National Forest Way: Stage 5 Ashby de la Zouch to Ticknall

Ashby de la Zouch

Ashby’s fascinating 15th-century castle was mostly destroyed during the Civil War and is now a captivating ruin. Elsewhere in the town, browse the farmers’ market and independent shops, and visit the intriguing museum to discover where the name ‘de la Zouch’ came from.

Ivanhoe Way

Along this stretch, the Way follows the route of the Ivanhoe Way – so called in tribute to Sir Walter Scott and his novel Ivanhoe, set around Ashby de la Zouch castle and the surrounding countryside. Enjoy distant views across connected young Forest plantations including Alistair’s, Bignall’s and Jaguar Lount Woods.

Dimminsdale Nature Reserve

A history of mineral working accounts for the ‘hobbitesque’ appearance of Dimminsdale Nature Reserve. When limestone and lead mining ceased, the quarries flooded to create pools and brooks. Each spring, parts of the reserve are carpeted with a spectacular display of snowdrops.

Calke Abbey

With peeling paintwork and overgrown courtyards, the National Trust’s Calke Abbey tells the dramatic story of the country house estate in decline. Calke Park, part of which is designated a National Nature Reserve, features an ancient deer park and gnarly thousand-yearold oak trees, remnants of a vast forest that historically covered much of this area. Ashby’s fascinating 15thcentury castle was mostly destroyed during the Civil War and is now a captivating ruin. Elsewhere in the town, browse the farmers’ market and independent shops, and visit the intriguing museum to discover where the name ‘de la Zouch’ came from.  

Leaving Ashby de la Zouch towards Calke Abbey, distant woodlands frame the start of this section of the Way. Look out for glorious views across Staunton Harold Reservoir before entering the undulating Calke Uplands where parkland, wooded country estates and large arable fields are prominent in the landscape.

• Car Parking
• Grassy Paths
• Picnic Area