Discover Calke Abbey - A Must-Visit National Trust Attraction in Derbyshire & the Peak District
Looking for inspiring things to see and do in Derbyshire or an unforgettable day out near Derby? Calke Abbey is a unique country estate and National Trust favourite located in Ticknall, Derbyshire, where history, nature, gardens, parkland and family-friendly outdoor adventure come together in one remarkable setting.
đ° Explore the ‘Un-Stately’ Home of Calke Abbey
Step inside a very different kind of stately home. Calke Abbey is often called the ‘un-stately’ home because many of its rooms tell a real and unedited story of a country estate in decline - with interiors preserved as they were found by the National Trust. Look out for grand state rooms, faded splendour, eclectic historic collections and atmospheric spaces that reveal fascinating details about the lives of its former occupants.
đŋ Wander Through Stunning Gardens
The gardens at Calke Abbey offer peace, seasonal colour and rich horticultural heritage. Explore the walled garden with productive beds, stroll past glasshouses and the historic Pleasure Grounds, and admire thirty varieties of snowdrops carpeting the beds in late winter. Seasonal garden tours - usually available from spring through autumn - let you dig deeper into the history and planting of this special garden.
đļâī¸ Discover Calke’s Vast Parkland & Nature Trails
Beyond the house and gardens lies a breathtaking estate of ancient parkland and woodland, perfect for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers. Whether you choose a guided park walk or strike out on your own, Calke’s historic landscape offers glimpses of veteran trees, wildlife and acres of countryside. The Tramway Trail provides a family-friendly route suitable for walkers and cyclists alike, winding through pastures and woodlands.
đ´âī¸ Get Active at Calke Explore
Calke Explore - part of the wider estate - is an excellent base for outdoor adventure and play. Here you can begin walking or cycling routes into the surrounding parkland, enjoy woodland play spaces, and access the Tramway Trail for a gentle bike ride or scenic stroll through nature. Cycle hire is available seasonally for families and visitors who want to explore on two wheels.
đž Family Fun & Dog-Friendly Outings
Calke Abbey welcomes families and dogs alike. Natural play areas tucked into the woodland are ideal for young explorers, and the estate’s extensive grounds provide endless room for outdoor fun and seasonal activities. Well-behaved dogs are permitted on short leads in many parts of the park, gardens and stable yards - making this a perfect family-friendly attraction in Derbyshire.
â Eat, Shop & Relax
Refresh and refuel during your visit with refreshments at the on-site café, and browse unique gifts, souvenirs and National Trust merchandise in the shop. You’ll also find seasonal pop-up facilities and a second-hand bookshop to enjoy while you explore the estate.
đ Plan Your Visit
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Location: Calke Abbey, Ticknall, Derbyshire, DE73 7JF - easily reachable by car from Derby and across Derbyshire.
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Opening Times & Tickets: Calke Abbey operates seasonal opening times for the house, gardens and wider estate - check the National Trust website before you travel. Members enjoy free entry to many areas.
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Facilities: Café, shop, accessible walking routes, park trails, family-friendly outdoor spaces and cycling options at Calke Explore.
đ Why Visit Calke Abbey?
Whether you’re fascinated by historic homes with real stories, seeking glorious outdoor walks and nature experiences, or planning a family-friendly day out in Derbyshire, Calke Abbey delivers unforgettable experiences. From “peeling back the curtain” inside the ‘un-stately’ home to exploring woodlands and gardens rich with heritage, it’s one of the most engaging and scenic attractions near Derby and in the Peak District National Park.
Plan your visit to Calke Abbey today - where history, nature and adventure meet in the heart of Derbyshire!
âšī¸ For the most up-to-date information, visit their official website.
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We really hope that you find this website useful in helping you find and plan your day out. Whilst we try our absolute hardest to ensure all of the information is correct and up to date, we highly recommend you call ahead of any planned visit to check opening times and prices etc. We don't want to disappoint anyone! Remember to tag us in on your day out with the hashtag #ThingsDDO!
