Best natural monuments around Ingleby offer a diverse landscape for exploration. The region features a mix of ancient woodlands, historical sites, and unique geological formations. These natural landmarks provide opportunities for outdoor activities and offer insights into the area's natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can discover a variety of natural attractions, from ancient trees to sandstone caves.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
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Calke Abbey is a must visit site for anyone interested in ancient trees. The 1,000 year old Old Man of Calke may be the oldest, but there’s an 800 year old oak just a few metres away. The parkland is full of countless ancient and veteran trees rich in deadwood habitat, which is anything but dead as it’s brimming with saproxylic life.
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A nice place for a walk in the sunshine
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The Old Poachers Oak, Markeaton Park: This ancient oak tree, behind the Famous Trains building, is hollow in the middle. Its imaginative name comes from its use as a hiding place by illegal poachers when it was part of Markeaton Estate. Although it looks like a small tree, it is probably one of the oldest on the park and could tell some stories – perhaps the next one will be yours.
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Anchor Church caves are found in a Sandstone outcrop, close to Ingleby. The naturally formed caves have been extended by to form a dwelling (likely a hermitage around the 8th/9th century), complete with door and window holes. In more recent history (1840's) the owners of Foremarke Hall undertook some additional enhancements so they could use the caves as a summerhouse and picnic spot.
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A true natural landmark for the area, situated in one of the quieter areas of Calke.
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This ancient Oak is thought to be around 1000-1200 years old! If you want to take a cool photo, go into the field behind the tree - you’ll get a much better picture!
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The Ingleby area offers a diverse range of natural features. You can explore ancient woodlands, such as the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Woodland, and discover unique geological formations like the Anchor Church Caves, which are found in a sandstone outcrop. The region is also home to ancient trees, including the remarkable The Old Man of Calke Oak.
Yes, several natural monuments around Ingleby are suitable for families. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is a great option, offering walking opportunities and a chance to see deer. The Old Man of Calke Oak and Poacher's Oak, Markeaton Park are also family-friendly spots to visit ancient trees.
The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is dog-friendly, making it a good choice for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife.
The Anchor Church Caves are a significant historical natural monument. These naturally formed sandstone caves were extended and used as a dwelling, possibly a hermitage, and later as a summerhouse. The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Woodland also has historical significance as a memorial site.
Absolutely. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is excellent for walking and is part of the National Forest Silver Anniversary Trail. The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Woodland features footpaths that link to the Ashby Heritage Trail and the National Forest Trail. For more extensive options, you can explore various running trails around Ingleby, including easy to moderate routes like the 'Heath Wood loop from South Derbyshire'. Find more details on these routes in the Running Trails around Ingleby guide.
Ingleby is renowned for its ancient trees. You can visit The Old Man of Calke Oak, thought to be around 1000-1200 years old, located in a quieter area of Calke Abbey. Another notable ancient tree is the Poacher's Oak in Markeaton Park, known for its hollow trunk and historical tales.
The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is an excellent place to observe deer in their natural habitat. The parkland, especially around ancient trees like The Old Man of Calke Oak, is rich in deadwood habitat, supporting a variety of saproxylic life.
While many natural monuments offer leisurely walks, if you're looking for more challenging routes, consider the gravel biking options around Ingleby. There are moderate to difficult routes available, such as the 'Tissington Trail – High Peak Trail loop from Peartree'. You can find more details in the Gravel biking around Ingleby guide.
Near the Deer Park at Calke Abbey, there is a cafe within the Calke Abbey grounds, which is convenient for visitors. For other natural monuments, it's advisable to check local listings for nearby cafes or pubs in surrounding villages.
Beyond walking, the area around Ingleby offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, with options ranging from easy to moderate, such as the 'Heath Wood loop'. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Cloud Trail – Garendon Way loop'. For more details, explore the Running Trails around Ingleby, Gravel biking around Ingleby, and Cycling around Ingleby guides.
Yes, both Deer Park at Calke Abbey and The Old Man of Calke Oak are considered viewpoints, offering scenic spots to appreciate the natural landscape.
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse landscape, from ancient woodlands to unique geological formations. The opportunity for leisurely walks, exploring historical sites like the Anchor Church Caves, and discovering ancient trees like The Old Man of Calke Oak are often highlighted. The area's natural and cultural heritage provides a rich experience for all.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Ingleby: