We visit Birmingham hidden gem nestled near Cadbury World - rated one of UK's best with dazzling Christmas section

A hidden gem nestled within the historic Bournville Village Trust; Bournville Garden Centre has been recognised by a national newspaper as one of the top 25 garden centres in the UK.

The store, which belongs to the UK’s largest family-run garden centre group, British Centres impressed the national publication with its unique blend of rich history, diverse plant selection, and commitment to providing a delightful shopping experience.

We headed there for the first time - with the Christmas section in mind.

It’s nestled in Bournville village, near to Cadbury World - and if you weren’t looking for it you’d miss it.

Originally established by Cadbury to encourage employee vegetable gardening, Bournville Garden Centre has evolved into a thriving hub for plant enthusiasts and home gardeners in its local community.

With a wide range of plants, from classic favourites to rare and exotic species, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice green thumb, the knowledgeable staff is always on hand to offer expert advice and recommendations.

But for us it was the cutesy Christmas section that really got us feeling excited. There are rows and rows of little festive trinkets and we managed to pick up some additions to our ‘special’ Christmas baubles collection.

There’s a cafe too. Which is handy when you’ve got the kids with you and they need to stop for a snack and the toilet. Is it just me or is a trip to the garden centre a really nice day out?

Bournville Garden Centre has transformed into a magical winter wonderland as the Christmas season approaches. Adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, the centre offers a delightful shopping experience for Christmas gifts, decorations, and plants.

Amy Stubbs, of British Garden Centres said:“Being named one of the UK's top 25 garden centres is a testament to Bournville Garden Centre's commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The centre's dedication to providing a unique and enjoyable shopping experience has earned it a loyal following of local and visiting customers and caught the eye of the national press.”

It’s located near to Selly Manor, a 500-year-old house, so you could easily fit in some other must-visits nearby to complete the day - don’t forget Cadbury World.

The Bournville Garden Centre is the smallest of the British Garden Centres chain but it has a rich history

The Daily Mail rated it as one of the top 25:

Plant selection: 8/10 – Like all British Garden Centres, there is a wide range of plants divided into handy sections including ‘Shrubbery’, ‘Rockery’ and ‘Edibles’.

Houseplant selection: 8/10 – Wellbeing is the focus of the indoor plants and containers on offer.

Other items for sale: 7/10 – Home, gifts and pets are all catered for alongside gardening clobber.

Coffee shop: 8/10 – A cosy traditional café serving hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and hot meals.

Overall score: 8/10

Address: Maple Rd, Bournville, Birmingham B30 2AE