Calke Abbey
A unique National Trust estate preserved in its state of elegant decay, offering an intimate glimpse into history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Wisteria blooms beautifully
Calke Abbey
Best Time
Wisteria blooms beautifully
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique National Trust estate preserved in its state of elegant decay, offering an intimate glimpse into history.
"The house where time stands still, offering a unique and poignant historical experience."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leashed dogs are welcome in the parkland and gardens, perfect for a scenic dog walk.
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll need several hours to explore the house, gardens, and extensive parkland.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Un-Stately House
The main house
Experience a house preserved in its state of elegant decay, showcasing a family's life and collections.
Walled Garden & Orangery
Gardens
Discover a beautifully maintained walled garden and a charming orangery, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Old Man of Calke
Parkland
Marvel at the 'Old Man of Calke,' an ancient oak tree estimated to be over 1,200 years old.
Taxidermy Collection
House interiors
Explore an extensive and fascinating collection of taxidermy, a unique feature of the house.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unrestored Charm
Plan for the Parkland and Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leashed dogs are welcome in the parkland and gardens, perfect for a scenic dog walk.
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll need several hours to explore the house, gardens, and extensive parkland.
🧥 Dress for the weather
Much of the exploration is outdoors, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
Enjoy a bite at the cafe; it can get busy, but the food is good.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Leashed dogs are welcome in the parkland and gardens, perfect for a scenic dog walk.
⏳ Allow ample time
You'll need several hours to explore the house, gardens, and extensive parkland.
🧥 Dress for the weather
Much of the exploration is outdoors, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.
☕ Cafe & Refreshments
Enjoy a bite at the cafe; it can get busy, but the food is good.
📸 Capture the decay
The unique 'un-stately' aesthetic makes for incredible, atmospheric photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Calke Abbey for its unique 'un-stately' charm and the authentic glimpse it offers into a family's history. The extensive grounds, including the walled garden and parkland, are a major draw for walks and enjoying nature. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers enhance the experience, though the cafe can get busy.
"First visit today with my wife and kids. The main house was closed for winter maintenance, but it didn’t spoil the fun at all. Plenty of great walking routes, loads of space for the kids to explore, and the highlight for us was definitely the tunnels and the old ice house — really unique and worth the trip on their own.
Beautiful place, friendly staff, and a brilliant family day out even in the off-season. Will definitely be back when the house reopens!"
O'Toole UK
"Superb property, that's been kept as the trust found it in its decline. The house has loads of interesting items in it and the room guides are very knowledgeable. The brewhouse tunnels were decorated for Halloween and were good fun. The church is also worth the walk. The usual cafe and giftshop on site."
Darren Barton
"There is a LONG drive to the entrance. Be sure that your GPS takes you to the correct one.
Calke Abbey is maintained a bit differently from other National Trust Properties. The Trust chose not to try to bring it back to its original glory, but rather, to leave it in the condition in which it was received, which includes wings of rooms in disrepair.
Tour is self guided but volunteers are frequent to offer explanations or answer questions.
One of the unique holdings is a state bed made for King George I in 1715. The bed linens were found by the Trust rolled up in the basement. Since they were in perfect condition, the bed is set up as it would have been and preserved behind glass.
Another was the caricature room whose walls were covered with humor satirical pictures. I found it to be quite entertaining.
The dining room featured some outstanding decor, simply presented. The main entertaining room was filled with glass cabinets loaded with taxidermy. Not my favorite but that is how the family had left it to the Trust.
One particular wing has rooms that are in complete disrepair with the ceilings falling, wall paper peeling, and loads of broken furniture haphazardly tossed in the room. Not at all what one would expect while walking through a National Trust Site.
Calke Abbey is perfect example of a country estate that was barely held together in the 20th century. Many similar country houses did not survive to tell their story.
We are National Trust members (via Royal Oak), so I cannot attest to the cost of entry. Parking lot was within easy walk of the entrance. No reservations were needed."
Barbara Geisler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calke Abbey is located near Ticknall, Derbyshire. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options are limited; consider checking local bus routes if not driving.
Yes, there is a car park available for visitors. It can get busy, especially during peak times.
Cycling is a great way to explore the surrounding areas. There are cycle routes nearby, and you can often lock bikes securely on site.
Public transport to Calke Abbey can be challenging. While buses serve nearby villages, it often requires a significant walk or onward taxi. Checking local bus timetables is essential.
The postcode for Calke Abbey is DE73 7JF. This is useful for sat-navs and online map searches.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees apply for non-National Trust members. Garden tickets are available, or you can purchase a full house and garden ticket. Check the National Trust website for current prices.
Yes, National Trust members get free entry to Calke Abbey.
Opening hours vary seasonally for the house, gardens, and parkland. It's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Tickets can typically be purchased on the day of your visit, but booking in advance is recommended during busy periods to guarantee entry.
National Trust members receive free entry. Keep an eye out for special offers or free day pass vouchers that may be available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the unique 'un-stately' house, wander through the walled gardens and orangery, walk the extensive parkland, and discover ancient trees and wildlife.
Absolutely! Calke Abbey offers plenty for families, including open spaces for running around, seasonal trails, and the intriguing house itself.
Yes, dogs are welcome on leads in the parkland and gardens, making it a great spot for a dog walk.
The house is famous for being preserved in its state of 'elegant decay,' showing how a country estate looked as it fell into decline, with original items left in situ.
Knowledgeable volunteers are often on hand to share insights into the house and its history. Check for any scheduled talks or tours upon arrival.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe offering light lunches, snacks, and drinks. It can get busy, especially on weekends.
Picnic spots are available in the parkland, allowing you to enjoy your own food amidst the beautiful scenery.
The cafe typically serves a range of sandwiches, cakes, hot meals like quiches, and beverages.
While specific options can vary, National Trust cafes usually offer vegetarian choices, and often some vegan alternatives. It's worth asking staff for current availability.
You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in designated picnic areas within the grounds.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the house, but without flash to protect the delicate interiors and collections.
The 'un-stately' interiors, the walled garden, the orangery, and the ancient trees in the parkland offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Please check their specific policy.
While dedicated photography tours might not be standard, the unique atmosphere and subjects make it a photographer's dream.
Calke Abbey is ideal for architectural photography, nature photography, and capturing atmospheric, historical scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The unique nature of the house, with its preserved decay, can spark curiosity and imagination, making history feel more tangible and exciting than a perfectly restored manor. 🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photographers
+1 The walled garden, orangery, and ancient trees in the parkland provide stunning natural and architectural subjects. The unique character of Calke Abbey ensures a portfolio filled with distinctive and evocative images. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Un-Stately' House: A Unique Preservation
+1This approach allows visitors to connect with the history on a deeper level, imagining the lives lived within these walls. It’s a powerful testament to a period of decline for many country houses, presented without gloss or embellishment. The sheer volume of collected items, from taxidermy to everyday objects, creates a fascinating, almost overwhelming, sensory experience.
+1Exploring Calke Abbey is like stepping into a time capsule. The lack of modern intervention makes it feel incredibly real and poignant. It’s a place that sparks conversation and reflection on heritage, preservation, and the passage of time.
+1Exploring the Expansive Parkland and Gardens
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, spot deer grazing, and discover hidden corners of the estate. The Tram Way Trail is a popular route for longer walks, often leading back to the cafe. The walled garden is a highlight, featuring a beautiful orangery and meticulously maintained flowerbeds that change with the seasons.
It's a tranquil space to relax and enjoy the horticultural beauty. For dog owners, the parkland and gardens are a paradise, with plenty of space for four-legged friends to roam on leads. Whether you're seeking a gentle stroll or a more vigorous hike, the grounds of Calke Abbey provide a diverse and beautiful landscape to discover. The combination of natural beauty and historical remnants makes it a truly special place to spend a day.
Family Adventures at Calke Abbey
The expansive parkland provides ample space for kids to run, play, and explore. Seasonal events and trails, like the flower lotto trail mentioned by visitors, add an extra layer of engagement.
Dogs are also welcome on leads in many areas, making it a great outing for the whole family, including furry members. With its mix of intriguing interiors, beautiful gardens, and vast outdoor spaces, Calke Abbey offers a memorable day out for visitors of all ages.
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