EMAIL: manager@derbygardencentre.co.uk

Blue Diamond acquired the Derby Garden Centre in 2008 from Gardens of Excellence. In 2013 it was the 55th largest garden centre in the UK with an estimated turnover of £5.45 million up around £1 million on the previous year.

Derby Garden Centre

This is another up market garden centre from the Blue Diamond group and the format is similar to other garden centres in the same chain. The layout inside and out is modern and unlike a traditional garden centre. It's more in line with a small department store although the goods sold tend to more gimmicky rather than utility.

The plants area has an extensive covered area and the plants are all in good condition however they are all bought in from other growers. The main emphasis is on the inside area which sells an extensive choice of garden furniture, gifts, books, clothes, gardening accessories and a whole pile more. Prices are undoubtedly on the high side for what is being sold. Most items can be bought significantly cheaper in nearby garden centres and stores.

The most popular concession at this garden centre is probably the Brown and Green food hall. The choice of meats, cheeses, fresh breads, vegetables and lots of deli items is extensive. Expensive again, but it all does look and taste very good.

THE CLOCKTOWER CAFE

A rather sterile environment, clean, tidy and modern though, is our first impression of this cafe. Expensive is the word that stands out for this cafe given the food and service they offer. The food quality is slightly above average but appearance above taste seems the major consideration.

They serve breakfasts, lunches (main meals, salads, snack meal), a variety of cakes teas, coffees and snacks.

Other garden centres nearby include Lanes Garden Centre with a farm for young children to explore, Collyer's Nurseries which is family run and Swakestone Nursery.