Poplar Nurseries Garden Centre Magazine by YHG Media
ABOUT US
Poplar Nurseries has evolved to become one of the UK’s leading independent garden centres, renowned for its wide range of plants and customer service. With roots running three generations deep, Poplar’s story begins with Eric Cowan in 1938 growing seeds in Great Tey Lane. In 1947 Eric purchased the current site and was well known for growing miles and miles of sweet peas. Eric’s son Martin joined the business in 1972 to develop his passion for growing chrysanthemums and then bedding plants and hanging baskets in the 1980’s, which were delivered to pubs and hotels from London to Norwich as a call for the service grew.
Matthew, Martin’s youngest son joined him in 1998 and became MD in 2010, growing the business for the 3rd generation. Mandy, Matthew’s wife started a small Farm Shop within the garden centre in 2010 which was then relocated to a brand new purpose built 3,000 square foot Food Hall in March 2021, offering a huge variety of locally sourced and homemade produce to satisfy increased demand.
Our Poplar elephant has become something of a landmark in Marks Tey, particularly in the winter when he freezes. Named Eric (after Martin’s father), he is located at the front of the garden centre and regularly makes it into the national newspapers. Eric is made of bronze and is part of a range of finely detailed, realistic, life-size bronze animal statues.
At Poplar Nurseries you will find a variety of seasonally changing plants for the home and garden. From shrubs, perennials, and other garden plants to a stunning range of indoor plants, we strive to keep our displays looking at their very best at all times.
Our horticultural staff are passionate about plants and are able to offer help and advice when needed. If we don’t have the plant you desire in stock, then our friendly team will endeavour to obtain it for you.
Seasonal Ready-Planted Baskets & Containers
Our seasonal ready-planted hanging baskets and patio containers are available in a range of different sizes and colour combinations. From spring right through to winter you can create a splash of colour and interest to your garden, be it large or small.
GARDENING
We offer a diverse range of garden maintenance tools, equipment and garden care essentials from well-loved brands so that you can be sure you have everything you need to create your dream garden space. Whether you are looking to get digging, plant seeds or nurture your lawn into tip top condition, we have something for every task. Once all the jobs are complete you can add some carefully chosen decorative pieces such as a garden statue, an eyecatching water feature or maybe some baskets and pots to make beautiful patio displays.
OUTDOOR LIVING
Create your perfect outdoor living space with our vast selection of garden furniture, barbecues, wood fired ovens, fire pits and patio heaters. Find the perfect dining set, sofa set or other furniture from trusted names including Alexander Rose and Nova or indulge in alfresco dining with a top of the range gas or charcoal barbecue from LeisureGrow, Weber, KamadoJoe and other top rated brands.
Our expert staff are always available to offer advice and assistance on all of your Outdoor Living requirements!
HOMEWARE
Browse our Homeware department where you will find seasonal ranges of beautiful home décor items and accessories to complete the interior of your home. Our home selections also make the perfect gift and include home fragrance, artificial floristry, kitchenware and much more.
GIFTWARE
Visit our Gift shop for ideas and inspiration when looking for something special for loved ones and friends. Our displays change continuously throughout the seasons to ensure that our customers always have an enjoyable shopping experience.
Elsewhere in the garden centre you will also find gifts for gardeners as well as a vast range of pet products so you can ensure that your furry friends aren’t left out.
RESTAURANT
Our restaurant overlooks the children’s play area, gardens and Miniature Railway and is a beautiful place to stop and relax over coffee or lunch. As well as indoor seating it also offers seating outside or in our spacious conservatory. We serve breakfast, lunch and a huge selection of homemade cakes to have with a cup of tea or coffee
Afternoon Tea is a customer favourite, but please do bear in mind that this needs to be pre-booked at least twenty-four hours in advance.
Our menu changes seasonally, offering a wide selection of homemade dishes using local produce and our chefs also create daily specials, allowing them to showcase their talents.
FOOD HALL
Explore our 3,000 square foot Food Hall where you will discover delicious local and British produce and enjoy delightful flavour sensations. Supporting local producers in the surrounding areas, our Food Hall offers everything from fresh, seasonal fruit and vegetables to a variety of goods from small batch British food and drink suppliers. Our deli counter offers a range of home cooked dishes as well as a mouth watering range of cheeses, fresh fish and other fine foods.
Bespoke Catering
Our Food Hall now also offers bespoke catering for special events such as small weddings, corporate events, or private parties.
Examples of what we offer include grazing and cheese boards, fresh fish platters, salads and desserts.
Please contact Mandy Cowan by calling 01206 210 374 or emailing enquiries@poplarnurseries.co.uk to discuss your requirements.
MINIATURE RAILWAY
Our Poplar Miniature Railway has become a firm favourite with families of all ages. Created ten years ago to compliment our gardens, the train gently winds its way around Orchard Curve, through the new tunnel, Cottage Crossing and Folly Bank, taking three minutes to complete the circuit. Suitable for visitors of all ages but especially for young children, our railway runs for 350 yards from the station in front of the play area.
The railway is open everyday from 10am to 4pm, weather permitting. Our dedicated Poplar Miniature Railway Facebook page posts regular weather updates and railway news.
Kids Activities
As well as our Children’s Play Area and Miniature Railway, we also run a fun range of drop-in craft activities and themed trails during school holidays.
Our Gardening Club meets once a month in our restaurant with guest speakers, competitions, seasonal social events, day trips and an annual five day holiday visiting various gardens around the country!
As well as our vast garden centre our site here at Poplar Nurseries also features many concessions catering for a large number of requirements, from garden machinery through to garden buildings and even haircuts. Please visit our website for further information.
