Elvaston Castle Country Park

Description

Located in Derbyshire, near to Derby and Nottingham, Elvaston Castle Country Park encompasses approximately 321 acres of open parkland, woodland and more formal historical gardens.

At the heart of the estate lies Elvaston Castle, a gothic revival masterpiece (not open to the public) designed by James Wyatt in the early 1800s based on the original house dating back to 1633.

Wyatt's design, built for the third Earl of Harrington, became home to the Stanhope family until the estate was sold by the then Earl of Harrington to a quarrying company in 1968. In 1969 the then Derby Corporation purchased the estate from the company and in 1970 the estate was opened as one of the first country parks in England.

Today both the buildings and gardens are registered (Grade 2 and Grade 2*) as being of special architectural and historical interest.

Within the estate, structures such as the recently renovated golden gates, Moorish temple and ha-ha wall provide a fascinating glimpse of the past.

The gardens are locally renowned for their rockwork structures and fine examples of topiary, originally introduced and designed by William Barron in the 19th century.

Whatever the season there's always lots to see and do in and around the park - walking, cycling, horse riding, bird watching, picnicking, kite flying, photography, exploring the park and nature reserve and much more.

We do not allow barbecues, gazebos or drones within the park.

Entry and car parking

Entry to the park is free at all points of entry on foot.

Car parking charges apply unless you hold a Blue Badge.

Paying for car parking

You can pay with cash, card or online at the 'Pay by Phone' website.

Season tickets

A single season ticket can be registered to 2 vehicles, and costs £120 for the year. This allows you to visit any of our listed countryside sites using either car (but not both at the same time) providing it's clearly displayed on your dashboard.

If you'd like to purchase a pass or change or add a vehicle to your existing pass, please visit us at our shop. You can pay by cash, card, or cheque between Friday to Monday from 10.30am to 4pm.

Season tickets can also be purchased at the other Derbyshire countryside sites.

We'd strongly advise against parking in the main public car park without your pass on display. We can arrange for alternative parking while your pass is being amended or reissued.

Ground conditions

Elvaston Castle Country Park is low lying and after periods of rain can be muddy underfoot. Please take extra care at such times and keep to footpaths where possible.

Opening times

The park is open all year round. Opening times are:

• 9am to 5pm from 1 November to 31 March
• 9am to 8pm from 1 April to 31 October