IT might not sound like the most thrilling destination for kids, but I spent my childhood exploring one of the UK’s fanciest garden centres.
Growing up in the Cotswolds, it meant my local one was the Burford Garden Centre.
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Its been open since 1975, and is still family owned and run.
Across the 21,000sqm estate is more than just a garden centre (although that is also extremely extensive, selling everything from flowers to trees that cost as much as £7k).
There is also an on-site bookshop, as well as shops selling clothing, food and interiors, and even artwork.
Expect some of the fancier brands, such as Barbour and Le Creuset on the shelves.
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There are “Bulb Markets” to stock up on flowers in the spring time.
The onsite cafe and bakery is a must visit too.
The Glasshouse Cafe feels more like a chic European eatery, with wicker shades and palm trees across.
Make sure to grab a giant scone – so delicious we even ordered a batch for my sister’s wedding.
It even has events including stitching classes, rare book courses and fish mornings.
But my favourite time to visit is Christmas, as the exhibits are spectacular.
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There are hundreds of kinds of baubles, Christmas light-clad trees everywhere and even grottos.
Owner Nigel Johnson told the FT that when they opened 50 years ago, the Cotswolds was a “sleepy place”.
He added that they were inspired by France and wanted to bring “some theatre into it”.
It’s not just me who loves it – Beyonce and Jay Z were rumoured to have been spotted there earlier this month
And other nearby celebrity locals, such as Kate Moss and the Beckhams, have been spotted in previous years.
Other visitors have agreed with me as well.
One wrote: “This is my favourite garden centre ever, the Harrods of garden centres.”
Another said: “All other garden centres have been spoiled for me. None of them measure up to Burford.
“I strongly recommend paying a visit in the lead up to Christmas.”
If you want to explore the rest of Burford, I’ve shared my top tips.
And here is a Cotswolds town named the Queen of the Cotswolds.
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