EMAIL: info@fairwaysgardencentre.co.uk

The Plumbly family own and run Fairways Garden Centres with Ashbourne being the largest of two and the Macclesfield branch being the smaller. The Ashbourne garden centre was set up in 1998 on, what was at the time, a pick and grow fruit farm dating back many years. They now grow almost no plants on site, all being bought in from other nurseries.

The plants are in good condition and well displayed as you would expect from a largish garden centre. They come with a two year hardy plant guarantee. The choice is good with most common varieties being sold. Specialist areas include a large number of climbing plants and roses including the more expensive David Austen varieties. Inside they sell gifts, cards, bird care, clothes, toys, garden, conservatory and indoor furniture (on the first floor). Conservatory furniture is supplied by Daro and the choice is particularly good.

The Food Hall does a good job of selling local produce but prices are on the high side. A butchers, cheeses, pies and other deli items are all on offer as is a range of frozen meals. The Cook Shop sells up market cooking accessories. There is a good choice of house plants on display with many of them being the ever popular orchids. All house plants are bussed in direct from Holland weekly.

THE

GARDEN ROOM CAFE AT FAIRWAYS
This is a large cafe on the first floor (fully accessible by wheelchair users) with room for 200 seats and has excellent views of the the local countryside. Spacious, airy and modern is the best way to describe the seating area. The food is prepared on site and uses local produce wherever possible. Breakfasts, lunch (Sunday roast) and snacks are served in addition to well-displayed cakes and a choice of coffees and teas. Prices are high but the quality of the food is undeniably good.

The Food Hall was awarded the top five star rating for food hygiene in July 2008 and the Garden Cafe was also awarded five stars in January 2014.

Other garden centres nearby include Meynell Langley Gardens who grow many of the plants on their own site.