Ambleside Garden Centre

This is one of the most diverse garden centres I’ve come across. There’s a great outside area that is literally cluttered with plants, from fruit growing to small indoor varieties. I bought a Chinese lantern plant from here, which kept me great company in my first year at University (until I forgot to water it and it died).
As well as plants, Ambleside sells aquatic pets at great prices. I have a tropical tank at home, and many of the fish I’ve bought originated from here. They also sell little terrapins in store, which I’m always tempted to purchase.
Ambleside is the home of Earlswood cheese, which can be found at Moseley Farmers Market. They have a much wider selection here, and sell my favourite the Warwickshire Truckle. Other delicatessen-​type food can be bought from the garden centre too. It is a little pricey, but tastes delicious.
At the back of Ambleside, you’ll find a café/​restaurant serving a wide range of herbal teas, coffees, cakes and snacks. Again, the café is a little costly, but you’ll definitely be tempted to try something different, because the menu is very unusual. I bought a cup of Buddha’s Eyebrow tea from here once. It was quite peculiar! Of a night, the café opens out into a restaurant. I am yet to sample the evening menu here, but I do intend to very soon.
On your way out, you’ll pass the counter, and you might end up missing the friendly dog that lives here if he’s sleeping. He is great with kids and gets very excited to greet new people, which adds an extra memorable touch to this garden centre.