A well-known garden center in Preston, Barton Grange Garden Centre, has been recognized as the top garden center in the UK. The prestigious title was awarded at the ‘Garden Centre of the Year’ competition organized by the Garden Centre Association, beating out 200 other competitors nationwide.
Having opened its doors to plant enthusiasts in 1963, Barton Grange Garden Centre has a history of success, having now won the award six times. Customers have lauded the center for its vast size and wide range of products, making it a destination where one can easily spend an entire day.
The center’s primary attraction is its expansive gardening section, offering a five-year guarantee on robust plants, a key draw for serious gardeners seeking quality assurance for their purchases. Additionally, the farm shop boasts an array of goods from local butchers to freshly squeezed orange juice and cheese, conveniently located near the culinary shop featuring renowned brands like Emma Bridgewater and Le Creuset.
Visitors can also enjoy dining options at the Riverside café for breakfast and lunch, or at the Willows restaurant for afternoon tea. The Full English breakfast, a popular choice, includes Althams Cumberland sausages, bacon, hash browns, tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans, and toast.
Furthermore, Barton Grange hosts various events ranging from painting and weaving to calligraphy and candle-making, with special festive activities during Christmas. This year, a new addition will be Santa’s grotto, allowing children to meet Father Christmas and create their own toy in his Toy Workshop before indulging in a Christmas dinner at the on-site restaurant.
The garden center has garnered positive online reviews, with visitors praising the events and services offered, making it a worthwhile family outing. The Topping family, who owned the center, recently sold it to Blue Diamond, leaving questions as to whether the new ownership can maintain its legacy of excellence in the garden center industry.