Ruth Parker
Garden Centre Manager
Located just outside Hinckley in the heart of Leicestershire, Woodlands Nursery and Garden Centre is one of the best known garden centres in the Midlands. It began life as a nursery in 1978, growing bedding plants and tomatoes and producing, at the height of its capacity, 4 million rooted cuttings a year. Justly famous, it now grows some 45,000 poinsettias a year and continues to provide top quality plants for the centre and the garden centre industry.
Three times winner of the Garden Centre Association's 'Garden Centre of Excellence', the centre now occupies 18 acres of immaculately tended grounds and is staffed by more than 150 loyal, helpful and knowledgeable members of staff, one of whom has been with the centre for nearly 30 years!
Whilst the emphasis remains on growing stock and gardening products, Woodlands has developed into a 'destination' centre that also offers a great day out for all the family. A vast range of leisure, home, giftware products and cards is complemented by a wonderful restaurant selling delicious home-made lunches and snacks.
There is also a pet department at the centre that sells a comprehensive range of dog, cat and small animal products, as well as poultry care and food products. Links with the local community are strong and regular events to promote all aspects of gardening remain ever popular with expert and amateur gardeners alike.
The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew is one of the world's leading botanic gardens. Explore glasshouses and landscapes, climb to the treetops, delve into the rainforest and discover 250 years of history at this famous garden. This trip also includes a 40 minute guided land train tour at the gardens.
This world-class garden offers richly planted borders, outstanding rose gardens, woodland walks, water features and a stunning, contemporary glasshouse full of tropical plants, cacti and orchids. Internationally feted, Wisley remains the flagship garden of the RHS.
Chatsworth House is one of England's iconic stately homes. A monument to good taste and home to the Dukes of Devonshire, it is known as the 'Palace of the Peak'. Magnificent architecture, a world class library and a distinguished art collection are enhanced during the festive period with elaborate decorations. The day's itinerary will also include entry into the Christmas market with more than 100 stalls offering inspiration for festive gifts.
