Hanleys: A Shopper's Guide

Why You Should Visit

• A Gardener's Paradise: You'll find an extensive selection of plants, with an emphasis on quality and presentation. The plant area is beautifully laid out and well-maintained, offering a diverse range including variegated plants and specific varieties like Adansonii Mint and Monstera Thai Constellation. Expect a large variety, including plants in good condition, nicely displayed. The covered layout is a significant advantage, making it a pleasure to visit regardless of the weather.
• Comprehensive Garden Needs: The location offers a true one-stop shopping experience for all things garden-related. Shoppers can expect to find everything from plants, shrubs, and pots to garden features, outdoor seating, and garden ornaments, including sheds and fences. You can also find a selection of mats, cards, books, and more.
• Aquarium Enthusiast's Haven: If you're into aquariums or aquascaping, this is a must-visit. You'll find a dedicated area for fish and aquarium supplies. The staff is known for their expertise and commitment to customer service, offering advice and often having or being able to source specific fish.
• Outdoor Living Essentials: Hanleys caters to outdoor living with an assortment of furniture and related items. You can explore options for creating comfortable and stylish outdoor spaces. They also have high quality log cabins at the back of the garden center.
• Helpful and Friendly Staff: Shoppers consistently report positive interactions with the staff, describing them as lovely and helpful. Some staff members, like Sam and Wendy, receive specific praise for their excellent customer service.
• Convenient Shopping Experience: There's plenty of parking. The shop is laid out well, providing easy access to various departments, with indoor and outdoor shopping areas.
• Online Shopping with Reliable Customer Service: If you choose to shop online, be assured that the staff is known for quick resolutions to any issues. They quickly resolve problems, as replacements can be arranged with no issues.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Axolotl Concerns: Be aware that there are serious concerns regarding the welfare of axolotls at this location. Reports indicate that the animals are kept in poor conditions, with insufficient food and visible injuries, and that the owner has provided false information when confronted. This might make you uncomfortable as an informed consumer.
• Inconsistent Plant Quality: While the plants are generally of good quality, there have been reports of plant discrepancies after purchase. Some plants of the same type planted simultaneously have performed differently, leading to dissatisfaction and issues in getting a satisfactory outcome.
• Potential for Delivery Issues: Although the staff provides excellent service, delivery service issues have been experienced. There have been reports of incorrect deliveries and a lack of communication from the delivery company.
• Disappointing Customer Service (Past): Customer satisfaction may not always be consistent. A customer complaint went unresolved and was not handled satisfactorily, despite the customer not seeking a full refund, leaving the shopper with a negative impression.
• No Discounts on Imperfect Plants: Be aware that you will not always have the chance to get a discount on plants that are not in great condition.
• Cafe is Gone: There used to be a popular café (Jam Cafe), but it is no longer available.