Welcome to Calke

Calke Abbey is a unique and fascinating place located in Derbyshire, England. The estate was once home to the Harpur family, who lived there for over 300 years. The house itself is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture, with stunning gardens and parkland surrounding it. The estate is now owned by the National Trust, who have preserved the house and its contents, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Harpur family and the history of the estate.

One of the most interesting things about Calke Abbey is the way it has been preserved. The National Trust has deliberately left the house and its contents in a state of disrepair, giving visitors a sense of what it would have been like to live there in the past. The peeling wallpaper, dusty rooms, and cluttered spaces all add to the atmosphere of the house, making it feel like a time capsule. The estate also has a fascinating collection of taxidermy, which was once considered a fashionable hobby among the wealthy. The collection includes everything from a giant moose to a tiny mouse, and is a testament to the Harpur family's love of nature.

Calke Abbey is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, badgers, and bats. The estate has several nature trails that visitors can explore, giving them the chance to see these animals in their natural habitat. The parkland surrounding the house is also home to a variety of trees, including ancient oaks and beeches. The estate is a beautiful place to visit at any time of year, but is particularly stunning in the autumn when the leaves turn golden and red. Overall, Calke Abbey is a unique and fascinating place that offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the natural world.