Get playful with '50 things' at Calke Abbey

No. 1 Get to know a tree

You’ll find amazing trees around every corner at Calke, and some of them are over 1000 years old! Feel the rough bark under your fingers, explore the insides of a tree, or take a closer look at some of the deadwood at Calke – it’s home to lots of important minibeasts. What will you spot?

No. 2 Roll down a really big hill

The Pleasure Grounds outside the house are ideal for rolling down. Simply lie back in the grass, give the clouds a wave – and roll! Great fun for everyone.

No. 4 Build a den

It’s time to get hands-on! Head over to Serpentine Wood, collect some great big sticks and build yourself an awesome den. All in a day’s work!

No. 9 Eat a picnic in the wild

Everyone loves a picnic, so pack up those blankets, sarnies and sausage rolls, and head over to Calke for a lunchtime treat.

Ragg’s close, the open space beyond the park entry hut, is a popular spot for picnickers. We’ve also got plenty of picnic benches close to the main car park.

No. 11 Explore on wheels

Feel the wind in your hair on a family bike ride along the Tramway Trail, Calke’s relatively flat, circular cycle route.

No. 16 Wear a wild crown

Time to get creative! Keep your eyes peeled for nature’s best materials, such as fallen leaves, sticks and flowers. The woodland is a great spot for crown crafts.

No. 24 Go barefoot

The Walled Garden is a great open space to kick off your shoes, run free and feel the long grass between your toes.

No. 31 Make friends with a bug

Calke is home to lots of bugs, beetles and butterflies – you’ll be able to spot lots near the ponds or in the Flower Garden.

No. 44 Watch a bird

The best place to see our regular winged visitors is in the bird hide at the far end of the main car park. Take a seat and see who’s popping in for a bit of food.

No. 50 Take a friend on a nature adventure

Had a great adventure at Calke? Share the fun and enjoy your favourite challenges over and over again. The adventures never need to end!