Foremark Reservoir, near Swadlincote, is a popular destination offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Created in the 1970s, it provides a vital water supply for the region. Surrounded by woodland and open countryside, the reservoir attracts walkers, birdwatchers, and anglers. Its shores are home to diverse wildlife, and the water itself supports … Read more
Carvers Rocks is a stunning nature reserve at the southern edge of Foremark Reservoir in South Derbyshire. The site features dramatic gritstone outcrops shaped by erosion over thousands of years. It is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its rare wetland and heathland habitats. The reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including … Read more
The Ticknall Tramway and Limeyards offer a fascinating glimpse into the industrial past of this South Derbyshire village. Built in the late 18th century, the tramway was a pioneering horse-drawn railway used to transport limestone. This valuable resource was quarried from the nearby limeyards, a hive of activity where stone was processed into lime for … Read more
The gardens at Calke Abbey offer a captivating glimpse into the estate’s rich horticultural heritage. The kitchen garden, with its aged walls and weathered glasshouses, evokes a sense of faded grandeur. The flower garden bursts with vibrant, seasonal blooms, while the tranquil physic garden reveals a fascinating collection of medicinal plants once used for healing. … Read more
Pleasure grounds are ornamental gardens or landscaped areas designed for leisurely enjoyment, often found around stately homes, country estates, or grand houses. They were particularly popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, influenced by the English landscape garden movement. Unlike formal gardens, which were symmetrical and highly manicured, pleasure grounds were typically more naturalistic and … Read more
St Giles’ Church, nestled within Calke Abbey’s grounds, offers a serene historical glimpse into the past. Originally a parish church for the village of Calke between 1160 and 1834, it’s now a private chapel. Notably, St Giles was a ‘peculiar’, exempt from the Bishop’s jurisdiction, a status abolished in the 1800s. The church today is … Read more
The old stables at Calke Abbey are a complex of buildings with a rich history. The stately brick stables were built in 1712-1716 by William Gilkes of Burton. The riding school was likely added between 1730 and 1770 by Joseph Pickford. The stable block consists of four ranges around a courtyard and features a two-story … Read more
Sunsets, those fleeting moments of fiery hues and soft pastels, hold a universal allure. They paint the sky with a masterpiece of colours, signalling the day’s end and the promise of twilight. People are drawn to their beauty, finding solace and wonder in the ever-changing canvas above. Sunsets offer a moment to pause, reflect, and … Read more
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 Ferrers Centre for Arts & Crafts, located in the beautiful setting of Staunton Harold, is a hub for creativity and heritage. Housed in historic stable buildings, it features independent artisan workshops, galleries, and a tearoom. Visitors can explore handmade crafts, fine art, and bespoke gifts while enjoying the charm of this inspiring creative community. … Read more