Fern Britton to Judge Dog Show at Caerhays Summer Fete

Smashing plates, circus tricks and a celebrity dog show judge. There are worse ways to spend a Sunday in June.

The popular Summer Fete is returning to the grounds of Caerhays Castle on Sunday 14th June, raising money this year for the Merlin Centre, Cornwall’s Neuro Therapy Centre. Gates open at 10am, with £5 entry, free entry for under 16s and free parking.

From 10am the historic estate will be given over to a day of family entertainment, with activities spread across the Caerhays grounds. Visitors can expect live performances, children’s activities, local makers, food and plenty of chances to get involved.

Lucinda Rimmington, Marketing Manager of Caerhays Estate, said: “We invite everyone to join us for this much-loved family fun day at Caerhays. This year’s Summer Fete is set to be our biggest and best yet, with so much for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Whether you fancy learning some circus skills, entering your dog into our fun dog show, browsing our fantastic craft stalls or simply sitting back and soaking up the atmosphere, there really is something for everyone.”

A famous face on the day

There will be a special VIP guest at this year’s fete. Broadcaster and author Fern Britton is joining the festivities to judge the much-loved Dog Show from 12.30pm.

Fern, who the organisers say is delighted to be supporting both the event and the Merlin Centre, will also visit the Festival of Flowers. She will then draw the winning raffle tickets at around 3.30pm to round off the day.

What’s on

There is a packed programme to work through. Visitors can have a go at learning new circus skills and take part in activities for all ages, while younger guests are kept busy with children’s entertainment.

For anyone who fancies letting off some steam, there is even the chance to smash a few plates.

Artisan makers and craft stalls will be on hand for browsing local products and gifts, and a range of food stands and refreshments will keep the whole family fed through the day.

Raising money for the Merlin Centre

This year’s fete is supporting the Merlin Centre, Cornwall’s Neuro Therapy Centre.

Adele Carter, Income Generation Lead at the Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been chosen as the charity beneficiary for the 2026 Caerhays Summer Fete and are hugely grateful to the organisers and everyone supporting the event. The generosity and community spirit behind occasions like this play a crucial role in sustaining our work, enabling us to support individuals and families across Cornwall affected by neurological conditions. It promises to be a wonderful family day out in one of Cornwall’s most beautiful settings, and we are very much looking forward to being part of it.”

Lucinda added: “The Summer Fete is always such a special day in the Caerhays calendar. Families can spend the whole day here enjoying themselves while helping raise money for an incredibly worthwhile cause. We’re delighted to be supporting the Merlin Centre this year and hope as many people as possible will come along.”

How to go

The Caerhays Summer Fete takes place on Sunday 14th June from 10am. Entry is £5, under 16s go free, and parking is free. More details are available on the Caerhays visitor website.