Dorothy Clive Garden

Sunday Lecture - ‘Alpines in The Wild and in Cultivation’
2026-05-10 11:00 - 13:00 (Europe/London)
“Alpines in the Wild and Cultivation”
Most people have a misunderstanding of the concept of alpine plants. In this talk, Diane will dispel a lot of myths and mysteries surrounding these wonderful plants, and she will share her fascination and enjoyment of these magical plants. In this talk, we will take three alpine walks at different altitudes to look at alpines in the wild and following each walk we will see how we can adapt our gardens in order to grow the different types of alpines. Be prepared to be dazzled and enthralled by these wonderful flowers in their mountain habitat.

Diane Clement –Diane is an active member of the Alpine Garden Society as an exhibitor and judge and has also been Manager of their Seed Exchange for over 25 years. She is a member of the RHS Alpine Expert Group and has taken part in several RHS plant trials. She has a wide range of plant interests, specialising in hepatica, cyclamen and woodland plants, and also grows a wide range of other hardy plants. Diane has given around 500 lectures all over Britain and enjoys sharing her passion for plants. She enjoys seeing plants growing in their natural environment and has been travelling to the Alps for over 40 years. Since retirement, she has had time to travel further afield to see plants in the wild and has visited China, Japan, Colorado, Turkey, Kyrgystan, Patagonia, Armenia and many parts of Europe.Diane has recently been awarded the Lyttel Trophy, the premier award from the Alpine Garden Society, “for making an outstanding contribution to the world of alpine plants, and meritorious work in advancing the knowledge of alpines to a wide audience”.

Pen and Watercolour Workshop With Kate Dawes
2026-05-19 10:00 - 13:00
Spend three hours creating beautiful botanicals in pen and watercolour with Kate Dawes. A relaxed pen & watercolour workshop. Suitable for all abilities.
Kate will show you different techniques of pen drawing, along with how to overlay with ‘dry’ watercolour to create beautiful botanical art. All materials are provided.
She will offer support and guidance to help everyone develop their personal style, understand composition, colour mixing, and achieve a more confident approach to art.
Kate will bring flowers and foliage to work from, and we plan to go into the garden to try out pen drawing techniques and to inspire you to create A4 botanical artworks to take home with you.
Suitable for all abilities from absolute beginners to the more experienced artist, who would like to try a new technique and approach to art. All materials supplied.
Small workshop – max 12 people
To book go to the below link –
https://katedawesstudio.com/products/pen-and-watercolour-workshop-dorothy-clive-garden-tuesday-19may-2026-3-hours
** please note – for non-members there is a £14 garden entrance fee or £26 annual membership, payable on the gate.
When & Where

Tuesday 19th May 2026
10am – 1pm
The Dorothy Clive Garden
Willoughbridge
Market Drayton
Shropshire
TF9 4EU

Sunday Lecture- ‘Amphibians and Reptiles in your garden’
2026-06-14 11:00 - 12:00
Discover Staffordshire’s Wildlife – Make Your Garden a Haven!
Join us for an engaging session with Chris Monk, Secretary of the Derbyshire Amphibian and Reptile Group, as we explore the fascinating species found in Staffordshire and surrounding counties. Learn which creatures are most likely to visit your garden and discover practical tips to create a thriving wildlife-friendly space right at home.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with nature and make a difference for local wildlife!

Music Day
2026-06-28 08:00 - 17:00
Join us and enjoy the musical entertainment on offer, take a stroll around the Garden, then enjoy a drink, a bite to eat or try one of our freshly baked scones with jam and cream whilst relaxing on the Tearoom lawn.
More details to follow soon!

Craft Fair- Special Fundraising Event
2026-07-05 08:00 - 17:00
Browse the many Artisan Stalls on offer then take a stroll around the Garden. Our Tearoom will be open from 10am to 4.30pm.
Entry is £8 per person for non-members payable on entry (entry includes access to the Garden).
Child aged 5-17 – £2
0-4’s free of charge
Members are free of charge.
If you would like to have a stall at our event please contact us at info@dorothyclivegarden.co.uk

Wedding Showcase Evening
2026-07-11 18:00 - 20:00
Discover Your Dream Wedding Venue at the Dorothy Clive Garden
Are you recently engaged and searching for a truly unique, outdoor venue to celebrate your special day? Join us on Saturday, the 11th of July from 6pm-8pm for our Wedding Showcase Day, where you’ll have the perfect opportunity to: Explore our beautiful ceremony points, each offering a picturesque backdrop for your vows. Sample our delicious, handcrafted canapés. Meet our dedicated wedding team, who will be on hand to guide you through every detail of planning your big day. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the Dorothy Clive Garden provides the perfect blend of natural beauty and personal charm to make your wedding day unforgettable. Save the Date and let us help you bring your wedding dreams to life.*Please note that this is a venue showcase only and there will not be any additional suppliers*
Bookings available soon!

Sunday Lecture- 'The Folly of an idea: A brief look at the history of Follies’
2026-07-12 11:00 - 12:00
Join Janet Hallett for an engaging talk exploring the question, “What is a folly?”
Janet will showcase examples from the many different categories of follies found across Great Britain, providing fascinating insights into why they were built. From the loved to the lesser-known, follies are often unusual, exciting, and full of character.
Some are easy to visit, while others may require a walk through woods or up hills—and maybe a little map reading! Janet will also bring a selection of her own books for browsing, perfect for anyone inspired to explore further.

Dog Fest and Vintage and Classic Car Display
2026-08-02 10:00 - 17:00
This year we are combining our Dog Fest with a display of Vintage and Classic Cars. Music will be playing throughout the day with DJ Dave Ball.
Join us for a tail-wagging good time at the Dorothy Clive Garden Dog Fest 2026!
This is a fun-filled day dedicated to our furry friends and their families. Whether you have a dog or just love them, this event promises to be a delight for all.
Event Highlights:

Doggie Ice Cream: Keep your pups cool with refreshing doggie ice cream, also available in the tearoom. Perfect for a hot summer day!
Series of Stalls: Explore a variety of stalls featuring dog-related products, services, and more. From unique pet accessories to gourmet dog treats, there’s something for every pooch.
Dog Competition- 2PM START: Enter your dog into our exciting competition! Categories will include.

-Best trick
-Prettiest bitch
-Prettiest bitch – puppy
-Handsome hound
-Handsome hound- puppy
-Best junior handler
-Best heelwork
-Happiest pair
-Waggiest Tail
-Final

Bring your family, friends and of course your dogs for a fantastic day out in the beautiful surroundings of the Dorothy Clive Garden. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating our beloved canine companions together!
The dog event will start at 2 pm, please ensure all entries have been registered beforehand.
Also, enjoy the display of Vintage and Classic Cars on the paddock.
Take a stroll around the Garden, then enjoy a drink, a bite to eat or try one of our freshly baked scones with jam and cream whilst relaxing on the Tearoom lawn.
Our Tearoom will be open serving a lunch menu available between 12pm and 2.30pm. Cakes and snacks will also be available throughout the day.
Admission:

Members: Free
Adults: £14.00
Children aged 5-17: £2.00
Children (Under 4): Free
Dogs: Free

Sunday Lecture - ‘Woodland Plants for the Connoisseur’
2026-08-09 11:00 - 13:00

Plant Hunters Fair – Special Fundraising Event
2026-08-30 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-31 10:00 - 17:00
Location: Dorothy Clive Garden
Join us for our popular Plant Hunters’ Fair, featuring a wonderful selection of stalls from top specialist and award-winning nurseries. Choose from thousands of plants and be inspired by RHS medal winners and National Collection holders, alongside knowledgeable plants-people, designers, and artisans.

Admission (Special Event Discounted)
Adults: £5.00
Children (5–17): £2.00
Members: FREE
Children under 5: FREE

Tearoom
Our garden Tearoom will be open throughout the event, serving delicious homemade food and refreshments.
Please note we will be on a restricted menu.

About Dorothy Clive Garden
The Dorothy Clive Garden is a charitable garden trust, established in 1958 by Colonel Harry Clive in memory of his wife, Dorothy.The garden exists for the benefit and enjoyment of the general public and is continually maintained and developed in her memory.

Garden Opening Times (General)
Main Season (1 March – 31 October):Open daily, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Winter Season (November – February):Open Thursday to Sunday, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Standard Admission (outside special events):
Adults: £14.00
Children (5–17): £2.00
Children under 4 & Members: FREE

Sunday Lecture- 'Greenhouse and Conservatory Plants'
2026-09-13 11:00 - 13:00

Sunday Lecture- 'Chemistry in The Garden'
2026-10-11 11:00 - 13:00

Pumpkin Trail
2026-10-24 10:00 - 2026-10-25 15:30
🎃🍂 Pumpkin Trail 🍂🎃
This autumn, join us for a Spooktacular Pumpkin Trail!
Explore a trail filled with pumpkins and enjoy the magic of the season with family and friends.
Perfect for all ages – spot the pumpkins, solve fun clues along the way, and soak up the Halloween atmosphere
A fun-filled half-term activity that’s sure to get everyone in the autumn spirit!

Christmas Craft Fair - Special Fundraising Event
2026-11-29 10:00 - 16:30
🎄 Christmas Craft Fair at the Dorothy Clive Garden 🎄
Join us on Saturday 29th November for a festive Christmas Craft Fair set in the beautiful surroundings of the garden. Browse a wonderful selection of handmade gifts, crafts, and seasonal treats—perfect for Christmas shopping.
Entry prices:• Adults: £8.00• Children: £2.00
🎟️ Tickets to follow soon
If you are a maker or artisan and would like to book a stall, please email:📧 info@dorothyclivegarden.co.uk
We look forward to welcoming you for a festive day out! ✨

Festive Afternoon Tea
2026-12-06 13:00 - 16:00
Enjoy a festive Afternoon Tea in a cosy festive atmosphere. Arrival from 12.45 to be seated for 1.00pm when Festive Afternoon Tea is served – ONLY 1 SERVING AT 1.00PM. Booking is essential. (menu to follow)
To book – email info@dorothyclivegarden.co.uk or call 01630 647237

Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Celiac, Vegetarian and Vegan catered for please advise of any dietary requirements upon making a booking.

Nuts are used in our Kitchen
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation up to 1 week before the event a full refund will be given.

Cancellation less than 1 week before the event – we will endeavour to re-sell but if we are unable to no refund will be given.

Christmas Lunch – Special Fundraising Event
2026-12-13 13:00 - 16:00
Enjoy a traditional 3 course Christmas lunch in a cosy festive atmosphere ( menu to follow )
Arrival 12.45pm for a 1.00pm serving
Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Celiac, Vegetarian and Vegan catered for please advise of any dietary requirements upon making a booking.
Nuts are used in our Kitchen
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation up to 1 week before the event a full refund will be given.
Cancellation less than 1 week before the event – we will endeavour to re-sell but if we are unable to no refund will be given.

Christmas Carol Service
2026-12-20 12:00 - 15:00
Join us for a Festive Carol Service with Hannah Grace Music and the Dorothy Clive Garden Choir in the cosy Bryan Mayer Pavilion!

Cost: £5 per person
Max 50 places
Our Tearoom will be open for lunch served 12.00pm to 2.00pm and refreshments before the performance. Get a FREE Mince Pie with every hot beverage purchased upon production of a ticket for the Carol Service.
Tickets available soon!
