Calke Abbey - National Trust

Stop by another day and venture down to the active hub of Calke Explore. Discover the natural play area in the woodland and spend the afternoon climbing, swinging, and spinning amongst nature. Get pedalling this summer and embark on two-wheeled adventures along the Tramway Trail. Gear up at the close-by cycle hire facility and choose from a range of bikes, including trailers for little legs or dogs. Little ones can also put their cycling skills to the test on the balance bike course! Pssttt... there's a new course to try every Thursday in August.

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!

Looking for festive fun this holiday season? Check out nearby events on our Christmas Events 2024 page!