Shopping Guide: Whitakers Garden Centre
Whitakers Garden Centre: An Informed Shopper's Guide
Why You Should Visit
From my experience, here's what makes Whitakers a compelling destination:
- Comprehensive Gardening Selection: You'll find a wide variety of plants, tools, and outdoor decor. It's a genuine one-stop shop if you prefer buying everything in one place.
- Healthy Plants and Good Stock: Shoppers can expect plants in very healthy condition, indicating good care and a well-managed nursery.
- Excellent Cafe: The cafe is a major draw. The food is consistently praised, with options like fish and chips (with beautiful fish and proper home-cooked chips), homemade cakes, and delicious meals. Breakfast is also available, with reviewers noting it's reasonable and of good quality.
- Convenient Amenities: The location offers plenty of car parking and ample space to move around, even when busy. They provide different trolleys to assist with your shopping needs. Good toilet facilities are also available.
- Helpful Staff: Expect friendly and knowledgeable staff throughout the premises. They are eager to assist, including providing empty boxes at the till to help carry plants.
- Well-Presented and Clean Environment: The entire place is well-maintained and very clean, enhancing the shopping experience.
- Afternoon Tea Experience: They have the capacity and expertise to organize events, as evidenced by a successful afternoon tea event for 40 people, with plentiful drinks and delicious, freshly prepared food.
- Various Products: Apart from garden-related items, there's stock of bird food, BBQ gear, and other garden essentials. Plus, they sell garden ornaments and furniture.
- Good Value (for some items): Some reviewers noted good prices, and that some items are not too expensive.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
Based on my observations, here are potential drawbacks to consider:
- Potentially Higher Prices: While convenient, the prices can be higher than at other stores. It's worth comparing prices, especially if you are on a budget.
- Cafe Inconsistencies (Eggs): There have been reports of issues with egg dishes in the cafe, specifically Eggs Benedict. However, it's important to remember that this was one incident.
- Lack of "Wow Factor" in Indoor Area: The main building's indoor area lacks natural light and a "wow factor" with a potentially dark interior, which could affect the overall shopping experience.
- Product Selection Concerns: Some reviewers felt the business has moved away from a focus on plants to selling similar "tat" that is sold in other stores and marked up.
- Size Comparison: Compared to some other garden centers, this one might be smaller. If a vast selection is your priority, this might be something to think about.
- Potential for Seasonality: While they have a good range, some people may find the displays a bit wanting until more displays and lighting are introduced.
