Stories of the Season- Weekly Walk & Talk
2026-03-20 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-03-27 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-04-03 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-04-10 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-04-17 11:00 - 11:45, 2026-04-24 11:00 - 2026-05-01 11:45 (Europe/London) | Dorothy Clive Garden, Willoughbridge, Market Drayton, Shropshire, TF9 4EU, United Kingdom
Stories of the Season
Weekly Walk & Talk at Dorothy Clive Gardens
Step into the garden and discover how it changes through the year.
Join us for Stories of the Season, a relaxed 45-minute guided walk exploring seasonal highlights, plants, and the stories nature tells as the garden evolves.
🕚 Every Friday at 11am⏱️ Duration: 45 minutes📍 Location: Dorothy Clive Gardens📍 Meet-up point: The Bryan Mayer Pavilion
🌿 Free for members🌿 Non-members: garden admission applies
🌸 No rush. No pressure. Just seasonal stories, shared weekly.
Click Here To Book
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=stories%20of%20the%20season

Seed Sowing & Propagating Workshop
2026-03-21 10:30 - 13:00 | Shropshire
Seed Sowing & Propagation Workshop
Location – Woodland Pavilion – Please meet Ross in the Tearoom to start.
Join us at The Dorothy Clive Garden on Saturday 21st March for a hands-on gardening workshop led by our Head Gardener, Ross. Coffee & Lunch also included!
Perfect for beginners and budding green-fingers alike, this practical session will guide you through the essentials of seed sowing and plant propagation. Ross will share expert tips, seasonal advice, and tried-and-tested techniques used right here in the garden, giving you the confidence to grow your own plants at home.
What to expect:

Practical, step-by-step guidance
Expert horticultural advice
Time for questions and discussion
A friendly, relaxed learning environment

The Days Schedule:
10:30-Coffee and biscuits in the Tearoom
11:00- Practical (Seed Sowing)
1:00- Lunch served in the Tearoom
🕥 Time: 10:30am–1:00pm
🍽 Lunch: Included after the workshop
💷 Cost:
Members – £60.00
Non Members – £68.00
Come along, get your hands dirty, and grow your gardening skills from the ground up .
Click the below link to book!
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=Seed+Sowing+%26+Propagating+Workshop+dorothy+clive+

Easter Egg Hunt
2026-03-30 08:00 - 2026-04-14 15:30 | Shropshire
Join us for a delightful Easter Egg Hunt at the Dorothy Clive Gardens!
Cost: This trail is free but our entry fee applies
Join us for a delightful Easter Egg Hunt at the Dorothy Clive Gardens, running from 30th March – 12th April , every day from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. This family-friendly event invites guests of all ages to explore the stunning gardens in search of hidden Easter eggs. The hunt will begin and end in the Gift Room, where participants will receive all the necessary details to embark on their egg-finding adventure.
Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy the scenic surroundings, and challenge yourself to find as many eggs as you can! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, there’s always something new to discover. With eggs hidden among flowers, trees, and charming garden features, you’re sure to have a fantastic time.
Don’t forget to visit the Gift Room at the end for a special treat. We look forward to seeing you there for an EGG-cellent Easter experience!

Plant Hunters Fair – Special Fundraising Event
2026-04-05 10:00 - 17:00 | Shropshire
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
Book your tickets here !
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=dorothy%20clive%20plant%20hunters

Plant Hunters Fair – Special Fundraising Event
2026-04-06 10:00 - 17:00 | Shropshire
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
Book your tickets here!
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=dorothy%20clive%20plant%20hunters

Animal Encounters - Special Fundraising Event
2026-04-10 10:00 - 16:30 | Shropshire
Animal Encounters at The Dorothy Clive Garden 🐐🐑🐓
We’re excited to welcome a wonderful selection of friendly farm animals to The Dorothy Clive Garden for a special animal event the whole family will love.
Meet and enjoy goats, sheep, chickens, rabbits and ponies, with plenty of opportunities to get up close, learn about the animals, and enjoy a relaxed, countryside atmosphere in the beautiful garden setting.
This fun and gentle experience is perfect for families, animal lovers, and anyone looking to add a little extra joy to their visit. A lovely way to spend time outdoors, make memories, and enjoy everything the garden has to offer.
Whether you’re meeting the animals or enjoying the garden in spring this Easter animal experience promises a joyful and unforgettable visit before the Easter holiday ends!
Please book using the below link! Tickets will be required for this event –
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=Animal+Encounters+at+The+Dorothy+Clive+Garden+A+Special+Fundraising+Event

Plant Support Workshop
2026-04-11 10:30 - 13:00 | Shropshire
Enjoy a hands-on practical session designed to help you understand how to stake a variety of plants so they are supported and displayed to their very best advantage. Adrian will demonstrate different staking techniques suited to different plant types and growth habits, sharing professional tips that can be used both in your own garden and in larger planting schemes.
All materials used will be completely natural and sustainably sourced from the garden, including last year’s pruning’s from shrubs and trees. The focus will be on creating discreet, effective supports that enhance the plant’s form without drawing attention to the structure itself – a hallmark of the planting style seen throughout the Dorothy Clive Garden.
The session also includes tea and coffee on arrival, with a delicious lunch provided afterwards, giving you the chance to relax, refuel, and chat with fellow gardeners.
Please bring with you:

Warm, waterproof outdoor clothing suitable for working outside in all weather
Sturdy boots or wellies
Gardening gloves
Secateurs (clean and sharp if possible, as you will be actively cutting and shaping natural materials)

This session is ideal for gardeners looking to improve their practical skills while learning how to achieve a natural, professional finish.
The Days Schedule:
10:30-Coffee and biscuits in the Tearoom
11:00- Practical
1:00- Lunch served in the Tearoom

🕥 Time: 10:30am–1:00pm
🍽 Lunch: Included after the workshop

💷 Cost:
Members – £60.00
Non Members – £74.00
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=Dorothy+Clive+Plant+Support+Workshop

Sunday Lecture -Dispelling the Myths: An Introduction To Bats
2026-04-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Shropshire
Join Kevin Reynolds for a lively, illustrated talk that is light-hearted in places and fast-moving throughout, designed to uncover the truth behind common bat myths.
This one-hour talk explores the fascinating ecology and biology of bats, showcases the incredible diversity of species found around the world (including here in the UK), and highlights the threats bats face today. Kevin will also share practical ways we can all help to protect these remarkable mammals.
Guaranteed to challenge misconceptions and change the way you see bats forever.

Pen and Watercolour Workshop with Kate Dawes
2026-04-23 10:00 - 13:00 | Shropshire
Learn different pen drawing techniques and ‘dry’ watercolour painting to create your own botanical art.

This relaxed pen and watercolour workshop is suitable for all abilities.

Kate will be showing different pen drawing techniques and how to overlay with ‘dry’ watercolour to enhance your artwork. She will be looking more in-depth at ‘dry’ watercolour and colours in general so this workshop is suitable for both returning and new participants.

You will create an A4 botanical artwork using foliage and flowers.

Suitable for all abilities from beginners to the more experienced artist. All materials supplied. Maximum of 12 people on the workshop.
To book your place please go to –
https://katedawesstudio.com/products/pen-and-watercolour-workshop-dorothy-clive-garden-thursday-23rd-april-2026-3-hours

** please note – for non-members there is a £13 garden entrance fee or £26 annual membership, payable on the gate.

Veg Growing Workshop
2026-04-25 10:30 - 13:00 | Shropshire
Join us for an inspiring Vegetable Growing Workshop, perfect for beginners and those looking to grow with more confidence and success. This practical, hands-on session will guide you through the essentials of growing healthy, productive vegetables, whether you have a small garden, raised beds, or containers.
Led by our expert gardener, you’ll learn how to prepare soil, choose the right crops for the season, and sow seeds for the best results. The workshop will also cover plant spacing, watering, feeding, and simple techniques to keep crops healthy and productive throughout the growing season, using approaches seen in practice at the Dorothy Clive Garden.
The session includes tea and coffee on arrival, with a delicious lunch provided afterwards, giving you time to relax, ask questions, and share growing tips with fellow gardeners.
Please bring with you:

Warm, waterproof outdoor clothing suitable for working outside
Sturdy boots or wellies
Gardening gloves
Notebook and pen (optional, for jotting down tips and planting plans)

A friendly, informative workshop to help you grow your own vegetables with confidence and enjoyment.
The Days Schedule:
10:30-Coffee and biscuits in the Tearoom
11:00- Practical
1:00- Lunch served in the Tearoom

🕥 Time: 10:30am–1:00pm
🍽 Lunch: Included after the workshop

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=Dorothy+Clive+Garden+Vegetable+Growing+Event

Tree Walk with Dr Peter Thomas FLS
2026-05-03 11:30 - 12:30 | Shropshire
Join Dr Peter Thomas for a guided tour of the trees at the Dorothy Clive Garden. Peter is a Reader Emeritus in Plant Ecology at Keele University and has written a number of publications.
The guided tour will begin at 11:30AM
Cost: £5 per person
Max 25
Click the below link to book your tickets !
https://www.ticketsource.com/whats-on?q=dorothy+clive+tree+walk

Cutting Taking Workshop
2026-05-09 10:30 - 13:00 | Shropshire
Discover the satisfaction of growing new plants from existing ones in our Cutting Taking Workshop, a hands-on session ideal for gardeners of all levels. This workshop will guide you through the basics of plant propagation, helping you understand when and how to take cuttings to give them the best possible chance of success.
Led by our knowledgeable gardener, you’ll learn the difference between softwood, semi-ripe, and hardwood cuttings, which plants respond best to each method, and how to care for your cuttings as they establish strong roots. Techniques demonstrated will reflect the practical, sustainable approach used throughout the Dorothy Clive Garden.
All materials will be provided, and you’ll have the opportunity to take home your own cuttings to grow on at home.
The session includes tea and coffee on arrival, followed by a delicious lunch afterwards, allowing time to relax, ask questions, and share experiences with fellow plant lovers.
Please bring with you:

Warm, waterproof outdoor clothing suitable for outdoor work
Sturdy boots or wellies
Gardening gloves
Secateurs (clean and sharp if possible)

The Days Schedule:
10:30-Coffee and biscuits in the Tearoom
11:00- Practical (Seed Sowing)
1:00- Lunch served in the Tearoom

🕥 Time: 10:30am–1:00pm
🍽 Lunch: Included after the workshop
💷 Cost:

Members – £60.00
Non Members – £74.00
To book go to- https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on?q=dorothy+clive+cuttings+workshop

Sunday Lecture - ‘Alpines in The Wild and in Cultivation’
2026-05-10 11:00 - 13:00 | Shropshire
“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 | Shropshire
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 | Shropshire
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 | Shropshire
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!

Come and Sing- ABBA
2026-07-04 10:00 - 15:00 | Shropshire
Sing the timeless hits of ABBA with vocal leader Hannah Grace! Whether you’re a seasoned singer or just love to belt out your favorite tunes, join Hannah for a day of uplifting music, joy, and harmony. Together, we’ll transform into a choir for the day, learning iconic ABBA songs in a supportive and fun environment.
The session will include practical vocal techniques, learning harmonies and group singing. Songs will be taught gently by ear, so no experience or ability to read music is needed. Lyrics and sheet music will be provided on the day.
Young people aged 14 to 18 must be accompanied at all times by an adult who is also fully participating in the event. We regret this event is not suitable for children under 14.
To book click the below link! –
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/hannah-grace-music/t-aaalpax

Craft Fair- Special Fundraising Event
2026-07-05 08:00 - 17:00 | Shropshire
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 | Shropshire
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 | Shropshire
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.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream - Folksy Theatre
2026-07-18 18:30 - 20:30 | Shropshire
Love, laughter, and a little bit of lunacy — enter a world where fairies meddle, lovers quarrel, and magic runs wild!
This summer, join us for a breath taking open-air performance of William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy,
A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
In the heart of an enchanted forest, four young lovers flee the constraints of society and stumble into a realm ruled by mischievous fairies, feuding royalty, and a troupe of would-be actors with more enthusiasm than talent. What follows is a wild night of mistaken identities, magical transformations, and love gone deliciously wrong — enjoy Shakespeare’s dazzling verse and Folksy’s twist of live music, audience interaction and impressive multi-rolling!
Bring along your picnics & folding chairs!
Tickets are non refundable
Show goes on whatever the weather, so come prepared!
https://ticketstripe.com/events/6868108745075111
* Entry to the Garden from 5.30pm.*

Children’s Gardening Club
2026-07-21 | Shropshire
Children’s Gardening Club at Dorothy Clive Garden
Join us for three fun and hands-on mornings or afternoons exploring the wonderful world of gardening.
Across three sessions, children will learn how plants grow, discover how gardens support wildlife, and explore how food can be grown at home. Each day includes practical gardening activities in the garden and children will take home something they have planted themselves.
🌱 Day 1 – Planting & Growing
Learn how plants grow from seed to plant. Children will plant their own seeds and discover what plants need to thrive.
🐝 Day 2 – Gardening for the future
Discover how gardens help wildlife and learn about the important role bees play in our ecosystem. We’ll explore simple ways we can help the environment through gardening.
🌿 Day 3 – Field to Fork
Where does our food come from? Children will learn about growing herbs and vegetables and plant a herb to take home.
These sessions are designed to help children connect with nature, learn practical gardening skills and understand how small actions can help the environment.

Dates: 21st, 22nd & 23rd July
Session times:
10am–12pm – Ages 5–8
1pm–3pm – Ages 8–11
Price: £30 per child for the three sessions (with entry an additional add on).
Group size: Maximum 10 children per session
Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the sessions.
Led by Education Officer Hannah.

Dog Fest and Vintage and Classic Car Display
2026-08-02 10:00 - 17:00 | Shropshire
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

Children’s Book Club in the Garden
2026-08-03 10:00 - 12:00 | Shropshire
Summer Holiday Children’s Book Club in the Garden (Ages 5–8)
Join us for three enchanting mornings of storytelling and creativity in the beautiful surroundings of Dorothy Clive Garden.
Each session will focus on a different book, which we will read together before bringing the story to life through nature-based activities, garden exploration and creative art. Children will use natural materials, imagination and the garden environment to respond to the stories in fun and creative ways.
Over the three sessions we will explore:
📚 Day 1 – The Gruffalo
Discover woodland creatures and go on a Gruffalo trail through the garden.
📚 Day 2 – The Secret Garden
Explore hidden corners of the garden and create nature-inspired artwork.
📚 Day 3 – There’s a Tiger in the Garden
Let your imagination run wild as we search for magical creatures and create our own garden adventures.
The sessions will be led by our Education Officer Hannah , encouraging children to connect stories with nature while developing creativity and imagination.

Dates: Monday 3rd, Wednesday 5th & Friday 7th August
Time: 10am – 12pm
Age: 5–8 years
Price: £30 per child for all three sessions (plus entry to the garden)
Group size: Maximum 10 children
Children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the sessions

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