Conservation, maintenance and repair

About Conservation, maintenance and repair

Handed to the National Trust in 1985 and sitting in 600 acres of parkland, Calke’s story tells of the dramatic decline of a country house estate. Now, that estate welcomes nearly 40,0000 visitors a year and the paths around the estate encounter a large amount of wear and tear as more and more people discover this incredible place. On this working holiday you’ll be helping to repair and maintain the footpaths, steps and other structures around the estate, essentially giving them a summertime MOT and service to ensure that they’re in good shape for visitors.
The holiday will also include the annual survey and count of the thousands of orchids in the Ticknall Limeyards, which date back to the 15th century. Orchids such as the common spotted orchid, fragrant orchid and common twayblade are flourishing in an area once devoted to limestone quarrying, and the once-yearly survey shows how the habitat is responding to management which includes grazing with a small flock of Hebridean sheep.

About the accommodation

Home Farm used to be the farm manager’s house for the Harpur Crewe family who ran the Calke Estate for many generations prior to the National Trust taking it on in the mid-1980s. This quiet setting gives good out-of-hours access to walks and encounters with the estate wildlife; badgers, deer and bats are all close neighbours. There is a large yard and grass area outside suitable for BBQs and games. Outdoor chairs and tables are provided. There is a well-equipped kitchen, four showers and storage radiators throughout. The nearest pub is a 2-mile walk through the park to Ticknall.

Facilities: garden, drying room.

Bedding: no bedding/linen provided.