Calke Abbey to Staunton Harold trail
Enjoy a leisurely walk from Calke Abbey to Staunton Harold, with views over the reservoir, arable fields and woodland. Refresh and refuel at the dog-friendly National Trust café, then reverse the route to come back to Calke. It's also possible to do the walk in the opposite direction by starting at Staunton Harold and following the directions in reverse.
Please stay out of the water
Swimming is strictly prohibited at Staunton Harold for your own safety. Please keep dogs out of the water as blue green algae is present, which can be fatal to dogs.
Total steps: 10
Total steps: 10
Start point
Calke Abbey car park, grid ref: SK366226
Step 1
From the main car park, take the stepped footpath down towards Mere Pond. Turn right at the bottom of the steps and follow the path alongside the Deer Park.
Step 2
Continue to follow the path up the hill until you reach an information board at the top of the incline. Turn left, then walk for 15 metres until you reach a gate on your right.
Step 3
Pass through the gate, then turn left and walk a short distance to cross a stile. Bear right and follow the well-trodden path across a planted field. This can be muddy in wet weather.
Step 4
Continue across the field with views over Staunton Harold Reservoir to your right. When you reach the edge of the field, cross the two stiles either side of a private drive. Continue along the perimeter of the field with clearer views of the reservoir to your right, and a private house to the left.
Step 5
When you reach an ash tree, the path divides. Follow the right fork across an arable field towards a row of trees, until you reach a bridge crossing a stream. Cross the bridge and bear right to follow the narrow track across the field up a fairly steep incline. There may be livestock in this field so please keep dogs on a lead.
Step 6
At the top of the incline, cross a stile and turn right. Follow the surfaced single track road down to a small car park area.
Step 7
At the car park, turn left and walk around a metal barrier onto the tarmacked footpath that follows the edge of the reservoir. This is a fairly flat surfaced path with a wildflower meadow to the left and the reservoir to the right.
Step 8
Continue along this path until you reach the Staunton Harold Sailing Club. Follow the pedestrian route to the right through a small wooded area.
Step 9
Continue through the woodland until you reach an open area with views across the reservoir, playground and café.
Step 10
Follow the path around to the car park. Cross the car park to reach the café.
End point
Staunton Harold Reservoir Café
Trail map
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