National Trust Calke Abbey

Poised somewhere between gentle neglect and downright dereliction, Calke Abbey, the un-stately home, is unlike any other great country estate. Entering along the Lime Tree Avenue offers views of the historic parkland, home to the ancient oaks, secluded ponds and woodland walks. The National Nature Reserve awaits discovery and Calke Explore, an outdoor recreation area, provides the perfect base to begin exploring the wider estate through a network of walking and cycling trails.

The walled garden offers moments of reflection, where faded glasshouses and a domed orangery tell the story of a country house in decline, while beds burst with colour and seasonal produce, echoing the history of Calke’s working garden. In the Pleasure Grounds, discover views over the house and Deer Park, where a herd of red and fallow deer roam freely. Look out for daffodils, cowslips, bluebells and wildflowers throughout the spring and summer.

Inside the house and stable yards, a vast collection reveals the varied interests of a loving family who never threw anything away, while peeling paintwork and abandoned rooms portray the state of decay Calke was found in when handed to the National Trust.

Accessibility:

Please note the house is not fully accessible to wheelchairs; a full access statement is available on the website. Outdoor areas are accommodating along with more modern refreshment areas. Ample car parking. Admission fee applies for non-members – please visit the National Trust website for booking information and opening arrangements.

There is a daily buggy service from 10am to 5pm (March to October) or from 10.30am to 2.30pm (November to February), to take visitors between the Ticket Office, House and Gardens.
There are two buggies available, and one can transport visitors in wheelchairs.

Wheelchairs and trampers (personal mobility vehicles) are available to borrow from the Ticket Office. Pre-booking is strongly recommended, by calling

01332 695329.

There are several way-marked routes around the parkland, which are mostly uneven. There are several slopes throughout the estate, some of which are steep.
The Tramway Trail is a figure of eight route suitable for walkers, cyclists and mobility vehicles. It is between 3.7 and 6.3 miles long depending on the route taken. The route can be accessed from the car park at Calke Explore.

There are a number of benches and rest ‘perch’ benches around the parkland and gardens.
There are information boards at both Calke Explore and the Ticket Office, which include a map of the estate and a summary of the way-marked walks. There are no printed leaflets, but A4 copies of the map are available to borrow from the Ticket Office. Maps of the parkland, gardens and Tramway Trail can also be downloaded from the website in advance.