A brew at Calke Abbey

A nice strong brew accompanied by a gluten free lemon and sultana cookie. The National Trust make a mighty fine brew but I feel I could have done with something ceramic to put it in. Are they low on members that we have to result to paper cups now? Sorry not being snobby but I got a cup and saucer at Kedleston Hall!

The cafe at Calke Abbey is very nice with plenty of refreshments and snacks. There is plenty of room to sit inside or outside on a fine day. Just next door to the cafe is a full restaurant with a larger choice of meals to suit and again plenty of space to sit and enjoy your food.

It never was actually an abbey as it's name states but the grade 1 listed building is classed as a baroque mansion built between 1701 and 1704. It stands in a beautiful estate situated in the Derbyshire village of Ticknall. The estate boasts acres of land, great for walking and there are gardens to visit too. Since taking over Calke The National Trust have tended to concentrate heavily on nature conservation. There is a 'blooming' great flower garden (see what I did there?), a kitchen garden, orangery and a deer park so plenty to see.

The house it's self is accessible to view and has received quite a fair amount of remedial work to it. Before the National took over the house in the 80's everything had remained untouched since the 1880's. There are rooms still left untouched so it is worth a visit and to discover it's history.

It was a busy day at Calke Abbey and an even busier one for the bride and groom having their special day there. A full wedding party in full swing and what a day they had. So lucky with the weather and  beautiful surroundings in which to hold your nuptials. A very popular place and I can see why. Apart from not having cups and saucers which I kind of understand, easier on the washing up I suppose or maybe all the pots were being used at the wedding. Who knows, but it wouldn't stop me visiting again. We are so lucky here to have all this beauty right here on our doorstop which we tend to take for granted.

That's why I have become a National Trust member, apart from a good excuse to roam around stately homes and castles drinking lots of tea I thought I would actually take in the great British country side and explore my own land. I'm glad I have because it's stunning. 

If you would like more information on Calke Abbey or any other National Trust places you can visit their website at:
www.nationaltrust.org.uk 

Thank you for reading today, do come back tomorrow for 'Whatever Wednesday'.

Take care for now.......