Staunton Harold Reservoir, created in 1964, plays a vital role in supplying water to communities in Leicester and the East Midlands. Managed by Severn Trent and the National Trust, this 209-acre reservoir evolved from one of Calke Abbey’s six ponds. The reservoir offers picturesque walks, ideal for leisurely strolls or more energetic hikes to Calke … Read more
The Smithy in Calke Abbey offers a glimpse into the estate’s working past. Once needed to keep farm equipment, tools, and horseshoes in good repair, the ancient forge is fitted out with original bellows, an anvil, and a much-worked hearth. Look inside and imagine the smell, noise, and sensation of the blacksmith’s work, where iron … Read more
Calke Abbey’s Deer Park, a sprawling historic landscape, offers a captivating journey into nature. Home to herds of red and fallow deer, it provides a glimpse into a traditional parkland setting. Ancient trees dot the landscape, creating a haven for wildlife. Visitors can explore the walking trail around the deer park witnessing seasonal changes and … Read more
Staunton Harold Reservoir is a scenic 210-acre reservoir in Melbourne, Derbyshire. In 2018, the reservoir experienced significantly low water levels due to drought conditions. Currently, the reservoir is at 88.8% capacity, a stark contrast to the drought year. You can enjoy bird watching, sailing, and walking trails. It features a visitor centre, wildflower meadow, and … Read more
Calke Abbey, a National Trust gem in Ticknall, Derbyshire, offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era. This ‘un-stately home’ is preserved as found, showcasing the fascinating decline of a country estate. Explore its unrestored rooms, discover hidden collections, and wander through its beautiful, yet faded, walled gardens and orangery. With its vast parkland, Calke … Read more
Serpentine Wood, nestled within Calke Abbey’s vast Deer Park, offers a captivating natural experience. Wander through ancient woodlands, particularly stunning during spring’s bluebell bloom. The Deer Park, home to red and fallow deer, provides a glimpse into a historic landscape. Observe these magnificent animals within their natural habitat. Explore diverse trails, encountering veteran trees and … Read more
Ticknall, nestled in South Derbyshire, is a village steeped in history. Mentioned in the Domesday Book, it flourished as an estate village serving Calke Abbey. Its past is rich with industry, from lime quarries to potteries, leaving a legacy of heritage. Today, Ticknall offers a peaceful retreat with its historic architecture and scenic surroundings. Visitors … Read more
Melbourne Pool Melbourne Pool, dating back to 1845, is a picturesque mill pool landscaped for Lord Melbourne. Overlooking Melbourne Hall, this 20-acre pool offers scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. It is a place to feed the ducks, admire the scenery, and enjoy the historic setting. The pool provides a beautiful foreground to Melbourne Hall … Read more
Calke Abbey, steeped in centuries of history, holds an atmosphere that many find profoundly evocative. Within its preserved, time-worn walls and sprawling grounds, visitors have reported a sense of lingering presence. Feelings of unease, unexplained sounds, and even sightings of shadowy figures contribute to the abbey’s reputation as a place where the past seems unusually … Read more
Ticknall, a charming village nestled in Derbyshire, England. It is renowned for its vibrant Scarecrow Festival. Each year, the village transforms into a whimsical wonderland, with many creatively crafted scarecrows adorning gardens, fields, and even rooftops. This unique community event attracts visitors from far and wide. They come to celebrate creativity, local talent, and the … Read more