Calke Abbey, Ticknall

August 1st, 2019

A few hours spent wandering around Calke Abbey in search of inspiration for the upcoming Dame Catherine Arts Festival in Ticknall. I already have a line drawn artwork of Calke Abbey and need something to go with it.

Started off avoiding the sheep on the road getting shade from the lime trees.

Went up to see the old man of Calke, it's over 1000 years old which is pretty impressive but time has ravaged it a bit so it's not the prettiest of trees for an artwork.

Then off to the gardens past the Stable block, unfortunately this was the best camera angle I could get of the building front without climbing walls and trees.

Wandered up to St Giles Church, a pretty little church with artistic potential.

Then off to the gardens desperately thinking nice thoughts after viewing some quaint little signs on the way.

Was very impressed with the improvements in the gardens at Calke. It was lacking attention the first time I went many many years ago but they have obviously spent a lot of time and effort tidying and planting and creating fun things to do for the kids.

Loved the wildflower border, hopefully this will become the way of the future as I noticed some councils are doing this instead of grassing roadsides.

Overall a nice day out, a little bit of rain kept down the heat nicely.