Glorious sight as Clumber Spaniels hold annual gathering in Clumber Park
A day of celebration included more than 60 Clumber Spaniels visiting their ancestral home at Clumber Park yesterday, June 14, for the annual Walking with Clumbers' gathering.
Owners and dogs travelled from all over the UK for the occasion, which this year included a commemorative tree planting at The Kennels in Hardwick village, and the unveiling of a new interpretation on the Ornamental Bridge, to honour the deep connection between this much-loved breed of dog, and the place that gave it its name.
The full origins of the breed are uncertain. One possibility is that the breed came from France during the French Revolution, when the Duc de Noailles reportedly gave his kennel of prized spaniels to his friend the 2nd Duke of Newcastle.
The earliest known depiction of the breed is in the painting ‘The Return from Shooting’ by Francis Wheatley in 1788. Clumber House is in the distance with the Ornamental Bridge to the left of the painting.
Historically, the Clumber Spaniel was bred at the kennels at Clumber Park, and prior to hunts on the estate, the dogs were rounded up at either side of the bridge.
The Walking with Clumbers group has been established for 11 years and is run by Barbara and Rod Weston, who have a 14 year old Clumber Spaniel named Chloe.
Members meet regularly elsewhere, but Clumber Park remains at the heart of the group, that supports the park by fundraising.
In 2025, the park launched a special Clumber Spaniel pin badge with all proceeds supporting the bridge.
Earlier this year, a Clumber Spaniel named Bruin was crowned Best in Show at the 2026 Crufts dog show.