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Mention the word Kedleston and many immediately think of the Adam-built hall, home of the Curzon family since the 13th Century.

But the surrounding open parkland is also home to rare crayfish, ancient trees and one of the county's 'fattest' oaks!

It is the series of lakes at Kedleston Hall which provides a slender lifeline for the fast-declining white-clawed crayfish.

Park warden Nicola Metcalfe told us: "The white-clawed crayfish has been in Derbyshire for a long time - the fast-flowing, clear waters from the Peak District and South Derbyshire are a perfect habitat for them. But there are two main threats - one is the plague carried by the American crayfish which also live nearby. The disease isn't a problem for the American crayfish, but it does affect our white-clawed species.

These crayfish are in decline

"The other threat is the silt that comes from the brook at the top of the park. While the water is fast flowing it isn't a problem - but when it hits our lakes the water slows down and the silt is deposited. The crayfish don't like the silt."

Even so, the white-clawed crayfish can still be found in the rocks below the cascade.

Kingfishers and oyster catchers frequent the wetlands, too - and this year has also seen a visit by a little egret.

Kedleston is also known for its veteran trees. These are specimens which are very much advanced in years for their species - eg 600 years for an oak or 100 years for aÌý silver birch - and which also display other characteristics, such as rotting wood and hollows.

Nicola is one of Kedleston's two wardens

The park also houses the county's third largest circumference oak, now named "Major Staggie."

The parkland is open to visitors - and many of the veteran trees and other wildlife can be seen by following some of the set routes. Guided walks are organised on certain dates - including "Kedleston at War" in June, a tree walk in July and a series bat walks in August. Full details of the walks will be posted on the National Trust website (link on the right).

Bookings will be taken on 01332 842191.