DCG’s Broomfield Hall set for a weekend of dogs, rare plants and family fun this July

Broomfield Hall in Morley, Ilkeston, the historic campus of Derby College Group (DCG), will open its gates to the public for a bumper summer weekend featuring the Dog Festival on Saturday 4th July and the Rare Plant Fair and Open Gardens on Sunday 5th July.

Both events are set within the college’s stunning grounds and offer something for everyone, from tail-wagging fun with four-legged friends to rare botanical discoveries across 25 acres of developing historical gardens.

Dog Festival, Saturday 4th July, 11 am to 2 pm (free entry)

The Dog Festival is a free family day out packed with activities for dogs and their owners alike. A highlight of the day is the dog show, with six fun categories for entrants of all breeds, ages and sizes:

• Loveliest Lady
• Handsomest Boy
• Scruffiest Mutt
• Best Paw Shake
• Cutest Puppy
• Golden Oldie (8 years and over)

Entry costs £2 per category or £5 for three entries, with entries taken at the Dog Grooming Stall. The deadline for entries is 12pm, with the show starting at 12:30pm. Rosettes are awarded to all category winners.

Visitors can also try their hand on the have-a-go agility course, browse a selection of charity and craft stalls, and soak up the summer atmosphere. Car parking is available on site at £3 per vehicle. To keep traffic flowing safely, parking on the main road is not permitted.

Rare Plant Fair and Open Gardens, Sunday 5th July, 10am to 4pm

On Sunday, Broomfield Hall turns its attention to the plant world, welcoming growers and garden lovers to the Rare Plant Fair. Visitors can browse and buy from a wide variety of extraordinary plants, including:

• Tropical plants
• Cacti and succulents
• Carnivorous plants
• Alpines
• And many more specialist varieties

Alongside the plant sales, visitors are invited to explore 25 acres of developing historical and educational gardens, browse craft stalls and enjoy light refreshments throughout the day.

Tickets are £5 per person, with children admitted free. Tickets are available on the door by cash or card. Most garden areas are accessible to wheelchair users, and staff will be on hand throughout the day to assist visitors.

“Broomfield Hall is a truly special place, and these two events give our local communities the chance to experience it at its very best. The grounds are beautiful, the atmosphere is relaxed, and there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re coming with your dog, your family or your passion for plants, we’d love to see you there.”
Jon Collins, Vice Principal

Event details at a glance

Dog Festival
Saturday 4th July 2026, 11am to 2pm
Broomfield Hall, Morley, Ilkeston, DE7 6DN
Free admission. Car parking £3.

Rare Plant Fair and Open Gardens
Sunday 5th July 2026, 10am to 4pm
Broomfield Hall, Morley, Ilkeston, DE7 6DN
Tickets £5, children free. Available on the door