Calke Abbey

This baroque mansion, built 1701-4 and set in a stunning landscape park, has become famous as a graphic illustration of the English country house in decline. Little restored, the house contains the spectacular natural history collection of the Harpur Crewe family, as well as a magnificent 18th-century state bed and interiors that are essentially unchanged since the 1880s. The open parkland is managed for its nature conservation value and the attractive grounds feature a beautiful walled garden, including a flower garden, physic garden and Auricula Theatre as well as an interesting collection of garden buildings.

All visitors (inc. NT members) require a house and garden (or garden only) ticket from the ticket office. At busy times these will be timed tickets. Delays in entry to house are possible at BHols. The house, church and garden are closed on Thurs 10, Fri 11 & Sat 12 Aug for annual concert. One-way system operates in the park; access only via Ticknall entrance.