The charming garden centre named among best in the UK with Michelin green star restaurant

Every week, the people of Surrey flock to one of the many garden centres across the county. So, it comes as some surprise that when the Daily Mail came up with a list of the UK’s best, no location in Surrey was included. But they did come very close.

In fact Petersham Nurseries, which came eighth, is listed as a Surrey Spot. While Richmond may technically be London, there is no doubt that it is conveniently located for a day trip.

And there is a lot to see. The Daily Mail gave the garden centre an overall score of 9/10, ranking it particularly highly for its restaurant and decorations, something that might prove particularly useful over the Christmas period.

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Over 20 years the Boglione family has transformed the small nursery bordering their home. The garden centre itself changes with the seasons. During winter the nurseries are full of bulbs, evergreen shrubs and plants that prefer the indoors. At the end of the season the garden is sowed with tomatoes, herbs and edible flowers, ready for the summer.

Away from gardening the lifestyle shop serves an eclectic range of gifts, furniture and antiques. A collection of carefully selected branded products sits alongside a curated range of goods gathered from shopping trips abroad.

The Daily Mail was full of praise for its workshops, held throughout the year on table decoration and making seasonal wreaths.

However, where Petersham Nurseries arguably stands out the most is with its restaurant. The Michelin Guide describes it as “a unique spot within the capital's dining scene” and awarded it a green star for the quality and sustainability of its food.

The menu takes some inspiration from Italian cuisine, but includes a range of beef cheek, beetroot wellington and guinea fowl. On this sample menu two courses are priced at £65, with three courses for £75, meaning the food is on the expensive side. However, one reviewer said it is worth it saying “yes the menu is pricey but the food was mouth wateringly delicious, inventive and fresh. I couldn't fault the experience and I am excited to return in the future.”

This is not the only eating spot. The Teahouse offers homemade cakes, breakfastand lunch. A more affordable option than the restaurant, the lunch menu also includes a range of homemade pastas and fresh salads. A well-liked afternoon tea is also served with special options for children, vegetarians and vegans

The garden centre can be found on Church Lane, off Petersham Road, Richmond, TW10 7AB. There is parking but on Sunday mornings spaces are prioritised for a church congregation.