes around the wider estate. Will you spot the secluded ponds on your walk?
Discover the walled gardens, with new displays to admire every season. Visit the Physic Garden and take in beds bursting with seasonal produce and colour, a glasshouse vinery, and a productive orchard, echoing the history of Calke's working garden. Other highlights include a rare surviving auricula theatre, the flower garden, a Georgian Orangery, and faded glasshouses.
Are you ready for an afternoon of play? Head to Calke Explore for a bigger adventure and go wild in the natural play area. Spend the afternoon climbing, swinging, and spinning! Or hire a bike from cycle hire and enjoy a smooth ride along the multi-use Tramway Trail, perfect for all ages and abilities.
With acres of ancient parkland, there's plenty to see and do every season. Go on an adventure and follow a waymarked walk, or step off the beaten path and discover scenic views wherever you look. As you explore, keep an eye out for wildlife that call Calke Park home.
Food & Drink
There are plenty of places to refuel after your adventure, with a gift shop, second-hand bookshop, restaurant, café, and refreshment kiosk at Calke Explore available. Here, you'll find a range of hot and cold meals, light refreshments, hot drinks, sandwiches, light snacks, and sweet treats.
Accessibility
- There is accessible parking in the main car park at Calke and Calke Explore. A buggy service is also available for visitors with mobility needs or wheelchair users, providing access to the front of the house and gardens from the ticket office.
- There are accessible toilets available in the Stableyards, Gardens and at Calke Explore.
- Dogs on short leads are allowed to enjoy the gardens, restaurant, cafe, shop, and second-hand bookshop.
- Only assistance dogs are allowed in the house and tunnels.
Calke Abbey is the perfect family-friendly day out! If you're looking to spend some time in nature, explore a derelict Country House, or embark on an adventure, then Calke Abbey is the place to go!
Why We Recommend Calke Abbey, Derby
- You can explore a baroque-style mansion which showcases the English Country House in decline. It's absolutely fascinating!
- There are beautiful gardens for you to wander through and explore! You can even spot fallow deer in the ancient deer park!
- There are plenty of events happening throughout the year!
There's An Un-Stately Home!
The Baroque mansion offers a unique glimpse into a country house in decline. You can explore lavish treasures, natural history, and a vast collection of household objects!
There's Lots of Parkland & Gardens To Explore!
The historic parkland includes woodlands, wetlands, hay meadows, and a National Nature Reserve. Discover the walled gardens with seasonal displays, and admire features like the rare surviving auricula theatre and a Georgian Orangery. The parkland is home to diverse wildlife, including red and fallow deer and rare-breed Portland sheep.
Plenty Of Cycling Adventures!
If your family loves cycling then Calke Abbey is for you! Their Tramway Trail offers excellent cycling opportunities. Plus there's also a balance bike course for little ones, with a new course introduced every Thursday in August!
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Dog Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Wheelchair Hire
Opening Times
- Monday, 08:00 - 18:00
- Tuesday, 08:00 - 18:00
- Wednesday, 08:00 - 18:00
- Thursday, 08:00 - 18:00
- Friday, 08:00 - 18:00
- Saturday, 08:00 - 18:00
- Sunday, 08:00 - 18:00
Pricing & Tickets
- Adult (18+-18+) : £8.00
- Child (5-17) : £4.00
- Babies and Toddlers (0-4) : Free
Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children): £20
The admission above applies to the Parkland and Gardens. There is a seperate admission to visit the House:
Adult (18+): £14
Child (5-17): £7
Family (2 Adults and up to 3 children): £35
Entry is free for National Trust members.
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Calke Abbey - National Trust by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 3 - 4 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
You'll find a range of hot and cold meals, light refreshments, hot drinks, sandwiches, light snacks, and sweet treats.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Contact Details
Transport Information
By Car
On A514 at Ticknall between Swadlincote and Melbourne.
Access from M42/A42 exit 13 and A50 Derby South. If using a SatNav please use postcode DE73 7JF.
By Bus
From Burton-upon-Trent (High Street): Midland Classic to Swadlincote Bus Station (Routes 4, 9, 19) and then Arriva (Route 2) and alight at Ticknall (Calke Abbey Entrance). From Derby Bus Station: Arriva (Route 2) and alight at Ticknall (Calke Abbey Entrance). From the entrance, it's a 1½ mile walk through the park.
By Train
You can get off at Derby Station which is 9½ miles away or Burton-on-Trent station which is 10 miles away.
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 10:00 03/05/2025
Calke Abbey - National Trust Reviews
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