Museum in Derby

“Didn't know what a gem this was! Free entry for this place is mad. It has so much to see. There was art, taxidermy, ceramics, history of war room. A cafe on the ground floor too. So much to see and can easily spend a good hour or two here. The staff were pleasant and helpful, too.”

“From day one this hotel was just perfect! The location is spot on – right next to the Derbion with fantastic transport links, making it really convenient. The cleanliness throughout the hotel is impeccable, everything feels fresh and well looked after. The staff here are absolutely brilliant – friendly, helpful, and always smiling. The restaurant is top notch nosh, with great food and service to match. A special shout out has to go to both Pat and George for their incredible customer service. They were lovely, chatty, friendly, and nothing was ever too much to ask. They’re a true credit to the team and made my stay extra enjoyable. Can’t recommend this Premier Inn highly enough – I’ll definitely be back!”

“I highly recommend this place for families with young children! It’s amazing how much fun you can have inside a historic house. Each room had toys and displays that caught my three-year-old twin boys’ attention, and they spent the whole day there! It was raining, so they could play indoors as much as they wanted, which was perfect. It’s even better that National Trust members can visit for free. There are still places we haven’t seen yet, so I’d love to come back someday.”

“There is a LONG drive to the entrance. Be sure that your GPS takes you to the correct one. Calke Abbey is maintained a bit differently from other National Trust Properties. The Trust chose not to try to bring it back to its original glory, but rather, to leave it in the condition in which it was received, which includes wings of rooms in disrepair. Tour is self guided but volunteers are frequent to offer explanations or answer questions. One of the unique holdings is a state bed made for King George I in 1715. The bed linens were found by the Trust rolled up in the basement. Since they were in perfect condition, the bed is set up as it would have been and preserved behind glass. Another was the caricature room whose walls were covered with humor satirical pictures. I found it to be quite entertaining. The dining room featured some outstanding decor, simply presented. The main entertaining room was filled with glass cabinets loaded with taxidermy. Not my favorite but that is how the family had left it to the Trust. One particular wing has rooms that are in complete disrepair with the ceilings falling, wall paper peeling, and loads of broken furniture haphazardly tossed in the room. Not at all what one would expect while walking through a National Trust Site. Calke Abbey is perfect example of a country estate that was barely held together in the 20th century. Many similar country houses did not survive to tell their story. We are National Trust members (via Royal Oak), so I cannot attest to the cost of entry. Parking lot was within easy walk of the entrance. No reservations were needed.”

“Very interesting museum! It's close to the center, free admission and is simply unique compared to a lot of other museums I've been to. Visually impressive displays to see. Nice small garden to relax afterwards.”

“Great place with great coffee. Really enjoyed a nice breakfast cob and slice of cake.very nice modern setting with plenty of space and little play area outside for the kids. Staff are warm , friendly and polite and really make you feel welcome. If you like a slither of cake be warned these are great cakes but you got to be quick , they are popular. For a place in its infancy they have made an amazing start and living close I am eager to see this great little spot grow from strength to strength. Highly recommend this place for sure.”

“It's a shame it's closing down. Very good value shoes”

“Food is absolutely beautiful and delivery time was on point. We had burgers, kebab wrap, onion rings, mozzarella sticks. Their chippy chips were amazing deffo ordering from here again :)”