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Thompsons have only one retail garden on the Isle of Wight but they also own other garden centres in the South of England. As well as a retail site they also operate a couple of plant nurseries on the Isle of Wight which do not sell direct to the public.

Entrance to the garden centre, click to enlarge.

The plants area at Thompsons Garden Centre in Newchurch is well arranged and some centre piece beds provide interest. The paths are wide and clear with a solid, mostly concrete surface. A small area at one end is covered. Many of their plants are grown at their own nurseries (around 90%) and this ensure quality and value for money prices. They are in good condition and well displayed. Stock consists of lots of bedding plants in season with a good choice of shrubs, roses and other plants and and many ornamental and fruit trees. There are sufficient large signs to locate plant groups. Hardy plants come with a three year guarantee.

The indoor area is dominated by unsightly metal beams from the ceiling, but the sales area is kept clean. They sell gifts, cards, books, garden and conservatory furniture alongside bid care items and garden accessories. There are lots of houseplants at reasonable prices.

THE GARDEN CAFE

The cafe decor is also dominated by the large and oppressive metal girders and ventilation tubes in the roof area. The tables and chairs are plain plastic and unimaginatively arranged. However, the actual atmosphere is surprisingly pleasant and inviting. 

Hot meals are served between 9.30 to 3.00, snack meals up to 4.00 with drinks and cakes served all day. Prices are on the cheap side with main meals such as cod and chips at a very reasonable £6.40. Snack meals are also priced very well, even a cup of filter coffee costs only £1.30. Those prices represent bargains for good quality food which is cooked on the premises.

The Garden Cafe was awarded five stars (the highest possible rating) for Food Hygiene in October 2013 by the Isle of Wight Council. This is quite an achievement and beats that of many, probably most, garden centre cafes on the Isle of Wight.

Nearby garden centres and plant nurseries include Busy Bee Garden Centre, Dalverton Garden Centre,