Calke Abbey

A visit to Calke Abbey is a fascinating day out for all the family. The 242 hectares 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.  

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.  

• Car parking 
• Gift shop 
• Picnic area  
• Plant shop 
• Playground and natural playground  
• Restaurant and cafe 
• Toilets 

• Open: 8am-6pm
• Entry fees apply
• Annual membership available