Walk stats
- Distance2.8 km · 1.7 mi
- Elevation+80 m
- Duration45 min
- DifficultyEasy
- Route typeCircular
- TerrainGentle parkland paths and tracks
- Best seasonSpring and autumn
- DogsDogs welcome on leads
About this walk
The Blue Walk is a gentle circular route through the parkland of Calke, in south Derbyshire, linking a chain of quiet ponds in just under three kilometres. Starting from the Calke Explore visitor area, the path meanders past Mere Pond and China House Pond, where the water reflects the surrounding trees and offers good chances of spotting waterbirds.
The route continues on to Betty's Pond and Thatch House Pond, threading between mature woodland and open grazing. With only 80 metres of ascent spread across the loop, the going is easy underfoot and well suited to a relaxed morning or afternoon amble. Little Dogkennel Pond lies close by, and short detours reveal the Grotto tucked into the landscape.
The wider Calke Park estate, including Calke Abbey itself, sits within easy reach, so the walk pairs neatly with a longer visit. At around 45 minutes at a steady pace, it makes an ideal introduction to the parkland's quiet corners before returning to the Calke Explore hub.
Route map
Route line drawn from OpenStreetMap footpath data. Numbered markers are waypoints on the route; amber star markers are points of interest a short detour away.
Waypoints along the route
4 waypoints along the way
- 1
Mere Pond
- 2
China House Pond
- 3
Betty's Pond
- 4
Thatch House Pond
Worth a short detour
Points of interest just off the route, look for the amber markers on the map.
Little Dogkennel Pond
~347 m off the route
Calke Park
~184 m off the route
Grotto
~308 m off the route
Calke Abbey
~268 m off the route
Calke Explore
~428 m off the route
Route & waypoint data © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).