Calke Abbey

Calke Abbey

Derbyshire is blessed with several lovely National Trust properties but Calke Abbey has something for everyone and is probably the most family-friendly.

Calke Abbey review

Prior to arriving at the main car park, turn right to ‘Calke Explore’, a new outdoor recreation area. After you’ve explored there you can drive (or take a 15-minute walk) up to the main car park for the house.

You can picnic throughout the grounds at Calke Abbey – but one insider tip is to park in the overflow car park facing the parkland to enjoy your own idyllic little spot (and save you lugging the food around with you all day). If you don’t wish to picnic there’s a café serving light lunches, cake etc.

Calke is marketed as the ‘unstately stately home’ and there aren’t the opulent interiors you might expect. So we rarely bother with the house itself and instead, enjoy exploring the extensive parkland. The walled garden features an array of beautifully maintained flowers. Interiors fans will swoon with delight at the faded beauty of The Orangery.

There’s a good adventure playground for younger children right near the main car park – which is also close to the toilets and café. Children might also enjoy exploring the long tunnel and the ice bunker.

Important Information Calke Abbey

Is there food and drink available?

National Trust café serves light lunches and cakes etc. You can picnic in the grounds.

What are the main things to do?

A stately home, with extensive parkland including an adventure playground for younger children, tunnel, ice bunker and lots of walking paths. There are toilets and a cafe.

What are the ticket prices?

Free, if you are a member of the National Trust.
An adult standard ticket is £8 and £4 for a child.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.

Is there parking?

There is free parking.

When are they open?

Calke Abbey is open for most of the year although the house doesn’t stay open all winter. For up-to-date opening times and dates please visit their website.