Calke Explore — Attraction in South Derbyshire

Excellent Service, Affordability and Great Fun: Cycle Hire at Calke Explore is a Star Attraction!

Every time we visit, cycle hire staff have been both great with my children and with the cycles they maintain. The mature, quietly confident staff at Calke take their time to check we have perfectly fitting cycles and know exactly where we're going. Teenage staff at other venues don't inspirethe same level of confidence.

Not only are the staff first rate, but the machines they care for are top-notch too. How the National Trust provide such cycles at such affordable rates is unclear. I paid more than twice as much for bikes at a different provider not so far away. And we only took three out there, not four!

Four cycles were needed this year as my children have benefitted so much from cycling at Calke. Last year, only my eldest two had bikes, but this year my youngest couldn't wait to have a go by himself. If I were to suggest one improvement, the National Trust could construct a more challenging track in Calke's extensive grounds for experienced riders. My 12 year old son is ready for something a little more adventurous.

The cycle hire facility is part of Calke Explore. The kids really enjoy other activities here too, but I wouldn't rate them as highly as I do the cycle hire. The play area is great, but it isn't in itself enough for a full day out. You need to avail yourself of the hall, stables and gardens or the cycle hire as well as the play area to keep them entertained for a full day. Also, why are there so few sticks in the den making area? The kids became a little too competitive. Food is of very good quality, but prices reflect this, so maybe...

Calke Explore is a brilliant spot for a day out, especially if you’ve got kids who love being outdoors. The play area is tucked away in the woods, with lots of natural features that are perfect for climbing, exploring, and just having fun in nature.

The Tramway Trail is a great addition—you can walk or cycle along it, and the tunnels are a real highlight, adding a bit of adventure to the journey. It’s a lovely way to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.

The facilities are really well thought out. The café has some great options, and the toilets are super clean, which is always a bonus! There’s loads of parking, and if you’ve got time, the nearby National Trust house is definitely worth a visit. All in all, it’s a great spot for families and outdoor...

Nice loop trails, long or short. Mostly flat and suitable for walkers, dogs, families and bike riders. Not pleased that you have to pay the National Trust fee for Calke Abbey just to cycle at Calke Explore. I am a member, but had to pay for my partner. We didn't have time to also visit the Abbey, so it was an expensive bike ride. Although we enjoyed it, we wouldn't visit Calke Explore again for this reason. We did see cars parked near the couple of roads that the trail crosses, so had I have known, we would have...