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 various aquatic species. With accessible paths and scenic views, Foremark Reservoir offers a peaceful escape and opportunities for outdoor enjoyment in South Derbyshire.

Foremark Reservoir

Foremark Reservoir has a capacity of approximately 6,140 million gallons and reaches a maximum depth of around 70 feet. Its construction involved building an earth embankment dam to impound water. Water is primarily pumped from the River Dove to fill and replenish the reservoir. From Foremark, water is then transferred onwards to the nearby Staunton Harold Reservoir. This interconnected system ensures a reliable water supply for the surrounding areas in Derbyshire and Leicestershire. The engineering behind the reservoir is a crucial aspect of its function.

Foremark Reservoir Facilities

Foremark Reservoir offers visitor facilities including convenient parking and accessible toilets. The National Trust operates a popular refreshment kiosk, providing drinks and snacks. Families can also enjoy the dedicated children’s play area. Picnic areas are available for enjoying the scenic surroundings. For recreation, there are marked walking trails around the reservoir and opportunities for birdwatching. While swimming and boating are restricted to protect the water supply and wildlife, the focus is on enjoying the natural environment through walking and observation. Parking is available on-site, with charges applicable. National Trust members can park free of charge. The car park is locked by 8 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. For a detailed map and more information, you can refer to the National Trust’s resources on Foremark.

Burton Sailing Club at Foremark Reservoir

Foremark Reservoir is home to an active sailing club, offering racing and recreational sailing for various skill levels. Members enjoy regular racing events and likely benefit from training opportunities. A range of dinghy classes can be seen on the water. The club provides a social environment for sailing enthusiasts and essential facilities for its members.

Bays and Benches at Foremark Reservoir

Visitors are welcome to bring picnics and enjoy them throughout the nature reserve. There are formal picnic areas with benches provided and also hidden bays along the woodland walk. Dogs are welcome at Foremark and can explore various woodland and waterside routes. They can be off-lead in many areas if under close control but should be kept on short leads around car parks, visitor facilities, playgrounds, picnic benches, and along the bridleway, which is a multi-use route often used by horse riders. Dogs are not allowed in the water due to potential dangers such as blue-green algae.

Woodland Trail at Foremark Reservoir

The woodland surrounding Foremark Reservoir offers a delightful contrast to the open water, providing varied habitats and scenic walking trails. These woodlands are a mix of both established and more recently planted areas, creating a diverse environment for wildlife and offering different experiences for walkers. The trail at the southern end of the reservoir hugs the shoreline offering lovely views across to the dam. Delve deeper into the woodland to see ancient trees with paths leading through the dappled shade to the water below.

Carvers Rocks, located at the southern tip of the reservoir, is recognised as an SSSI for its valuable geology and plant life, including one of Derbyshire’s last patches of lowland heath adorned with blooming heather.

A Circular Walk around Foremark Reservoir

Enjoy a scenic circular walk around Foremark Reservoir. Cross Dragonfly Bridge at the southern end of the reservoir and follow the footpath to a road alongside Repton Scrubs. Continue through the natural beauty of Repton Common before returning to the reservoir’s main entrance via the Ticknall to Milton road. This route offers varied landscapes and opportunities to appreciate the area’s wildlife and tranquillity. The walk is around 4.5 miles in length but does not follow the shoreline on the east side of the reservoir. The walk is not waymarked so kit yourself out with the appropriate OS Map.

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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 dragonflies, woodpeckers, and rare plants. Managed by the National Trust, Carvers Rocks offers scenic trails through woodland, marsh, and open heath.

The Origin of the Name Carvers Rocks

Carvers Rocks was historically known as Repton Rocks in 1836 and later as Dawson’s Rocks, possibly linked to the Dawson family of Repton Waste Farm. The current name is believed to come from Lawrence Carver of Ticknall, born in 1701, or his family. Another theory suggests the name derives from the weathered, carved appearance of the gritstone formations. Over time, the local association with the Carver name took hold, shaping the identity of this striking Derbyshire landscape. Other names may have included Lowes Rocks and Hartshorn Rocks.

The Geology of Carvers Rocks

Carvers Rocks’ dramatic presence is rooted in geology. Formed during the Carboniferous period, around 300 million years ago, they are part of the Millstone Grit series. These layers of coarse-grained sandstone were deposited by vast river systems flowing across what was then a tropical region. Over millions of years, subsequent layers of sediment buried the gritstone, which then solidified under pressure. Later tectonic activity and erosion by ice and water sculpted the landscape, eventually exposing these resistant gritstone outcrops we see today. Unlike softer sandstones, gritstone contains larger quartz grains, making it more resistant to erosion, leading to the sculpted formations visible today.

Carver Rocks SSSI

Carvers Rocks SSSI, features a mosaic of habitats that support a diverse range of wildlife. The acidic grasslands and heathland provide a habitat for species such as the common lizard, butterflies, and moths. Ancient oak and birch woodlands shelter woodland birds, while buzzards and kestrels soar overhead. The rocky outcrops host specialist lichens and mosses, thriving in the exposed conditions.

Wetland patches and the Foremark Reservoir fringe attract waterfowl, including the Great Crested Grebe. Marshy areas support dragonflies, damselflies, and rare plants like bog asphodel and sundew. Seasonal highlights include spring bluebells and autumn fungi, making Carvers Rocks a vital site for biodiversity and conservation.

Heathland at Carvers Rocks

At Carvers Rocks, the upper regions feature a rare patch of lowland heath, characterised by heather (Calluna vulgaris) and acidic grassland communities. This habitat is uncommon in Derbyshire, making it ecologically significant. The thin, nutrient-poor soils atop the gritstone formations support heather, which blooms vibrantly in late summer and early autumn. This heathland provides habitat for various invertebrates, including butterflies and moths, and reptiles like the common lizard. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining this delicate ecosystem due to its rarity and biodiversity value.

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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. Together, these gardens provide a peaceful retreat, brimming with history and natural beauty.

The Flower Garden at Calke Abbey

Calke Abbey’s flower garden, a testament to Lady Georgiana’s passion, offers a captivating glimpse into historical horticultural practices. Built in 1856 the garden features a unique auricula theatre thought to be England’s oldest surviving example. This meticulously maintained space, with its original Victorian layout, is “bedded out” twice yearly, mirroring 1850s techniques. The garden features Victorian-era glasshouses, which were used to grow exotic plants and extend the flowering season. Throughout the year, the flower garden bursts with colour – from early spring bulbs to summer roses and vibrant autumnal hues. It provides a serene space for visitors to wander, while also offering a glimpse into the horticultural tastes and traditions of the estate’s former owners.

The Kitchen Garden at Calke Abbey

Looking out across the expansive green lawn, the ghostly outlines of former garden beds whisper tales of Calke Abbey’s industrious past. This was once a thriving kitchen garden, a vital source of fruit, vegetables, and flowers for the household. More than just a place of production, it served as a tranquil retreat for the family.

On colder days, the family would seek refuge in the heated orangery, with its distinctive arched windows, surrounded by exotic plants.

The garden’s vibrant purpose faded after the Second World War, and by the 1970s, it had been ploughed up for pasture, leaving behind only the subtle contours we see today. These faint remnants, now softened by time and grass, serve as a poignant reminder of Calke’s heyday and the self-sufficient lifestyle it once embodied.

The Physic Garden at Calke Abbey

The Physic Garden at Calke Abbey is a fascinating glimpse into the estate’s working past. In the late 1700s, it was a practical space where herbs were cultivated for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Glasshouses and heated frames were later introduced, allowing the gardeners to grow vegetables and exotic fruits year-round, including cucumbers, melons, grapes, and even pineapples. This productive garden was largely functional, with the family unlikely to visit.

Today, the Physic Garden remains the main productive garden. It is now home to areas dedicated to cut flowers, vegetables, herbs, and soft fruits, as well as orchards of apples and plums. In spring, the garden comes to life with neatly arranged rows of emerging plants, promising an abundant harvest later in the year. Despite its practical purpose, it offers a peaceful, rustic beauty, with pathways lined by lavender and bordered by neatly pruned fruit bushes.

Scarecrows in the Physic Garden at Calke Abbey

The scarecrows in the Physic Garden at Calke Abbey are a charming and playful feature, adding a touch of whimsy to the historic, working garden. They are created by the garden team and volunteers, often dressed in period-style or rustic clothing, giving them a characterful, old-world charm. These scarecrows serve a practical purpose by deterring birds from feasting on the fruit and vegetable crops, but they also contribute to the garden’s storytelling, evoking the spirit of its agricultural past.

Throughout the year, the scarecrows sometimes take on seasonal themes, reflecting events or changes in the garden. Their presence adds to the Physic Garden’s quaint, lived-in atmosphere, making it feel like a working, yet slightly enchanted, part of the estate.

The Vinery in the Physic Garden at Calke Abbey

The Vinery in one of the glasshouses at Calke Abbey’s Physic Garden is a fascinating remnant of the estate’s productive past. Built to cultivate grapevines, it reflects the Georgian and Victorian-era fascination with growing exotic fruits in England’s temperate climate. The glasshouse, with its heated frames and controlled environment, allowed the gardeners to extend the growing season and produce plump, sweet grapes for the family’s table—an impressive luxury at the time.

Grape Varieties Grown in the Vinery

The Vinery in the Physic Garden at Calke Abbey is home to several historic and distinctive grape varieties, each with its own unique characteristics:

Buckland Sweetwater – A traditional English dessert grape, Buckland Sweetwater was popular in Victorian glasshouses for its sweet, juicy flavour and pale green skin. It ripens early, making it well-suited to the temperamental British climate, and was prized for its delicate sweetness.

Leon Millot – This red grape variety originated in France and is known for its early ripening and disease resistance, making it ideal for cooler climates. It produces deeply coloured grapes often used in winemaking, with rich, fruity notes and a hint of spice.

Seyval Blanc – A white grape variety, Seyval Blanc is widely grown in the UK due to its ability to thrive in cooler conditions. It produces crisp, refreshing white wines with citrus and apple notes, making it a favourite among English vineyards.

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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 picturesque. The idea was to create a setting that felt both cultivated and a little wild, offering a sense of romance and escape. Pleasure grounds were meant for gentle recreation—walking, socializing, and contemplating nature – rather than practical use, like kitchen gardens or working farmland.

The Pleasure Grounds at Calke Abbey

The pleasure grounds at Calke Abbey reflect the romantic elegance of 18th-century landscape design. Winding paths lead past lush lawns, ancient trees, and ornamental planting, creating a tranquil space for leisurely strolls. Highlights include the Grotto and the Ice House, adding a sense of mystery and charm. A sundial near the house offers a timeless focal point, while the scenic, naturalistic setting makes the grounds perfect for gentle recreation and quiet contemplation.

The Grotto at Calke Abbey

The Grotto at Calke Abbey is a charming 18th-century garden feature, designed as a rustic retreat within the pleasure grounds. Built from local stone, its weathered, cave-like structure offers a secluded spot for quiet reflection. Once a fashionable addition to romantic landscapes, the Grotto now adds a touch of mystery and nostalgia to Calke’s historic gardens.

The Ice House at Calke Abbey

The Ice House at Calke Abbey is a historic, subterranean structure once used to store ice for preserving food. Built into a shaded bank, its domed brick chamber kept ice frozen well into summer. A testament to 18th-century ingenuity, the Ice House offers a glimpse into the estate’s past, blending practicality with the charm of the surrounding pleasure grounds.

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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 Abbey and beyond. The paths meander through varied landscapes, including wildflower meadows and woodland areas. The site, managed by the National Trust, features a visitor centre and a dog-friendly café serving light refreshments. The café offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

Sailing at Staunton Harold Sailing Club

Staunton Harold Sailing Club (SHSC), formed in 1974, is known for being a friendly, and one of the best sailing clubs in the country. The club offers training and has a wide range of boats for hire. It provides opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding and has a fully equipped galley and bar. Regular sailing sessions, races, and events are organized throughout the year. Qualified instructors offer lessons and guidance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience.

Wildlife at Staunton Harold Reservoir

Staunton Harold Reservoir is a haven for diverse wildlife, attracting birdwatchers with its various bird species, especially during migration. The reservoir’s varied habitats, including wetlands and woodlands, provide excellent opportunities for observing waterfowl and other animals throughout the year.

The reservoir attracts numerous waterfowl, particularly swans and geese. Mute swans glide gracefully, often nesting along the shores, while Canada geese graze on the surrounding grasslands. Throughout the year, visitors can observe these birds in their natural habitat, adding to the reservoir’s serene beauty and wildlife appeal.

The Tower Windmill at Staunton Harold Reservoir

The Tower Windmill, an iconic landmark at Staunton Harold Reservoir, seen here at sunset, stands as a testament to the area’s agricultural past. Though no longer operational, its sturdy brick structure and distinctive cap remain a captivating sight. Overlooking the reservoir, the windmill offers a picturesque backdrop for visitors. It’s a reminder of the historical significance of wind power in the region and a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a glimpse into the past. The windmill contributes to the serene and historically rich atmosphere of the reservoir.

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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 the serene beauty of this preserved natural space.

The first photo captures a young deer standing attentively in Calke Abbey Deer Park. The deer, with its slender legs and smooth, brown coat, faces the viewer directly. Its ears are perked, and its dark eyes convey a sense of gentle alertness. The deer’s form is highlighted by a soft, golden light, the sun setting behind it, which creates a warm halo around its silhouette. The background shows glimpses of other deer and a mix of dry grass and patches of light, suggesting a natural, outdoor setting within the deer park.

The second photo depicts three deer in Calke Abbey Deer Park, captured during the soft light of a setting sun. The deer are spread across a slightly frosted, grassy landscape, their varying shades of brown blending with the natural tones of the park. The foreground deer is bent down, grazing, while the other two stand in the midground, their forms silhouetted against the hazy background of trees. The overall scene conveys a sense of peacefulness and the natural beauty of the park at twilight.

The last photo captures a solitary deer standing in Calke Abbey Deer Park, bathed in the soft, warm light of a setting sun. The deer, with its slender build and alert expression, stands on a slightly uneven, grassy terrain. The ground is dappled with patches of sunlight and shadow, highlighting the textures of the dry grass and scattered branches. In the background, a dense woodland area creates a dark, contrasting backdrop, with the bare branches of the trees silhouetted against the fading light.

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The Fish Pond at Staunton Harold

The Fish Pond on Staunton Harold Estate offered a beautiful composition on this particular Sunday afternoon. The soft winter light created an almost mirror-like reflection of the surrounding trees on the water’s surface. The subtle colours and textures of the landscape, along with the human element of the walkers in the distance, all came together to form this pleasing image. I was particularly drawn to the contrast between the bare branches of the deciduous trees and the dark foliage of the evergreens.

Staunton Harold Church

Staunton Harold Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Trinity, is a magnificent testament to 17th-century architecture. Bathed in sunlight, the warm, weathered stone of the tower contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green landscape and clear blue sky. Intricate details, from the arched windows to the crenelated rooftop, hint at the rich history within. A true gem amidst the rolling hills of Leicestershire. The church is under the care of the National Trust.

Church Pool at Staunton Harold

A magnificent Cedar of Lebanon dominates the landscape at Staunton Harold’s Church Pool. Its sprawling branches reaching out against a backdrop of a bright, partly cloudy sky. The still waters of the pool reflect the surrounding trees and the undulations of the distant hills. The lush green of the grassy bank in the foreground leads the eye towards the small causeway in the midground. The composition captures the serene beauty and timeless quality of this historic estate.

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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 a children’s play area. Open daily, it offers amenities like clean toilets, a National Trust café, and picnic benches. Parking is available and is free for National Trust members.

Staunton Harold Reservoir – The Drought of 2018

The first photo captures Staunton Harold Reservoir during that 2018 drought. The water level is noticeably low, exposing dry, cracked earth and meandering channels where the reservoir would usually be. In the foreground, water spills over a small weir, contrasting with the parched landscape beyond. Trees on either side frame the scene, with the warm tones of an early autumn day.

Staunton Harold Reservoir March 2025

The recent photo of Staunton Harold Reservoir on the right shows a striking contrast to the 2018 drought image. The water level is fully restored, stretching across the landscape with a calm, reflective surface. In the foreground, water spills over a weir, creating a frothy cascade. The surrounding trees have a mix of bare branches and early signs of spring growth, while the sky is clear with soft, wispy clouds. The scene highlights the reservoir’s recovery and the seasonal shift.

The Original Course of Scots Brook Revealed

The next image captures the stark landscape of Staunton Harold Reservoir during that same drought. Revealing the normally submerged Scots Brook returning to its original course. The reservoir’s water level is significantly reduced, exposing a broad expanse of dry, cracked earth interspersed with patches of green grass. A narrow stream of water, the Scots Brook, meanders through the parched landscape. In the foreground, an old structure, possibly once part of New England Farm, its remains normally hidden beneath the reservoir’s surface.

Staunton Harold Reservoir – A Glimpse into the Past

This last image offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the old road from Calke to Melbourne, normally submerged beneath the waters of Staunton Harold Reservoir. The exposed road stretches across the dry reservoir bed, a cracked and parched landscape. Remnants of stone walls hint at the route’s former use. Interestingly, I had the opportunity to speak with a local farmer who recalled walking this very road on his way to school in Melbourne. It’s incredible to think about the history embedded in this landscape. This scene is a poignant reminder of the ever-changing nature of the landscape and the enduring impact of human activity.

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The humble crocus, a herald of spring, brings vibrant color to gardens as winter fades. These low-growing perennials burst forth with cup-shaped flowers in hues of purple, yellow, and white. Notably, Crocus sativus yields saffron, a prized spice. Crocuses are hardy, thriving in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Their early blooms provide vital sustenance for pollinators, making them a welcome sight after winter’s slumber.

I spotted this vibrant display of crocuses as I headed off from Ticknall for a walk around Calke Abbey. They carpet the grass with shades of purple, white, and yellow. The flowers are bathed in sunlight, highlighting their delicate petals and rich colours. In the foreground, the textured bark of a sturdy tree trunk adds contrast to the scene, adding a sense of depth. The mix of colours and natural setting creates a bright and cheerful atmosphere, evoking the perfect spring day.

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Calke Abbey’s vast parkland offers a tranquil escape, with 600 acres of historic landscape. Wander through ancient woodlands, past secluded ponds, and observe herds of red and fallow deer. Explore National Nature Reserves, and discover ancient oaks, including the ‘Old Man of Calke.’ Enjoy diverse walking trails, witnessing seasonal changes, from spring’s vibrant blooms to autumn’s rich colors. This parkland is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking peaceful exploration.

Near the entrance kiosk of the Calke Abbey estate stands this grand, tree. I’ve seen it many times but the light was impressive on this particular afternoon. Towering over the winter landscape, its sprawling branches cast long shadows on the ground. The rustic wooden fence surrounding it hints at the potential risk of falling branches, emphasising its age and presence.

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