Garden centres are often not the first places you land upon, when thinking about things to do in autumn.
However, when the weather is dreary and you crave cosy places, you can’t beat an inviting garden centre to escape the chill.
Apart from the obvious plants and greenery that is a must for green-fingered fans, there is much to love about garden centres.
In the run up to Halloween, Bonfire Night and Christmas, garden centres can be excellent places to pick up artisan gifts, decorations and more.
In addition to doubling up as quaint shopping centres, many also have on-site cafés.
These are wonderful areas where you can hunker down after an afternoon shopping, mulling over life as you sip steaming hot chocolate, against the bustling backdrop of a busy café.
Here is our round-up of cosy garden centres with cafés to visit this autumn.
If you have recommendations we would absolutely love to hear from you. Please email [email protected] and we’ll take a look.
9. Forest Garden Centre, Fairways Garden Centre, Oddford Lane, Two Dales, Matlock DE4 2EX
This centre has a 4.5/5 rating based on 561 Google reviews. Several reviewers praise the food offering, describing it as "lovely, a real treat" offering "wonderful scones and coffee" too. | Google
10. Tansley Barn Garden Centre, Butterley Lane, Tansley, Matlock DE4 5GF
A recent reviewer said: "Good cafe serving breakfasts until 11am, a variety of hot & cold lunches, tea, coffee & delicious cake. Many Gluten Free options available too." | Google