Business Details
Your Premier Garden Destination in Chelmsford
At Butts Green Garden Centre & Cafe, we are dedicated to providing an exceptional selection of plants, food, and gifts in a tranquil setting. Established in the heart of Chelmsford, Essex, our business combines a vibrant garden centre with a homely cafe that prides itself on homemade cakes and locally sourced ingredients. Our team, led by owner Lisa Manley since 2014, is committed to creating a welcoming environment where customers can find inspiration for their outdoor spaces and enjoy quality time with family and friends.We offer a wide range of perennials, shrubs, and bedding plants, alongside a carefully curated gift tunnel featuring unique homeware and gardening essentials. Our cafe stands out for its dedication to baking everything on-site, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors seeking fresh, seasonal fare. With convenient access near the A12, we serve both local residents and visitors to the area, striving to exceed expectations through attentive service and a passion for horticulture and hospitality.
Services
Garden Centre
Cafe
Outside Catering
Gift Tunnel
Homeware & Gifts
Gardening Equipment
Pots & Ornaments
Plant Sales
Gift Cards
Event Concessions
Highlights and features
- We offer a wide selection of perennials and shrubs curated by experienced horticulturists
- Our cafe bakes all cakes and pastries fresh on-site daily
- We provide tailored gardening advice to suit local Chelmsford conditions
- Our gift tunnel features unique homeware sourced from trusted UK suppliers
- We operate a sustainable business model with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients
What people say
Superb and very kind service
Delicious cake and fabulous coffee
Friendly and helpful staff
Tranquil destination with great gifts
Excellent catering options
Services
Garden Centre
Our garden centre offers a comprehensive selection of plants including David Austin roses, evergreen shrubs, perennials, and seasonal bedding. Specialising in hard-to-find varieties, we provide expert advice on plant care and garden design. The centre also features garden statues, water features, and essential gardening tools for both amateur and professional gardeners.
Cafe
The cafe serves homemade cakes, pastries, and seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Offering indoor and outdoor seating, we cater to breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea requirements. Our vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options ensure dietary needs are accommodated in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
Outside Catering
We provide bespoke catering services for events ranging from office lunches to private celebrations. Our menus feature seasonal British produce with options for buffets, afternoon teas, and special dietary requirements. The team delivers and sets up all catering equipment to ensure seamless event execution at your chosen location.
Gift Tunnel
The gift tunnel showcases curated homeware, cards, and decorative items from trusted UK brands. Stock changes regularly to include contemporary designs and seasonal products. We offer gift wrapping services and speciality items like candles, ornaments, and framed prints inspired by natural landscapes.
Gardening Equipment
We stock essential gardening tools, compost, fertilisers, and planting equipment from trusted brands like Westland and Durston. The range includes planters, obelisks, and water features to enhance outdoor spaces. Our knowledgeable staff provide expert advice on product selection for both small gardens and larger landscaping projects.
People
Lisa Manley
Owner
Lisa Manley has led Butts Green Garden Centre & Cafe since 2014, combining her passion for horticulture with hospitality. With extensive experience in retail management, she focuses on maintaining high-quality plant stock and exceptional customer service. Lisa oversees all operations while ensuring the business maintains its commitment to local sourcing and sustainability.
Questions
What are your opening hours?
We are open Monday-Saturday 9:30am-4pm and Sundays 10am-4pm. Hot food served until 3pm.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide bespoke catering for events including office lunches, afternoon teas, and private celebrations.
Are there vegetarian/vegan options available?
Our cafe offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options daily.
Can I order plants online?
While we don't have an online shop, you can contact us directly to discuss plant orders and delivery options.
Do you host events at the garden centre?
We welcome event concessions and collaborate with small businesses for art displays and seasonal projects.
Is there parking available?
Yes, we have ample free parking space for visitors at our Sandon location.
