Staunton Harold

Type:Parks & Gardens

Calke Road, Melbourne, Derby, Derbyshire, DE73 8DL

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The Tower Windmill at Staunton Harold

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About

Find a slice of idyllic countryside at Staunton Harold, with peaceful walks and fantastic views. Owned by Severn Trent and cared for in partnership with the National Trust, the reservoir at Staunton Harold has played an important part in the water supply network since its creation in 1964. 

Today, Staunton Harold is home to a rich diversity of wildlife and the Tower Windmill, which dominates the skyline. The bird hide is a great place to spot great crested grebes, cormorants, goosanders, grey herons and many more on the water.

Explore this charming landscape on a scenic walk through countryside, woodland habitat, wildflower meadows, industrial archaeology and nature reserves. The wildflower meadows are a particular highlight between spring and summer, as they come alive with a symphony of flowers. As you take in the glorious sight, look out for butterflies, bees and hunting swallows. If you’re looking to explore further afield, follow the waymarked walk to nearby Calke Abbey, where you can discover more highlights.

At nearby Dimminsdale Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, you’ll find open water ponds where quarrying excavations once mined for lead and limestone. Look out for derelict lime burning kilns and other industrial features hidden among the vegetation.

A family trip isn't complete without an essential stop-off in the playground for adventurous children who love to climb, swing and spin. Or load the car with your favourite games and enjoy an afternoon of family fun in nature. For little legs looking to gain confidence on two wheels, the tarmac path that runs parallel to the wildflower meadows is a great place to gain your footing or enjoy a family ride. 

Refuel after your adventure with refreshments from the dog-friendly café or set up on a picnic bench and enjoy lunch with views of open water across the reservoir.

For opening times, please visit the Staunton Harold website.

Guide Prices

Ticket TypeTicket Tariff
All day parking£6.00 per vehicle
Max. 4 hours parking£3.50 per vehicle

Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.

Facilities

Accessibility - Food and Drink

  • Dietary requirements catered for - A selection of food is offered for a range of dietary requirements. 
  • Table service as standard or on request   - Table service is available as standard or on request. 
  • Wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet - There is at least one wheelchair-accessible food and beverage outlet on site.  

Accessibility - General

  • Additional detailed accessibility information:
  • Assistive listening system - There is an assistive listening system available e.g. a hearing loop.   
  • Changing Places toilet - There is a Changing Places toilet, which includes an adult size changing bench, toilet, sink and hoist.  
  • Disability awareness / equality training - Disability awareness / equality training is provided for staff. 
  • Emergency alarm with flashing lights - There is an emergency alarm with flashing lights, to alert deaf guests to a fire or other emergency scenario. 
  • Map / floorplan showing accessibility facilities - A map or floorplan showing accessibility facilities is available.  
  • Seating at regular intervals - Seating is available at regular intervals.  
  • Step-free access to all or most areas - There is step-free access to all or most areas. This may include access by ramp or lift. As a minimum, there is step-free access to an accessible toilet and at least one food and beverage outlet, where available. 
  • Step-free entrance - There is step-free access at the main entrance or an alternative entrance. This may be via a ramp or lift. 
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet in public areas - A designated accessible toilet designed for wheelchair users, and others with visible and non-visible accessibility requirements, is available within the main public areas. 

Accessibility - Parking

  • Designated accessible parking is available within 50 metres of the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance if applicable.
  • Step-free route with firm surface from car park to entrance - There is a step-free route with a firm surface from the parking to the main entrance or an alternative step-free entrance. 

Catering

  • Café
  • Picnic area

Children & Infants

  • Baby changing facilities

Establishment Features

  • Dogs Accepted
  • Toilets
  • Wireless internet (WiFi) connection available

Key Features

  • No Smoking Attraction

Parking & Transport

  • Car parking
  • On site parking

Payment Methods

  • Cash Accepted
  • Groups Accepted

Map & Directions

Opening Times

Season (1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026)