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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.

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Meet the children of the Harpur Crewe family in our nurseries through a series of photos, supported by CEWE.

See large scale photographs of two generations of children who called Calke Abbey home. Explore the photobooks to find out more about them, and spend time in the nurseries as the Harpur Crewe children would have done.

Sit and read a book, try your hand at a jigsaw and imagine riding around the park as you have a go on the small rocking horse. The children enjoyed putting on plays and dances, and you can give it a go too! Discover a real costume worn by one of the Harpur Crewe daughters. Step into the spotlight as you try on one of our matching dressing up outfits and act out your own play.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

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

Check admission prices

The basics

Accessibility

The nurseries are located on the second floor of the house which is only accessible by staircase, meaning this exhibit is not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or buggies. The nearest toilets are at the Stableyards. Fidget toys and ear defenders are available in the Entrance Hall of the house.

Meeting point

Head inside the house and ask for directions to the nurseries.

Suitability for children

Suitable for all ages.

What to bring and wear

Large bags are not permitted in the house, but there are lockers available if you wish to store one while you explore.

Upcoming events

Pokémon joins Calke Abbey's Summer of Play 

Planning your summer holidays? Unleash your energy with the National Trust's Summer of Play supported by Pokémon.

Event summary

on
5 Aug to 6 Sep 2026
at 09:00 to 17:00+ 32 other dates or times

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
5 Aug to 1 Nov 2026
at 09:30 to 16:00+ 88 other dates or times

Herbarium Conservation in Action 

Discover Calke Abbey's historic 19th century herbarium and watch conservation work happening in real time, with the chance to ask the conservator questions and find out more about the history of the collection.

Event summary

on
5 Aug 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00

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
5 Aug to 1 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 16:00+ 88 other dates or times