Thame Out The complimentary magazine for the Thame area
A garden centre of delights
Haddenham Garden Centre is a family run business, and it is growing. Deborah Rogers pays a visit.
Established over 40 years ago, Haddenham Garden Centre is run by a third generation of the Hawkins family.
Stephen, Kate and Ben, who along with parents Chris and Margaret pass on their undoubted knowledge, enthusiasm and years of experience to their customers.
The Garden Centre’s stunning re-development is nearing completion. Increasing in size to accommodate even more food, drink, clothing, gifts, haberdashery, pet supplies, garden furniture and of course horticultural products.
As the name implies, Haddenham Garden Centre has always been and will always be the home of everything for the garden (seeds, plants, shrubs, water features, garden furniture and so on). The huge outdoor area for plants has been extended to include an impressive interior plant area protected by a stunning wooden canopy.
Interestingly, the plants are arranged by colour. The ‘Year of Colour’ theme helps customers to design their garden.
A big bright and airy Farmshop houses a local butchers (Beef Olive). Stocking top quality local meats that have been traditionally reared and properly hung for the best flavour. Homemade sausages, skewers and other treats are waiting for your summer BBQ. The Farm shop is also home to a well stocked delicatessen featuring local and regional artisan food and drink. You will find award winning cheeses, home-cooked meats, a selection of olives, seasonal salads and snacks. Also available are some excellent local beers, ciders and wine. plus fresh bread, pastries, biscuits and cakes.
Larder essentials such as pickles, chutneys, jams and chocolates can be found on the grocery shelves.
Some newly installed freezers are full of premium ready meals, sweets, canapes and party food by the ever popular ‘Cook’ and ‘Field Fare’ companies.
Finally on the food front, the popular restaurant is increasing in size and choices on the menu and will soon benefit from an outdoor eating area.
The pet supplies area has also increased in size. Look out for the brilliant dog treat ‘pick & mix’.
New to Haddenham Garden Centre is The Works. Great value good quality stationary items, art and craft materials, hobby items and toys. Mums might have a problem dragging the kids away.
The famous Edinburgh Woollen Mill is another addition. A super selection of ladies and mens clothing and accessories.
Joules is a new addition to the Haddenham Garden Centre’s clothing department
One thing that hasn’t changed is the super selection of greetings cards and gift ideas. Home ware products by Sophie Allport are a very welcome addition.
Expert help and advice is always on hand whether your query is on horticulture, pet food, butchery, deli products, gifts, clothing …. simply ask.
Haddenham Garden Centre still has plants at its roots, but is now branching out into some new exciting areas. Put aside plenty of time when you visit, there is a lot to discover.
You can read more articles like this one in the latest edition of Thame Out.
