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Description
Calke Abbey is a historic estate in Derbyshire. You can explore acres of historic parkland. A third of the historic Calke Abbey Estate is recognised as a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. This ancient wood pasture and its historic avenues are home to over 650 veteran trees, more than half of which are considered ancient. Many of the trees in the park are thought to be over 400 years old. These ancient trees are a mix of species, such as limes, field maples, ash, beech and chestnuts, as well as oak. The ‘Old Man of Calke’ is perhaps the most well-known ancient veteran tree with an estimated 1,200 years old.
The grasslands, bushes, old trees, ponds and lakes attract a variety of birds. Birds you can observe include Toppdykker, Dvergdykker, Mandarinand, Flaggspett, Grønnspett, Spettmeis, Isfugl, Spurvehauk, Stjertmeis, Bjørkefink, Grønnfink, Vintererle and Duetrost.
Details
Access
Calke Abbey is located near the village of Ticknall, 10 miles south of the city of Derby. On A514 at Ticknall between Swadlincote and Melbourne. Access from M42/A42 exit 13 and A50 Derby South. Entry via Ticknall main entrance only. Press P on the map for directions to the parking. No parking charge, but per person admission price applies. Visitors to Calke Abbey can explore both the house and the extensive parkland. The admission fee to the Parkland and Gardens is £ 8.50, to the House £ 15.00 (2026). There are many signposted trails to explore the park. The 5 km circular trail shown on the map is just one of the options.
The estate also includes a café and shop. At the far end of the car park you can find a bird hide. It has a good variety of birds that come onto the feeders and into the surrounding bushes and trees.