With summer (almost, let’s be fair) in full swing and the weather warming up, there is no better time to revamp your outdoor spaces or simply enjoy a relaxed afternoon out.
But with so many options across the region, where do you find the best quality blooms, the tastiest homemade scones, or the most knowledgeable staff?
We asked Yorkshire Evening Post readers on our Facebook page to name the absolute best garden centres and nurseries in Leeds and the surrounding areas that are well worth a trip this season- and I’m going to be packing hayfever tablets to visit many of them.
Might we suggest that other sufferers do the same and not brave it?
From massive destination centres with on-site cafes to traditional, no-nonsense hidden gems, here are the top 19 spots our readers insist you need to visit
1. Lumby Garden Centre & Coffee Shop (South Milford)
By far the most recommended spot on our list, this independent, family-run business has won an army of loyal fans for its welcoming atmosphere. Reader Matt Thompson named it "hands down the best family-run garden centre for an afternoon," praising the "lovely terrace and cosy café to enjoy a cup of tea and a scone."📍 South Milford, Leeds, LS25 5JU | Google Street View
2. Tingley Garden Centre (Morley)
A massive local favourite for a complete day out. Readers suggest heading here to browse a spectacular selection of indoor and outdoor plants, followed by a top-tier lunch at their popular on-site restaurant. 📍 Thorpe Lane, Tingley, Accent, WF3 1SL
3. Otley Garden Centre (Otley)
Perfect for a summer drive out to the market town, this highly rated centre is celebrated by readers like Pam Prim Phillips for offering a brilliant mix of plants alongside "a cafe and a few boutique shops too." 📍 Where: Pool Road, Otley, LS21 1DY | Viking Engineering and Repower/Google
4. Tong Garden Centre (Bradford/Leeds Border)
One of the biggest independent garden centres in the North, Tong remains a massive draw for families across Leeds who love its sprawling layouts, massive gift shops, and excellent play areas. 📍 Where: Tong Lane, Bradford, BD4 0PS
5. Selby Garden Centre (Selby)
Reader Nicky Ward highly recommends making the short trip here, noting it offers "lots and lots to choose from, from plants, gifts, clothing, pet toys, and even fish!" It also features a massive restaurant with dedicated indoor tables where you can sit with your dog. 📍 Hull Road, Osgodby, Selby, YO8 5HG | Tripadvisor
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6. Knaresborough Garden Centre (Knaresborough)
If you fancy a summer day trip out into North Yorkshire, Janet Roberts insists this spot is well worth a visit. "Newly extended, it is vast and well stocked with plants and garden paraphernalia," she says, adding that the on-site Lime Tree Cafe is an absolute must-visit. 📍 Boroughbridge Road, Knaresborough, HG5 0LZ | Google Street View