Tourist attraction in Derby

“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.”

“Absolutely had a blast with the Sam’s Saloon. It was challenging but also fun! Rachel was such a great game master and a lot of fun to talk to I can’t wait to come back and try new ones!”

“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.”

“Had a wonderful experience celebrating Bon fire night with the children would definitely be returning next year lots of food variety very accessible and plenty of activities for all ages to join”

“Great experience to be guided through these caves. Our guide was very knowledgeable and comical throughout making the whole experience very enjoyable. Lots of steps though so not ideal for anyone with mobility problems, but there's plenty of notices around to warn you of this. There's time to take photos too. Highly recommend this tour.”

“Lovely park with a well-maintained kids’ play area and a nice walking path. Clean, peaceful, and great for families.”

“Carsington Water truly exceeded our expectations during our recent bike ride around the reservoir. It's an absolutely superb destination for cyclists and nature lovers alike. The cycle pathways are exceptionally well maintained, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride throughout the entire loop. It's clear a lot of care goes into keeping them in top condition, making it accessible and pleasant for all skill levels. What truly sets Carsington Water apart are the stunning views that unfold as you pedal along. Every turn offers a new picturesque vista of the water and the surrounding Derbyshire countryside. We found ourselves frequently pausing just to take it all in. Conveniently, there are plenty of benches strategically placed along the route, which allowed us to stop, rest, and really soak up the beautiful surroundings without feeling rushed. If you're looking for a refreshing outdoor activity with breathtaking scenery and excellent facilities, a bike ride around Carsington Water is an absolute must. We had a brilliant time and can't wait to go back!”

“A had a great time at Elvaton Castle Country Park. It has a information centre, gift shop and a cafe. There are lots of play area one with a fence and teaditional play equipment. The other is a massive area of logs to climb on. The castle is not open to public but it is where the cafe is and the loos. There is a lake, lots of rocks, a moorish temple, a pump house and water wheel, lots of types of huge trees, long walks, an old English garden, a nature reserve and lovely garden to explore. You can get there by using the skylink bus. There is also the parish church on the grounds as well. There are picnic benches and benches around the castle.”

“Went for a walk through the wooded areas and also around the lake, free car parking and toilets”

“Beautifully maintained sports ground and nature reserve with a walk along the Derwent River.”

“My daughter and I had afternoon tea on Tuesday at the Bottle Kiln (to celebrate my birthday), it was absolutely delicious, and there was so much food!! The service was amazing, particular shout out to lovely Zara and Alice who served our table and made our experience extra special.”

“Food is alway on point. My order last night came 20 mons after I placed it. An entire hour earlier than expected. Consistently great service!”

“We haven't eaten from here for a long time, but will definitely be using Koriander again. Ready on time and toally delicious. Great meal !!”

“Took takeaway couple times from here now and food from here tasted the best compared with all the other Chinese takeaways in Burton-on-Trent. Tried all top rated ones from just eat. Definitely 5 stars for that.”

“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.”

“Beautiful place! So, so beautiful! The wildlife is breathtaking! I don’t know who takes care of the gardens, but they are very beautiful! I was surprised to read that it’s part of the UNESCO’s heritage list. The mill building is so impressive too! It still looks well, but it might be better looked after. I would love visiting it inside. I loved the children’s enclosure too. There are toilets, parking and a cosy coffee shop. Everything you could need for a great family day!”

“Nice parkrun Good play areas Lovely lake Connects to riverside footpaths well nice parkrun Has a cafe”

“Beautiful reservoir absolutely brilliant walk round kids always enjoy it”

“Great walk in Sinai Park with nature of beauty”

“Great place to moor, good local facilities within walking distance, coop, Indian restaurant, pub! Nice walks around the lake and plenty of wildlife to spot.”

“An absolutely faultless, Christmas's Day meal / experience! Often, I've been for Christmas Day meals, only to be left disappointed by the food, service, or friendliness of the staff. This far surpasses anything I've previously experienced! I know it's hard for staff to work on Christmas Day, but these couldn't have done more for us. The team were all extremely friendly, and welcoming. Our server (Ollie) couldn't have done more for us. He was always there for drinks orders, and even made time to chat, despite being very busy. The food was exceptional and very presented. The price, considering it was Christmas Day, was extremely reasonable too. Even the little touches, such as a Christmas card, added to a very pleasant meal. Thank you so much to The Otter, and their excellent team and service.”

“A beautiful and tranquil park. The playground is in decent condition with a good zip wire. There are plenty of benches and picnic areas. Some lovely trees and wildlife to be seen too, including the Henmore brook running through the park.”

“Absolutely brilliant food and service. I’ve literally ordered 3 times this week and its definitely the best around. Ordered from a lot of other places before which has never really gave me the wow factor but this place is best of the best. Black pudding is to die for, I could eat a plate full of it. The delivery drivers are extremely polite and not just the type just to dump the food on the doorstep. Not the cheapest however its all high class food. Customer for life. Gav”

“Great place for a laugh, game of darts, pool and the quiz night on a Tuesday is a good time. Also great to go back the next day when you need to be fed and they will look after you and your sore head. Kids are welcome and the atmosphere is child friendly and the outside seating is denominator on a hot day it’s great vibes.”

“My grandson loves Conkers, both inside & outside activities! The staff are lovely, the Halloween decorations were fab and, even on a cold October day, we spent 3 hours in the playgrounds, on the train & in the Enchanted Forest inside. Our annual ticket costs £63, as my grandson lives in the National Forest & that gave us a £7 discount - he lives 20 mins away, so we can dip in & out all year. Well worth it!”

“A brilliant family day out. Free parking is available and just a short wait for the gates to open. There is something to do for all ages here, visited with two children ages 12 and 15 and enjoyed by both. This park is great for those who don't like massive rollacoasters or queuing for hours to get on a ride. The queues were all short, or we were straight on. The climbing wall and the rope swing were the only two attractions that had a bigger queue or wait time. Various food and drink outlets dotted around. We chose to have a pizza, which was nicely done. Old classics like the log flume, river rapids, pirate ship and high wire seats were enjoyed by all. Photos for the log flume are reasonable prices, the pottery craft painting was only £5, and there is a gift shop at the exit to buy a keepsake or gift. Whether you've got a little one or older one there's definitely something for everyone. £65 family ticket offer for a family of 5 was great value for the amount of things to do. We would visit again.”

“Was taken here tonight by friends and although I'd not had Japanese food before I absolutely loved it. We tried lots of different starters and they were all Fantastic the mains were great too. The robot servers and watching the chefs cook and prepare sushi was really entertaining. Will definitely be returning and recommending to others”

“Lovely park with ample parking (including disabled) lots of things to do for free..kids play area tennis courts bowling green library water splash area outdoor gym bmx track as well as cafe woodland walks and plenty of wildlife all in the centre of chaddesden”

“Lovely place to enjoying watching the wildlife and enjoy a walk round the site. There are plenty of birds to see and hear along the paths with viewing platforms and a hide that provide excellent great views. A circular walk option allows you to walk back along the Trent and Mersey Canal.”

“Absolutely loved the food and service. Very fast and the food tasted so good and fresh as well. Highly recommend”