Summer of Play: the Garden of Imagination at Calke Abbey
Ready, set go! Summer is here and the Garden of Imagination returns to Calke, packed full of every flavour of play.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
The Garden of Imagination is back and bigger than ever this summer, with 9 exciting zones to explore.
Get active in Adventure Avenue and take on the obstacle course, with giant objects, mazes and tunnels to navigate.
Take part in show jumping and races in the Hobby Horse Championships.
Channel your inner performer in The Musical Magic Theatre and put on a show, dress up or create your own music on the xylophones.
Visit The Beehive and help the bees pollinate flowers or play inside the giant beehive.
Get hands-on in Block Party and construct your own building out of giant building blocks.
Feeling a bit hot? Create your own den in Den Builders Base and cool off inside.
Challenge your friends and family in Fun and Games to life-size games, including hoopla, snakes and ladders and drafts.
Refuel in Snack and Relax and enjoy a well-deserved ice cream and other refreshments.
Take a time out in the Zen Zone and enjoy some quiet time, with cloud watching, yoga and a sensory barefoot walk.
Join us every Tuesday in the Garden of Imagination for led activities, including games, races and crafts.
Summer of Play is sponsored by Starling Bank.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Meeting point
Follow the signs to the Garden of Imagination in the Kitchen Garden.
- What to bring and wear
Dress for the weather but if you happen to forget anything, you can always borrow a hat or umbrella from the borrow box in the Garden of Imagination. Just remember to return it on your way out.
- Accessibility
There are two slopes along a gravel surfaced path up to GOI. A buggy service is available from the Ticket Office to the gardens, which is then a short walk away from GOI. The Zen Zone is a designated quiet space. The maze and race course is 1.5 metres wide to allow for wheelchair users and there are wheelchair-friendly hobby horses. Sensory elements include, a sensory tent and a barefoot walk.
- Other
Dogs are welcome on short leads in the Garden of Imagination.
Upcoming events
Summer of Play: little wheels cycle skills sessions at Calke Abbey
Put your cycling skills to the test this summer on a balance bike course at Calke Explore.
Adventure Cinema at Calke Abbey
Enjoy four nights of outdoor cinema in the Pleasure Grounds, bought to you by Adventure Cinema.