Our beautiful county of Derbyshire is filled with pretty places, stunning spaces that make great visits out, especially on a warm summer’s day.
One such place that is not on many people’s radar is Ticknall.
Quirky name aside, Ticknall is a South Derbyshire village just 12 miles and 30 minutes away from Derby city centre.
The characterful village set in an unspoilt country location has a rich history.
Ticknall had a flourishing pottery industry for two hundred years, from approximately 1500 to 1700.
Competition from neighbouring Stoke-on-Trent was the final nail in the coffin on the Ticknall pottery industry that was already on its knees.
The final Ticknall pottery shuttered in the late 1800s.
Today, if you spot any pottery emblazoned with Ticknall Ware you could own a slice of Derbyshire history.
As well as offering jaw-dropping views across Derbyshire, quirky Ticknall boasts an enchanting fairytale country home with a twist.
Calke Abbey is a striking National Trust country house estate set among 600 acres of countryside and lush greenery.
A day out at Calke Abbey will undoubtedly be like no other thanks to the fascinating heritage of the building.
Step foot in Calke Abbey and you will feel magically transported back in time.
Unlike your usual grand country house that has been lavishly decorated, Calke Abbey’s elegant decline means peeling paintwork and crumbling plaster sits comfortably next to rooms that have had the 21st century treatment.
It can often feel as if you are in the ancient castle of Beauty & The Beast where time has stood still in the 18th century fairytale by French novelist Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve.
Great pains have been taken to preserve the past.
This is evidenced by personal family belongings lying in rooms as if inhabitants had only just left the room - not three decades ago.
Here is a selection of photos from Calke Abbey, have you visited yet? We would love to hear your thoughts, get in touch by emailing [email protected] and we’ll take a look.
. Calke Abbey
Calke Abbey may look somewhat neglected compared to the likes of Chatsworth, but the grand country house near Ticknall provides a fascinating insight into the lives of some of Derbyshire’s wealthiest figures. There is also an outdoor recreation area - Calke Explore - situated in the grounds. Photo: cc-by-sa/2.0 - © Alan Murray-Rust - geograph.org.uk/p/5860693
9. Calke Abbey
The garden is also filled with tropical looking trees similar to palm trees, giving rise to a proper vacation feel. | Ria Ghei
10. Calke Abbey
The historic parkland is also home to gorgeous flower beds bursting in bloom, plus ancient oaks and secluded ponds. | Ria Ghei
11. Calke Abbey
The 19th century ice house is built in a brick-lined tunnel formation. | Ria Ghei
12. Calke Abbey
The gardens are a must-visit for flower enthusiasts. An admission fee applies to enter the gardens and house, see more on the National Trust website for charges. | Ria Ghei