Calke Abbey ‘the house that time forgot’ is probably the most unusual country house and estate you will ever have the opportunity to visit – where time stopped in the 1920s. It was little known even in the locality until a campaign was started in 1982 to persuade the government to accept the house for the nation in settlement of some £8million transfer tax. The second largest country house in Derbyshire after Chatsworth, it had been in the same ownership since its construction between 1701-1704. Having once mixed with Royalty and the social élite, the Harpur-Crewe family became notoriously reclusive, eccentric even. The extensive parkland around the house was planted so that no public viewpoint was available. Cars were banned from the estate for many years, and mains electricity was not installed until 1961. Less and less of the house was occupied and the house fell into disrepair.
A baroque mansion set in a stunning landscape park, Calke Abbey has become famous as a graphic illustration of the English country house in decline, with interiors that are essentially unchanged since the 1880s. The National Trust has carried out only essential repairs to keep the property, as far as possible, in the state that it was left. As a result the visitor finds a remarkable picture of a grand country house in decline, as well as an incredible collection of hunting trophies, shells, paintings and taxidermy. The house also contains a magnificent 18th-century Chinese Silk state bed which was a wedding present from the King and Queen in 1714, but apparently never unpacked until rediscovered by the National Trust: it is in mint condition!
The open parkland is managed for its nature conservation value and the attractive grounds feature a recently restored Orangery set in the beautiful walled garden. Here the visitor may also explore the only surviving Auricula Theatre and an interesting collection of garden buildings. Elsewhere within the parkland is an enormous stable block with a display of family and estate carriages, as well as the family church. Come, experience the magic of Calke: a day out you will never forget.
Rosliston Forestry Centre was the first of the many new visitor centres within The National Forest, opening in 1994. Set in 154 acres of walks and cycle trails there is plenty for you to see and do, from quiet places to enjoy the countryside, to family-fun activities like crazy golf, fishing, orienteering trails, cycle hire and special events. For the less active the centre includes craft outlets and a restaurant with outstanding views.
Follow one of the waymarked walks and begin to discover the many species of birds and animals for yourselves. Kestrels, kingfishers, skylarks and buntings are just some of the birds that have made their home here - perhaps watch them feed from the purpose-built all-abilities wildlife hide? Birds of Prey displays are a regular feature at Rosliston Forestry Centre.
120,000 trees were planted on the site between 1994 and 1996, creating a young woodland that is already making an impact on the landscape. In Fox Covert you will find rich and varied mature trees and hedgerows which show how the rest of the area will look in years to come.
Hay meadows have been left unplanted and in the summer months are rich with butterflies and other insects. Numerous species of waterfowl make good use of the Flight Pond and Greenheart Lake.
Swadlincote Ski and Snowboard Centre operated by John Nike Leisuresport is open throughout the year for recreational skiing, snowboarding and blading with lessons available for every standard. The 160 metre main slope is the longest in the midlands. Both it and the separate nursery slope are serviced with Poma lifts, and floodlights are in operation after daylight hours.
The Cresta Run Toboggan, appealing to all age groups, offers an exhilarating run of 650m winding its way down the slopes and is the only one of its kind in the Midlands. Children can combine the activity with birthday celebrations and adults a dining package that includes Umpah nights, traditional Fondues and Raclettes.
The superb Alpine Restaurant overlooks the slopes and the action, offering a wide choice of popular foods plus a range of packaged activities geared to businesses, schools, clubs, groups and celebratory parties. Wedding receptions are a specialty.
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