Nature's Home: Meet the Taxidermist
Intrigued by Calke's taxidermy collection? Join Sarah Burhouse from Birdhouse Taxidermy in the Saloon to learn more about this important subject.
- Booking not needed
- Free event (admission applies)
Calke is marking 100 years since the death of Sir Vauncey Harpur Crewe, 10th Baronet, with the launch of Nature’s Home.
Known for his keen interest in wildlife, Nature's Home will celebrate and explore nature, indoors and out, starting with Calke's natural history collection – the largest of its kind owned by the National Trust, which includes many taxidermy cases full of birds, mammals and other creatures.
Taxidermy restorer, Sarah Burhouse, will be demonstrating the process of wiring a specimen into position, adding false eyes, sewing up, posing and feathering in Calke's striking Saloon.
Please note that Sarah will be working on a naturally deceased, real bird for her demonstrations. The bird skin will have already been processed and Sarah will be fitting it to a form she has pre-carved in her workshop. These demonstrations are optional, taking place in a room on the visitor route in the house.
Times
Prices
Event ticket prices
This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.
Check admission pricesThe basics
- Meeting point
The Taxidermist will be based within the house along the normal visitor route in the Saloon.
- Accessibility
The event will be on the first floor of the house until November. Access to the first floor is via the main staircase, which has 26 steps and a handrail on the left. The November session will be on the ground floor, which is accessible to wheelchair users. A buggy service is available from the ticket office to the house.
- Other
Please note that backpacks must be left behind or in the free storage area by the west door of the house. Lockers are available here free of charge and small shoulder bags are available to borrow if you need to carry any essential belongings with you.
Upcoming events
Festival of Blossom at Calke Abbey
Celebrate the joy of blossom at Calke Abbey between March and May.
Nature's Home: Bird of the Month display at Calke Abbey
Discover the fascinating world of birds through our Bird of the Month display inside the house.
Blossom tunnels at Calke Abbey
Travel underground to the tunnels and take in a special display of blossom.
Spring market at Calke Abbey
Join us for a spring market in the Riding School with our friends, Curly Magpie.