Best natural monuments around Egginton offer diverse landscapes and natural features within the surrounding Derbyshire area. The region provides opportunities for exploring reservoirs, historic parklands, and canal towpaths. These sites are characterized by woodlands, meadows, and water bodies, supporting various plant and bird life. The area's natural monuments provide accessible paths and trails for outdoor activities.
Last updated: October 16, 2026
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At 11:11 am on 27 November 1944 a huge explosion occurred at the RAF Fauld underground munitions facility. The accident caused over 3,500 tonnes of bomb and ammunition to explode, which resulted in this massive crater. The site is still considered dangerous with possible unexploded ordnance, so please obey the signs and stay on the path.
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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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Interesting rock formations but covered in graffiti, unfortunately.
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Very nice for a walk lots of different environments
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For families, the Deer Park at Calke Abbey is an excellent choice, offering extensive parkland to explore and opportunities to see red and fallow deer. Staunton Harold Reservoir also provides accessible paths and a 2.5km wildflower walk suitable for buggies and wheelchairs, along with a cafe on-site.
Yes, the Anchor Church Caves are a notable historical site, originally naturally formed but extended to serve as a dwelling, possibly a hermitage. The Fauld Explosion Crater Memorial marks the site of a significant historical event from 1944, creating a massive crater.
You can find numerous walking opportunities. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey offers extensive woodland walks and trails. The Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath near Swarkestone Lock provides a flat, traffic-free route for walking and cycling. For more specific routes, you can explore options like the 'Dumbles Wood – Stenson Canal Views and Café loop' or the 'River Trent at Ingleby – Heath Wood loop' which are part of the hiking guide around Egginton.
At the Deer Park at Calke Abbey, you can observe herds of red and fallow deer. Staunton Harold Reservoir is a significant habitat for diverse bird and plant life, including wildflower meadows. The Trent & Mersey Canal environment also supports various plant and bird species along its banks.
Both the Deer Park at Calke Abbey and the Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath are popular choices for dog walkers, offering ample space and varied scenery. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially around wildlife.
Spring is particularly beautiful for seeing wildflowers at Staunton Harold Reservoir and Calke Abbey, with daffodils, cowslips, and bluebells. The Deer Park at Calke Abbey is enjoyable year-round for wildlife spotting. Generally, warmer months offer more pleasant conditions for outdoor activities, but some trails are accessible in winter.
The area boasts unique features such as the ancient oak trees in the Deer Park at Calke Abbey, including the 1200-year-old 'Old Man of Calke'. The Anchor Church Caves, carved into a sandstone outcrop, also present a distinctive natural and historical landmark.
Yes, the Trent & Mersey Canal Towpath is part of NCN Route 6 and offers a pleasant, traffic-free route for cycling. For more adventurous cycling, you can check out routes like 'Moira Furnace – Shell Brook Trail loop' or 'Stenson Lock Marina – Swarkestone Lock loop' in the gravel biking guide around Egginton.
Staunton Harold Reservoir offers a cafe on-site, making it convenient for visitors. It also has accessible paths and dedicated nature reserves for exploration.
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the expansive parklands of Calke Abbey to the tranquil waters of Staunton Harold Reservoir. The opportunity to observe wildlife, explore historical sites like the Anchor Church Caves, and enjoy peaceful walks along the canal towpath are often highlighted.
Yes, the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Woodland functions as a nature reserve. Additionally, Staunton Harold Reservoir includes dedicated nature reserves, and there are plans for a new nature reserve by the Hilton Brook in Egginton itself.
The Old Man of Calke Oak is situated in a scenic part of Calke Abbey, offering a natural landmark and a good spot for photos. Staunton Harold Reservoir also provides spectacular views across its open water and surrounding countryside.


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