IF a certain brewery did garden centres then they would have drawn up a blueprint based on a family-run business in the Holme Valley.
Now more and more people from Saddleworth are discovering Totties Garden Centre, just a few minutes’ drive from Holmfirth centre.
Sure, you can purchase a hanging basket, bedding plants or some hardy perennials.
But there’s more on offer at the panoramic site to wile away several hours.
There are stunning views from the terraces for starters.
And if it’s not warm enough to linger long admiring the picturesque vista, there’s a warming bistro café – the 80-cover Olive Tree – and adjoining conservatory beckoning customers inside.
Serving everything from breakfasts to afternoon teas, Sunday lunches to celebration spreads, the Olive Tree’s reputation for freshly produced, tasty food spreads far and wide.
A varied menu now includes gluten free and vegan options winning the Olive Tree a silver accolade in the 2017 ‘Free From Eating Out’ awards.
As an extra tempter, the bistro is licensed for that welcome glass of wine or bottle of ale.
There has been a nursery on the Downshutts Lane premises for 80 years though current owners Sue and Rob have been running the thriving business for four years after opting for a lifestyle change.
“It’s hard work but rewarding,” says Sue who previously worked for Hilton Worldwide.
“It’s been particularly tough this year because the winter season was so long.
“But we pride ourselves on never shutting. Even in the worst of the weather we are always open thanks to our little snow plough.”
With the Beast from the East finally back in its cage, Totties is now looking bloomin’ lovely.
“We get an awful of people through from Greenfield and Uppermill plus other customers from Mossley,” explained Sue.
“They all love sitting on the terraces or in the conservatory which has become a little community hub.
“We pride ourselves on making sure customers have a nice time.”
Totties employs around 30 staff, including four full-time chefs.
Garden centre staff have a broad horticultural knowledge in order to offer the best advice and tips.
There’s also garden maintenance staff, several with more than 20 years’ experience.
Totties, which also rears its own sheep and cattle, runs a monthly gardening club with talks from their team who also provide hanging basket demonstrations.
There are also free Saturday morning, half-hour gardening advice sessions.
“We work with the community wherever we can and support the local schools with seed so they can grow their own veg,” explained Sue.
“We have one of the widest selection of trees in the area including Christmas trees which customers can choose and see growing.”
Totties is open seven days a week, including Bank Holidays at Downshutts Lane, Totties, Holmfirth, HD9 1AU or visit their website: www.tottiesgardencentre.co.uk
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