There's always somewhere new to visit in the National Forest, with an array of unique attractions to explore and discover.
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- FOOD & DRINK
Calke Abbey
![/sites/default/files/2023-07/Screenshot%202023-05-12%20150543.png](/sites/default/files/styles/convert_to_webp/public/2023-07/Screenshot%202023-05-12%20150543.png.webp?itok=m5jjraW3)
Address
Ticknall, Derby, DE73 7JF
Phone
01332 863822
Tripadvisor
4.5
Path type
Most paths to and around the grounds are of compacted gravel, with some grass paths and sloping terrain.
Accessibility
Pre-bookable tramper available. Accessible routes to gardens, ground floor of house and around restaurant, café and shop. Braille, induction loop and large print available. Read full statement.
Summary
A visit to Calke Abbey is a fascinating day out for all the family. The 600 acres of historic parkland contain many ancient trees, including the 1200-year-old oak tree ‘the old man of Calke’, as well as secluded ponds and roaming deer. The walled garden is a garden-enthusiast’s delight, bursting with seasonal produce and fascinating buildings including the domed orangery and gardener’s bothy.
Once you have blown away the cobwebs in the grounds, you can explore the baroque-style mansion which has been preserved in a unique state of decline with little change to many of the rooms since the 1880s. This ‘un-stately home’ is a snapshot from a time when many large country houses did not survive and rooms which had been abandoned for decades are preserved in their fascinating state of disarray. The house also boasts a vast natural history collection and you can see stuffed animals including birds and mammals, fish and reptiles, in most rooms of the house.
There is lots to keep children interested at Calke Abbey; start at the new Calke Explore outdoor recreation area with natural play, cycle hire, walking trails and refreshments kiosk and look out for special events throughout the year including Easter egg hunts.
Highlights
Calke Abbey has a unique story to tell and the whole family will enjoy discovering its secrets. With unparalleled parkland and a walled-garden, to the fascinating story of a country house in decline, this is a place where you can enjoy calm contemplation as much as chasing around the wonderful landscape.
Facilities
- Car parking
- Gift shop
- Picnic area
- Plant shop
- Playground and natural playground
- Restaurant and cafe
- Toilets
Advance Visit Information
- Opening hours may vary
- Car parking charges apply
- Entry fees apply
- Annual membership available
![https://www.nationalforest.org/sites/default/files/2024-01/corner-graphic-2%20FINAL.png](https://www.nationalforest.org/sites/default/files/2024-01/corner-graphic-2%20FINAL.png)
There are many places in the Heart of the Forest to connect with history and immerse yourself in the industrial and social heritage.
![https://www.nationalforest.org/sites/default/files/2024-01/CTA%20Illustration%204%20FINAL.png](https://www.nationalforest.org/sites/default/files/2024-01/CTA%20Illustration%204%20FINAL.png)