Skip to content
Skip to content

History Talks in the house

Drop in to listen to a series of volunteer-led talks exploring the varied history of the house at Calke Abbey.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Take a seat in the Study and find out more about Calke's varied history, from the lives of footmen and housemaids to the role of the military and WW2.

No need to book, just drop in. Talks will last approximately 30 minutes. House ticket or membership card is required for entry to the house.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

A buggy service is available to drop visitors off at the front door of the mansion. Step-free access to the study. Manual wheelchairs and walking sticks are available to borrow inside the mansion.

Meeting point

Talks will take place in the Study on the ground floor of the house.

Suitability for children

Aimed at an adult audience but the content is suitable for children.

Other

Assistance dogs only inside the house.

Upcoming events

On Screen at Calke Abbey 

Follow in the footsteps of Tommy Shelby and uncover how 'Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man' was brought to life at Calke Abbey.

Event summary

on
1 Jul to 1 Nov 2026
at 09:30 to 16:00+ 123 other dates or times

Capturing Childhood in the Nurseries at Calke 

Explore the nurseries and meet the Harpur Crewe family through a series of large scale photographs, supported by CEWE. Dress up, play and read as the children would have done.

Event summary

on
1 Jul to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 105 other dates or times

Local Treasure, Global Connections: Museum Room Display 

Discover this year's Museum Room display and take a closer look at Calke’s State Bed hangings. Still in near- perfect condition, these Chinese silk hangings are a treasure of the National Trust.

Event summary

on
1 Jul to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 123 other dates or times

Botanical Watercolour Workshop 

Inspired by Calke's historic herbarium, join artist Kate Dawes for a relaxed botanical illustration class using pen and watercolour.

Event summary

on
2 Jul 2026
at 10:00 to 13:00