Where can my dog go?
Dogs are welcome to enjoy the 600-acre parkland, gardens, stableyards and Calke Explore.
We also welcome dogs in the stableyard café near the ticket office, open at weekends, bank holidays and school holidays. Please note the main restaurant remains open for assistance dogs only.
Dogs can be off-lead in many areas of the estate, as long as they’re under close control. Download our dog-walking guide at the end of this page to find out where your dog can roam free.
We define ‘close control’ as:
- Being able to recall your dog in any situation at the first call.
- Being able to clearly see your dog at all times. In practice, this means keeping them on a footpath if the surrounding vegetation is too dense for your dog to be visible.
- Not allowing them to approach other visitors without their consent.
- Having a lead with you to use if you encounter livestock, wildlife, or you are asked to use one.
We’re lucky enough to have lots of livestock grazing around the estate, including a flock of sheep and a herd of long-horn cattle. Livestock can often be found on the meadows, the historic drive and Lime Avenue – please help up protect the animals by keeping your dog on a lead and under control in areas where we have livestock.
Where can’t my dog go?
Only assistance dogs are allowed inside the house, restaurant, shop, toilets and church – please make sure they’re wearing an identity harness. There are some tether points just outside the restaurant courtyard if you need to pop inside for a few minutes.
Please be aware that we’re unable to provide shaded parking at Calke Abbey. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a car can become very hot. We ask that you keep your dog safe and do not leave them in the car.
