Broomfield Hall Joins National Open Garden Scheme

Derby College’s Broomfield Hall campus is inviting visitors to see the progress already made in restoring its gardens to their former glory.

The College’s land-based industries’ campus in Morley is taking part in the National Open Garden Scheme day on Sunday May 21 between 10am and 4pm.

The day is a chance to see the campus’ 25 acres of Victorian garden and woodlands which are maintained by students and volunteers.

Visitors will be taken on guided walks to see the work undertaken and the new plant varieties now established or they can tour the grounds at their own pace – visiting the Victorian layout of walled, rose, tropical and themed gardens, lawns and woodland.

The entrance fee is £3 for adults and children are free. Proceeds will go towards a number of local charities supported by the National Open Garden Scheme. Light refreshments prepared by students will be served and the College’s plant centre will be open throughout the day.

There will also be Plant Doctor sessions with expert advice offered by Horticulture lecturers and students – including the opportunity bring in samples of plants to diagnose problems.

The gardens were created when the original hall was built in 1873 by industrialist Charles Schwind and key areas of the grounds have been restored thanks to a £4,000 grant received last year from the Stanley Smith (UK) Horticultural Trust.

Derby College Head Gardener Samantha Harvey explained: “Our students and volunteers have been working very hard to restore the gardens with a greater diversity of plants and a new rose garden at Broomfield.

“We are delighted to be part of the 90th National Open Garden Scheme as our goal is to expand our appeal as a visitor attraction and generate funds that we can re-invest into the further development of the gardens.

“Our ultimate aim is to be recognised as one of the top educational horticultural facilities available in the Midlands.”